Chapter XI
NAPOLEON, having taken the precaution of posting a Cavalry Corps of Observation upon his Right Flank, no longer delayed sending the Order to NEY for the commencement of the Grand Attack upon the Centre and Left Wing of the Anglo-Allied Army. About the same time, WELLINGTON, considering that some of the Battalions along the Right Wing of his Front Line were too much exposed to the Enemy's cannonade, which had from the commencement been principally directed against them, and which was now conducted with increased vigour, withdrew them more under shelter of the crest of the ridge. It might then be about half past one, or perhaps a quarter before two o'clock.
The simultaneous advance of D'ERLON's four Divisions of Infantry, amounting to more than 16,000 men, was grand and imposing. As the heads of the Columns cleared their own line of Batteries ranged along the crest of the intervening ridge, and as the points on which they were directed for attack opened out to their view, loud and reiterated shouts arose from their ranks of "Vive l'Empereur!" which, as the masses began to descend the exterior slope of their position, were suddenly drowned in the roar produced by the discharge of seventy four pieces of French cannon over their heads. The effects of the latter upon PICTON's Division, and upon BYLANDT's Dutch-Belgian Brigade, which, as before stated, was deployed upon the exterior slope of the Anglo-Allied position, were severely felt.
Light Troops now issued forth from each Column, and soon spread out into a line of Skirmishers extending the whole length of the valley. As DONZELOT's Division, which was on the left, approached La Haye Sainte, one of its Brigades moved out to attack that Farm, while the other continued its advance on the right of the Charleroi road; and it was not long before a sharp fire of musketry along and around the hedges of the Orchard of La Haye Sainte announced the first resistance to D'ERLON's formidable advance. Shortly afterwards a dropping fire commenced among the hedges and inclosures of Papelotte, La Haye, and Smohain; which were occupied by the Nassau Battalions under Prince BERNHARD of Saxe Weimar. The Right Brigade of DURUTTE's Division was thrown out against the troops defending these inclosures; while the Left Brigade continued to advance across the valley, so as to form a Support to MARCOGNET's Division on its left, and, at the same time, to connect this attack with the advance of the latter against the main Front Line of the Allied Right Wing.
DURUTTE's Skirmishers pressed boldly forward against those of Prince BERNHARD's Brigade; and it was not long before they succeeded in gaining possession of the Farm House of Papelotte, driving out the Light Company of the 3rd Battalion of the 2nd Regiment of Nassau, commanded by Captain RETTBERG; but the latter, on being reinforced with four additional Companies, resumed the offensive, and gallantly retook the Farm. The contest in this quarter was now limited to a persistent skirmish; which extended itself along La Haye and Smohain, occupied by the Regiment of Orange Nassau. With this tiraillade on either Flank of D'ERLON's Corps, the central Columns pursued their onward course, and began to ascend the exterior slope of the Allied position.
Immediately on the departure of D'ERLON's Corps from the French position, BACHELU's Infantry Division, which constituted the Right of REILLE's Corps, was moved forward to the immediate Height between La Belle Alliance and La Haye Sainte (where it is intersected by the hollow way formed by the Charleroi road), in order to maintain that point, to be at hand as a Reserve to the attacking force, and to keep up the connection between the Right and Left Wings of the Front Line of the French Army.
The three central Columns continued their Advance up the exterior slope of the Allied position. The nature of the ground still admitted of the play of the French Batteries over their heads, and great was the havoc produced by this fire upon PICTON's devoted ranks. As the heads of the Columns neared the deployed Line of BYLANDT's Brigade, the shouts of "Vive l'Empereur!" were renewed. The Skirmishers in advance had scarcely opened their fire upon the Brigade, in order to prepare for, and give increased effect to, the succeeding charge of the Columns; when the Dutch-Belgians, who had already evinced a considerable degree of unsteadiness, began firing in their turn, but with very little effect: immediately after which they commenced a hurried retreat, not partially and promiscuously, but collectively and simultaneously--so much so, that the movement carried with it the appearance of its having resulted from a word of command. The disorder of these troops rapidly augmented; but, on their reaching the straggling hedge along the crest of the position, an endeavour was made to rally them upon the 5th Battalion of Dutch Militia. This attempt, however, notwithstanding the most strenuous and praiseworthy exertions on the part of the Officers, completely failed. The reserve Battalion and the Artillerymen of Captain BYLEVELD's Battery, though they seemed to stem the torrent for a moment, were quickly swept away by its accumulating force. As they rushed past the British Columns, hissings, hootings, and execrations were indignantly heaped upon them; and one portion, in its eagerness to get away, nearly ran over the Grenadier Company of the 28th British Regiment, the men of which were so enraged, that it was with difficulty they could be prevented from firing upon the fugitives. Some of the men of the 1st, or Royal Scots, were also desirous of shooting them. Nothing seemed to restrain their flight, which ceased only when they found themselves completely across and covered by the main ridge along which the Anglo-Allied Army was drawn up. Here they continued, comparatively under shelter, during the remainder of the battle, as a Reserve; in which capacity alone, considering their losses and their crippled state, they could now be rendered serviceable.
