Page:Our Indian Army.djvu/638

614 diately ordered them to be silenced by a few rounds from our heavy guns, which advanced to an open space in front of the village. The fire was instantly returned by that of nearly the whole of the enemy's field-artillery, thus exposing the position of his guns, which the jungle had hitherto concealed.

"It was now evident that the enemy intended to fight, and would probably advance his guns so as to reach the encampment during the night.

"I therefore drew up in order of battle: Sir Walter Gilbert's division on the right, flanked by Brigadier Pope's brigade of cavalry, which I strengthened by the 14th Light Dragoons, well aware that the enemy was strong in cavalry upon his left. To this were attached three troops of Horse Artillery, under Lieutenant-Colonel Grant. The heavy guns were in the centre.

"Brigadier-General Campbell's division formed the left, flanked by Brigadier White's brigade of cavalry, and three troops of Horse Artillery, under Lieutenant-Colonel Brind. The field-batteries were with the infantry divisions."

Thus far Lord Gough states the order of attack; and from other authorities we now continue the narrative of the battle.

After a cannonade which lasted between one and two hours, the left division were directed to make a flank movement, in advance; but on reaching the enemy's guns, they were met by such a tremendous fire that they were obliged to retire with severe loss. As soon as it was known that the 3rd and 4th brigades were engaged, the 5th was sent against the centre of what was supposed to be the enemy's line, and advanced under Brigadier Mountain, through the jungle, in the face of a storm, first of round-shot, then grape, and lastly musketry, which mowed down the officers and men by dozens. Still they advanced, and, on reaching the guns, spiked every one in front; but the Sikhs poured in such a fire of musketry in flank and rear that the brigade was compelled to retreat – a move-