Wharton must tell him of the ambush. But if he does--"
"We will not leave him a dozen sound skins in his battalion,"
interrupted the other, springing into his saddle.
The truth was soon apparent; for the English column, after advancing for
a short distance on the level land, deployed with an accuracy that
would have done them honor on a field day in their own Hyde Park.
"Prepare to mount-mount!" cried Dunwoodie; the last word being repeated
by Lawton in a tone that rang in the ears of Caesar, who stood at the
open window of the cottage. The black recoiled in dismay, having lost
all his confidence in Captain Lawton's timidity; for he thought he yet
saw him emerging from his cover and waving his sword on high.
As the British line advanced slowly and in exact order, the guides
opened a galling fire. It began to annoy that part of the royal troops
which was nearest to them. Wellmere listened to the advice of the
veteran, who was next to him in rank, and ordered two companies to
dislodge the American foot from their hiding place. The movement created
a slight confusion; and Dunwoodie seized the opportunity to charge. No
ground could be more favorable for the maneuvers of horse, and the
attack of the Virginians was irresistible. It was aimed chiefly at the
bank opposite to the wood, in order to clear the Americans from the fire
of their friends who were concealed; and it was completely successful.
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