PICTON, who had been calmly watching the French movements, and whose quick and practised eye detected the increasing unsteadiness and wavering disposition of the Dutch-Belgians, appeared to expect but a feeble resistance on their part; and upon his Aide de Camp, Captain TYLER,[10] remarking to him that he was sure they would run, he said, "Never mind; they shall have a taste of it, at all events." He had certainly not anticipated the possibility of their retiring so precipitately as they did the moment the French came within musket range of their ranks.
Now, however, that these troops had completely cleared away to the rear, and left him no other means wherewith to brave the coming storm than could be afforded by the shattered remnants of KEMPT's and PACK's Brigades which had survived the sanguinary Fight of Quatre Bras, PICTON immediately deployed his force, and assumed an attitude of patient but determined resistance. When the disparity in relative numbers of the assailants and defenders is considered, the attempt to make head with such odds, against the advancing masses of an Enemy elated by his triumphant progress, was, it must be admitted, a daring and critical undertaking. Each Brigade presented a thin two deep Line. Their united strength did not amount to more than about 3,000 men; whilst of the French force, the central attacking Columns alone, which were now advancing directly upon these two Brigades, consisted of nearly 12,000 men. PICTON had, moreover, no Infantry Reserve whatever, from which he could obtain support in case of success, or upon which he could fall back in case of disaster.
He was not, however, one to be daunted by the approach of heavy Columns, formidable as they might appear in point of numbers, when he could meet them with a well trained British Line, though it should be but two deep, and present but a fourth of the numerical force of its opponents. It is true, that nearly all the Regiments in KEMPT's and PACK's Brigades had lost half their numbers in the Battle of the 16th; but PICTON well knew that they had not lost that indomitable spirit, which, under his guidance, had immortalised them on that memorable Field of Battle. There, he had triumphantly led them both in Line against heavy Columns of Infantry, and in Squares against charging Squadrons of Cavalry. What, then, might not be achieved by such innate valour--by such consummate discipline? The entire confidence which he reposed in his men was warmly reciprocated on their part. With such a Chief to lead them, they would have bravely confronted the whole French Army, had it been moving in mass against them. The flight of the panic-stricken Dutch-Belgians produced no effect upon them beyond that of exciting their derision and contempt.
The 28th, 32nd, and 79th Regiments of KEMPT's Brigade, when deployed, occupied a Line parallel to, and about fifty yards distant from, the hedge along the Wavre road, its Right resting on a high bank lining the Charleroi road, and its Left terminating at a point in rear of that part of the Wavre road which begins to incline for a short distance towards the left rear. In their right front, immediately overlooking the intersection of the Charleroi and Wavre roads, stood (as before stated) the Reserve of the 1st Battalion 95th Rifles; they had two Companies, under Major LEACH, posted in the Sand Pit adjoining the left of the Charleroi road; and one Company, under Captain JOHNSTON, at the hedge on the Knoll in rear of the Sand Pit. Their Commanding Officer Colonel Sir ANDREW BARNARD, and Lieutenant Colonel CAMERON, were with these Advanced Companies, watching the Enemy's movements.
PACK's Line was in left rear of KEMPT's Brigade, and about 150 yards distant from the Wavre road. Its Left rested upon the Knoll between the Wavre road and a small coppice on the reverse slope of the position; but the Centre and Right extended across a considerable hollow which occurs on the right of that coppice. The front of the interval between the two Brigades became, after the retreat of the Dutch-Belgians, completely exposed and uncovered.
