The French cavalry corps, under Gen. Sordet, was coming up on our left
rear early in the morning, and I sent an urgent message to him to do his
utmost to come up and support the retirement of my left flank; but owing
to the fatigue of his horses he found himself unable to intervene in any
way.
There had been no time to intrench the position properly, but the troops
showed a magnificent front to the terrible fire which confronted them.
The artillery, although outmatched by at least four to one, made a
splendid fight, and inflicted heavy losses on their opponents.
[Illustration: Map 1.--Showing the early stages of the retreat from
Mons, Aug. 22 to Sept. 1.]
At length it became apparent that, if complete annihilation was to be
avoided, a retirement must be attempted; and the order was given to
commence it about 3:30 P.M. The movement was covered with the most
devoted intrepidity and determination by the artillery, which had itself
suffered heavily, and the fine work done by the cavalry in the further
retreat from the position assisted materially in the final completion of
this most difficult and dangerous operation.
Fortunately the enemy had himself suffered too heavily to engage in an
energetic pursuit.
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