The French Left central attacking Column had continued its advance in a direction contiguous to, and parallel with, the high road, until the Skirmishers in front were suddenly checked by the Companies of the 95th British Rifles posted in the Sand Pit; which obstacle had hitherto been in a great measure concealed from their view by the particular formation of the ground, combined with the height of the intervening corn. Influenced by the discovery of this impediment, and by the appearance of the abatis upon the high road, the Column inclined to the right so as to clear the Sand Pit; and as their Skirmishers were pressing on in that direction, the Companies of the 95th became turned, and were forced to fall back upon the other Company stationed along the little hedge in rear of the Pit. So vigorous and effective was the fire maintained from this hedge by the British Riflemen, both upon the Skirmishers and upon the Column itself, that the latter was induced to swerve still further to the right, out of its original direction.
The retreat of BYLANDT's Brigade having removed all impediment to the advance of the central attacking Columns, the three Companies of the 95th soon found themselves outflanked by the French Skirmishers, and gradually retired upon their Reserve. The Light Companies of the other Regiments of KEMPT's Brigade, which had moved out to skirmish, fell back in like manner, accordingly as the French Columns advanced. With a view to secure the Left Flank of the attacking force, and at the same time to connect the movements with those on the opposite side of the high road, the French presented a strong Line, or rather a mass, of Skirmishers, in the interval between that road and the Left central Column.
As the Columns now rapidly approached the crest of the Anglo-Allied position, the greater part of the Batteries along the French ridge--that is, all those which had been cannonading that portion of the Line embraced by the attack--gradually suspended their fire. The partial cessation of their thunder was immediately succeeded by loud and reiterated shouts from the Columns of "Vive l'Empereur!"; whilst at short intervals were heard the cheering exhortations of "En avant! en avant!" mingled with the continued roll of drums beating the pas de charge.
The Left central Column was advancing in a direction which would have brought it in immediate contact with the Right of the 28th British Regiment and the Left of the 79th Highlanders, and had arrived within about forty yards of the hedge lining the edge of the Wavre road, when PICTON moved forward KEMPT's Brigade close to the hedge; where it was joined by its Light Companies, who came running in, followed by some of the most daring of the French Skirmishers, who, however, were quickly driven back. Suddenly the Column halted, and commenced a deployment to its right, the rear Battalions moving out rapidly to disengage their front.
PICTON, seizing upon the favourable moment, ordered the Brigade to fire a volley into the deploying mass; and its brief but full and condensed report had scarcely died away, when his voice was heard loudly calling "Charge! charge! Hurrah!" Answering with a tremendous shout, his devoted followers burst through the nearest of the two hedges that lined the Wavre road. In doing this their order Was in some degree broken; and, when making their way through the further hedge, a fire was poured into them by such of their opponents as had their front uncovered. The Enemy's Skirmishers that had previously fallen back upon the Flanks of the Column instantly darted forward; and by their rapid and close telling fire assisted in the endeavour to augment the apparent disorder of KEMPT's line. The 79th Highlanders suffered greatly, and experienced some delay in clearing the hedges. The Ensign (BIRTWHISTLE) carrying the Regimental Colour of the 32nd, was severely wounded. Lieutenant BELCHER, who commanded the left centre subdivision, took the Colour from him. In the next moment it was seized by a French Officer, whose horse had just been shot under him. A struggle ensued between him and Lieutenant BELCHER; but, while the former was attempting to draw his sword, the covering Colour Sergeant (named SWITZER) gave him a thrust in the breast with his halbert, and the right hand man of the subdivision (named LACY) shot him, just as Brevet Major TOOLE, commanding the right centre subdivision, called out, though too late (for the French Officer fell dead at Lieutenant BELCHER's feet), "Save the brave fellow!" The delay in crossing the hedges was but momentary; order was speedily restored: and then, levelling their bayonets, the Brigade disclosed to view the glorious sight of a British Line of Infantry at the charge.
It was during this brief struggle that a severe and irreparable blow was inflicted upon the entire British Army, and a whole nation plunged into grief and mourning for the loss of a Chief; the brilliancy of whose career had so excited her admiration, and the fame of whose exploits had so exalted her pride. The truly brave and noble PICTON was struck by a musket ball on the right temple. His death, which was instantaneous, was first observed by the Earl of UXBRIDGE's Aide de Camp, Captain HORACE SEYMOUR; whom he was, at the moment, desiring to rally the Highlanders. Captain SEYMOUR, whose horse was just then falling, immediately called the attention of PICTON's Aide de Camp, Captain TYLER, to the fact of the General having been wounded; and, in the next moment, the hero's lifeless corpse was, with the assistance of a private soldier of the nearest Regiment, borne from off his charger by that Officer. Thus fell the gallant soldier, who, as the Leader of the Third or "Fighting Division" in the Peninsular War, had already acquired an imperishable renown in the history of the British Army. As his life was spent in fighting the battles of his country, his death was an end suited to his stirring career. His brave spirit passed away amidst the roar and din of the bloody conflict, and his eyes closed on his last of Fields in the very moment of the advance of his troops to victory.
The French Column, surprised in the midst of its attempted deployment, and appalled by the bold and determined onset of KEMPT's Line, appeared as if struck by a panic, fell into irremediable confusion, and fled with precipitation from its pursuers. Just as the British Brigade bore down the slope, its front was partially crossed from the right by French Cuirassiers, followed by the 2nd British Life Guards; the former, dashing in amongst their own thickly scattered Infantry Skirmishers; who threw themselves down to allow both fugitives and pursuers to ride over them, and then, in many cases, rose up and fired after the latter. But although the greater part of the Cuirassiers turned about and boldly faced their opponents, whereby several isolated individual contests occurred; the 2nd Life Guards soon obtained the mastery, and compelled them to resume their flight: whilst the 95th Rifles speedily closed upon the disordered mass of Infantry through which this portion of the Cavalry had passed, and amongst which the greatest confusion and consternation prevailed. Many flew wildly they scarcely knew whither; others delivered themselves up; and several were seized as prisoners.
On its right, the Brigade was supported in the charge by the 1st Light Battalion of the King's German Legion; which crossed over for that purpose from the opposite side of the high road.
Immediately after passing through the hedge, the extreme Left of the 28th Regiment had unexpectedly found itself almost in contact with a well formed French Column still advancing against the Allied position. The Right Wing of the Regiment was too deeply engaged with the Column directly before it to admit of its attention being drawn off to any other quarter; but the Left Wing, having a clearer front, boldly brought forward its right shoulders, thus detaching itself from the Right Wing, and fired into the Left Flank of the advancing Column at the very moment when the head of the latter was charged by the Right Regiment (the Royals) of PONSONBY's Brigade of Heavy Cavalry. KEMPT, becoming aware of the prolongation of the French attack along the Line to his left, and of the consequently exposed state of this Flank; and possessing no Infantry Support or Reserve of any kind, felt himself under the necessity of restraining his men from further pursuit, and ordered the Brigade to halt and reform. The Left Wing of the 28th, however, having its whole attention fixed upon the Column charged by the Royals, followed these Dragoons some distance down the slope, and assisted them in securing a great number of prisoners; after which it fell back, and rejoined the Right Wing of the Regiment. The 95th Rifles continued advancing, and driving the French Skirmishers before them beyond the Knoll by the Sand Pit.
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From this extremely gallant and most decisive attack by KEMPT's Brigade, we must proceed to describe the no less brilliant charges performed by both SOMERSET's and PONSONBY's Cavalry Brigades; but to afford a more ready comprehension of this period of the action, it will be necessary, in the first instance, to revert, to the attack and defence of La Haye Sainte.
The French Skirmishers thrown out by the Left Brigade of DONZELOT's Division advanced boldly and resolutely against the Orchard of La Haye Sainte. The first shot tore away the bridle of Major BARING's horse close to his hand, and the second killed Major BÖSEWIEL, the next in command. The three Companies of the 2nd Light Battalion of the King's German Legion, which, as before stated, were posted in the Orchard, together with two Companies of the 1st Light Battalion of the King's German Legion under Captains WYNECKEN and GOEDEN, and a Company of Hanoverian Riflemen under Major SPÖRKEN, which were extended on the right of the Farm, presented a gallant resistance to the Enemy; but the latter continued to press forward with superior force, and the main body of the French Brigade having formed two Columns of Attack, which were rapidly advancing, one into the Orchard, and the other towards the Buildings, Major BARING fell back with his men upon the Barn.
At this moment, Colonel KLENCKE reached the Farm with the Lüneburg Field Battalion; which WELLINGTON, on observing the French advance, had detached from the Left of KIELMANSEGGE's Brigade as a reinforcement to the troops of La Haye Sainte. BARING immediately endeavoured to recover the Orchard; and had already made the Enemy give way, when he perceived a strong Line of Cuirassiers forming in right front of the inclosure. At the same time, Lieutenant MEYER came to report to him that the Enemy had surrounded the Garden in which his Company was posted, and that it had become no longer tenable. BARING ordered him to fall back into the Buildings, and to assist in their defence. The Skirmishers upon the right, on the sudden appearance of the Cavalry, ran in upon the Orchard to collect together: but coming in contact with the newly arrived Hanoverians, the latter got into disorder; and the effect produced by the sight of the advancing Line of Cuirassiers in their front, as also by the shouts of the French Infantry gaining possession of the Garden in their rear, was such, that notwithstanding all BARING's exertions to halt and collect his men, the whole of these troops betook themselves to an indiscriminate flight towards the main position of the Allied Army, a course which they seemed to imagine constituted their only chance of safety.
They were speedily undeceived. The Cavalry overtook them in the midst of their confused retreat, rode over, sabred, and still further dispersed them; whilst, to add to the severity of their loss, they became exposed, after the Cavalry had passed on, to a flank fire from the Enemy's Infantry lining the hedge of the Garden. A portion of them succeeded in gaining the main position; whilst the remainder, securing themselves in the Buildings, augmented the little garrison under Lieutenants CAREY and GRÆME, and Ensign FRANK, who bravely and successfully maintained possession in defiance of the vigorous attacks on the part of the French Light Troops. The Lüneburg Hanoverian Battalion, however, suffered most severely: many were killed and wounded; among the latter was the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel KLENCKE, and among the prisoners taken was Major DACHENHAUSEN. Some on the left saved themselves by a precipitate retreat into the high road. The few that were collected together again during the remainder of the day constituted but a very insignificant portion of the original strength of the Battalion.
The Earl of UXBRIDGE, on perceiving the advance of the French Cavalry by La Haye Sainte, on the British right of the Charleroi road (the same alluded to as having dispersed the Hanoverian Lüneburg Battalion and BARING's Skirmishers of the Legion), as also the approach of the Infantry Columns which constituted the attack upon the Allied Left Wing on the opposite side of that road, decided upon a simultaneous charge by the Heavy Cavalry Brigades of Lord EDWARD SOMERSET and Sir WILLIAM PONSONBY; the former against the Enemy's Cavalry, the latter against his masses of Infantry. The resolution was scarcely formed when he proceeded to carry it into instant execution. Riding up to Lord EDWARD SOMERSET, he ordered him to prepare to form Line, keeping the Blues in support: and galloping on to PONSONBY's Brigade on the opposite side of the high road, he ordered that Officer to wheel into Line as soon as he saw the other Brigade do so, and to hold the Scots Greys in support. He then returned to the Household Brigade, and immediately put the whole in motion.
As this was the first grand attack made by the French on that day in fair open Field, Lord UXBRIDGE felt very desirous, in meeting it, to establish, if possible, the superior prowess of the British Cavalry; and thus to inspire it with confidence, and cause it to be held in respect by its opponents. He, therefore, with a view to excite the courage and heighten the enthusiasm of his followers, led the advance in person, placing himself in front of the Left of SOMERSET's Brigade, so as to be at about the centre of the Line when the Brigades should unite, on the continuation of the advance, in front of the Allied position. Nobly and faithfully did these brave Dragoons fulfil his anxious expectations.
For the purpose of ensuring efficient support to his Cavalry attacks, Lord UXBRIDGE had, before the commencement of the Battle, intimated to the Generals of Brigade that as he could not be present everywhere to give Orders, he expected they would always take upon themselves to conform to, and support, offensive movements in their front; and having on this occasion Light Cavalry Brigades on either Flank of the charging force, he felt in a great degree justified in placing himself in Front Line, particularly as he had assigned to each of the advancing Brigades its own immediate Support.
Though greatly palliated by the adoption of these precautionary measures, this was perhaps not altogether a prudent act on the part of the Commander of the entire Cavalry of an Army; since, in the charge of an extended Line of Cavalry against an Enemy close at hand, the carrière once begun, the Leader becomes so completely identified and mixed up with that Line itself, that his virtual command is rapidly limited to that of a Squadron Officer; whereas, when accompanying a Second Line, he is enabled to draw off, or reinforce, as circumstances may render expedient. His eager desire, however, to render this first charge a brilliant affair, combined with his own chivalric nature, led him to assume the post of honour and of danger, in order to animate by his example as a bold and determined soldier. At the same time, he trusted to the dispositions he had already made, and to the alertness of his Brigadiers, for due support to his attack; but which, from fortuitous circumstances, as will be seen by the sequel, was not forthcoming at the moment it was most urgently required.
The French Line of Cavalry, as it advanced, presented an imposing appearance. These veteran warriors bore with them an air of confident superiority and anticipated triumph, joined with a sort of gaieté de coeur, inspired no doubt by the reflection that they were about to encounter and overthrow their most implacable Enemies, the British. Their advance, like that of the Infantry on their right, had been to a certain extent triumphant; and, as the flight of the Dutch-Belgians had led that Infantry to imagine that victory was already within its grasp, so the dispersion of the Hanoverians was hailed by these Dragoons as a happy prelude to their grand attack. They had now ascended the brow of the ridge on which the Anglo-Allied Infantry was posted, prepared for their reception: a vigorous fire was opened upon them by the four guns of Ross's British Horse Battery on the right of the high road, as also by LLOYD's British Foot Battery still further to the right; but a few seconds sufficed to restore the order of their advance: in the next moment their trumpets sounded the charge; when, amidst shouts of "Vive l'Empereur!" this gallant Line, glittering in all the splendour reflected from burnished helmet and cuirass, rushed on to the attack.
On the other hand, the British Household Brigade, presenting a beautiful Line, and animated by an equal degree of enthusiasm, had already been put into charging speed; and just as the Cuirassiers came close upon the Squares, and received a fire from their front faces, the two Lines dashed into each other with indescribable impetuosity. The shock was terrific.
The British, in order to close as much as possible upon the Cuirassiers, whose swords were much longer, and whose bodies were encased in steel, whilst their own were without such defence, seemed for a moment striving to wedge themselves in between the horses of their infuriated antagonists. Swords gleamed high in air with the suddenness and rapidity of the lightning flash, now clashing violently together, and now clanging heavily upon resisting armour; whilst with the din of the battle shock were mingled the shouts and yells of the combatants. Riders vainly struggling for mastery quickly fell under the deadly thrust or the well delivered cut. Horses, plunging and rearing, staggered to the earth, or broke wildly from their ranks. But desperate and bloody as was the struggle, it was of brief duration. The physical superiority of the British, aided by transcendant valour, was speedily made manifest; and the Cuirassiers, notwithstanding their most gallant and resolute resistance, were driven down from off the ridge, which they had ascended only a few minutes before with all the pride and confidence of men accustomed and determined to overcome every obstacle. This first collision at the charge did not occur, however, throughout the entire extent of the opposing Lines. SOMERSET's Line was not parallel to that of the Cuirassiers, and as its Right was thrown somewhat forward, this came first in contact with the Enemy, and the collision, in consequence of the rapidity of the charge on both sides, followed in instantaneous succession in the direction of the Allied Left until intercepted in its further progress by a natural obstruction consisting of the hollow way through which the cross roads lead into the Charleroi road. The Cuirassiers on the right of the French Line were suddenly thrown out of their speed by coming unexpectedly on this hollow way, into which they consequently descended abruptly and confusedly; and as they began to urge their horses up the opposite bank, they beheld the 2nd British Life Guards, which formed the Left of SOMERSET's Brigade, in full speed towards them. All idea of resistance, in such a situation, was abandoned as hopeless. They immediately filed away down this hollow way to their right, and struck across the Charleroi road into the field in front of the 95th British Rifles; followed by the 2nd Life Guards, who were in equal disorder from having to pick their way as they best could down the steep banks adjoining the intersection of the two roads.
These Cuirassiers, after having rushed in upon the French Infantry Skirmishers thickly and confusedly congregated in that quarter, reined in their steeds, and fronting their pursuers, engaged them individually in hand to hand combat. They were soon, however, made sensible of their inferiority in this species of contest, and either submitted to the victors, or fled with precipitation; whilst at the same time, KEMPT's Brigade was charging gloriously down the exterior slope of the Allied position, and closing upon the Infantry with which these horsemen had become intermingled, in the manner previously described.
No sooner did PONSONBY perceive the Household Cavalry in motion, than in pursuance of the Orders he had received, he led on his own Brigade; but not being sufficiently aware of the state of affairs on the opposite side of the Wavre road, and not wishing to launch his Line against the Enemy's masses until the favourable moment had arrived, he commanded a temporary halt, and rode up to the hedge in order that he might, by personal observation, ensure the correct timing of the charge. He was accompanied by Colonel MUTER, commanding the Inniskilling Dragoons; whom he desired to return and place himself in front of the Centre Squadron, and to order and conduct the movement, the moment he should observe him hold up his cocked hat as a signal.
It is necessary to remark that the Scots Greys, who stood in support some short time previously to this advance, just where the Enemy's round shot, after passing over the ridge in front, descended in quick succession and occasioned some losses in their ranks, were ordered to some lower ground in left rear of the other two Regiments; which new position they had scarcely reached when the latter were advanced as above, and the Greys immediately conformed to this movement.
During the advance of ALIX's French Division (the First), its rear Brigade, which consisted of the 54th and 55th Regiments, inclined to its right, moved out of the mass, and formed two Columns, of two Battalions each, in support, en échelon to the leading Brigade, consisting of the 28th and 105th Regiments. In like manner, the rear Brigade of MARCOGNET's Division (the Third), consisting of the 21st and 46th Regiments, broke into two Columns, of two Battalions each, in support, en échelon to, but more immediately in rear of, the leading Brigade, consisting of the 25th and 45th Regiments.
While KEMPT's Brigade was bravely charging down the slope on the right, the heads of the leading Brigades of ALIX's and MARCOGNET's Divisions, with conspicuous gallantry, and amidst shouts of triumph, crowned the crest of the Allied position on the left, crossing the Wavre road and the straggling hedge, by which their order had been in some degree disturbed. ALIX's leading Brigade, having passed clear of KEMPT's Left, found itself unopposed by Infantry, in its front; but the head of MARCOGNET's Column, after passing close by the right of Captain RETTBERG's Hanoverian Foot Battery, from which it had received a very destructive fire, during its advance, beheld a short but compact line of Highlanders directly in its front.
This was the remnant of the 92nd Regiment which had so gallantly fought, and so greatly suffered, at Quatre Bras. It did not at that moment consist of more than 230 men, whilst the opposing Column numbered about 2,000. PACK, who was in front of the 92nd, on seeing the head of the French Column making its way through the hedge, resolved in his own mind that not a moment must be allowed to it for observation and reflection, as otherwise the French would succeed in establishing themselves in great force on the summit of the British position. He instantly decided upon a measure, which, in daring and determination, was fully commensurate with the emergency of the occasion. Addressing himself to the Highlanders, he said, in an energetic tone, "92nd, you must charge--all in front of you have given way!" With loud cheers, and under the animating sounds of their native pibroch, the 92nd moved steadily on with the noble mien and gallant bearing of men bent upon upholding, at any sacrifice, the honour and glory of their country. That portion of the French Column which had by this time crossed the hedge was in perfect order, and presented a bold and determined front. As the 92nd approached the Column, it received from it a fire; which, however, it did not return, but continued to advance steadily until it had arrived within twenty or thirty yards distance, when the head of the French Column appeared panic struck, and facing about in the greatest confusion, endeavoured to escape; the Highlanders, at the same moment, throwing into the mass a concentrated fire, most destructive in its effects. The 92nd immediately charged; but at this very moment PONSONBY's Brigade came up.
Colonel MUTER had just before perceived the raised cocked hat, when he instantly ordered and conducted the advance of the Brigade. It will be recollected that the Scots Greys had been ordered to support the Royals and Inniskillings; but having as was before explained, moved down into lower ground on the left, to get more under cover from the Enemy's cannonade, and subsequently advanced in left rear of those two Regiments, they beheld in their direct front the head of MARCOGNET's Division establishing itself on the height. Their course from that moment was obvious. They soon got up into Line, or nearly so, with the remainder of the Brigade, and joined in the general charge.
Upon PONSONBY's Brigade coming up with the Infantry, it passed through the latter as well, and as quickly as it could: in some instances intervals were made for the Dragoons by the wheeling of companies; in others, by that of subdivisions or of sections: but generally the passage was effected in rather an irregular manner; and under the circumstances this was unavoidable. Of the remaining Regiments of PACK's Brigade, the 44th, which formed the Left, having its front covered by BEST's Hanoverians, remained in support, on the summit or Knoll immediately above, and on the left of, the hollow in which the rest of the Brigade had been posted. The 1st Royal Scots, and the 42nd Highlanders on the right of the 92nd, moved forward immediately after the advance by the latter, and crossing the hedge, assisted PONSONBY's Cavalry in securing prisoners.
As the Scots Greys passed through, and mingled with, the Highlanders; the enthusiasm of both Corps was extraordinary. They mutually cheered. "Scotland for ever!" was their war shout. The smoke in which the head of the French Column was enshrouded had not cleared away, when the Greys dashed into the mass. So eager was the desire, so strong the determination, of the Highlanders to aid their compatriots in completing the work so gloriously begun, that many were seen holding on by the stirrups of the horsemen; while all rushed forward, leaving none but the disabled in their rear. The leading portion of the Column soon yielded to this infuriated onset; the remainder, which was yet in the act of ascending the exterior slope, appalled by the sudden appearance of Cavalry at a moment when, judging by the sound of musketry fire in front, they had naturally concluded that it was with Infantry alone they had to contend, were hurled back in confusion by the impetus of the shock. The Dragoons, having the advantage of the descent, appeared to mow down the mass; which, bending under the pressure, quickly spread itself outwards in all directions. Yet, in that mass were many gallant spirits, who could not be brought to yield without a struggle; and these fought bravely to the death: not that they served to impede, but only to mark more strongly the course of the impetuous torrent as it swept wildly past them, presenting to the eye of the artistic observer those streaks which, arising incidentally from such partial and individual contests, invariably characterize the track of a charge of Cavalry.
Within that mass too, was borne the Imperial Eagle of the 45th Regiment, proudly displaying on its banner the names of Austerlitz, Jena, Friedland, Essling, and Wagram--Fields in which this Regiment had covered itself with glory, and acquired the distinguished title of "The Invincibles." A devoted band encircled the sacred Standard, which attracted the observation, and excited the ambition of a daring and adventurous soldier, named EWART, a Sergeant of the Greys. After a desperate struggle, evincing on his part great physical strength combined with extraordinary dexterity, he succeeded in capturing the cherished trophy. The gallant fellow was directed to proceed with it to Brussels, where he was received with acclamations by thousands who came forward to welcome and congratulate him.
Without pausing for a moment to reform, those of the Greys who had forced their way through, or on either Flank of, the mass, rushed boldly onward against the leading supporting Column of MARCOGNET's right Brigade. This body of men, lost in amazement at the suddenness, the wildness, of the charge; and its terrific effects upon their countrymen on the higher ground in front, had either not taken advantage of the very few moments that had intervened, by preparing an effectual resistance to Cavalry; or, if they attempted the necessary formation, did so when there was no longer time for its completion. Their outer Files certainly opened a fire which proved very destructive to their assailants; but to such a degree had the impetus of the charge been augmented by the rapidly increasing descent of the slope, that these brave Dragoons possessed as little of the power as of the will to check their speed, and they plunged down into the mass with a force that was truly irresistible. Its foremost ranks driven back with irrepressible violence, the entire Column tottered for a moment, and then sank under the overpowering wave. Hundreds were crushed to rise no more; and hundreds rose again but to surrender to the victors; who speedily swept their prisoners to the rear, while the Highlanders secured those taken from the leading Column.
Along the remainder of the Line, the charge of the "Union Brigade" was equally brilliant and successful. On the right, the Royal Dragoons, by inclining somewhat to their left, during the advance, brought their Centre Squadron to bear upon the head of the leading Column of ALIX's Division, which had crossed the hedges lining the Wavre road, and being unchecked, was rapidly advancing across the crest of the ridge. Suddenly its loud shouts of triumph ceased as it perceived the close approach of Cavalry up the interior slope of the Anglo-Allied position. Whether it was actuated by a consciousness of danger from the disorder necessarily occasioned in its rear by the passage through the banked up hedges, by a dread of being caught in the midst of any attempt to assume a formation better adapted for effective resistance, or of being entirely cut off from all support, it is difficult to decide, but the head of this Column certainly appeared to be seized with a panic. Having thrown out an irregular and scattering fire, which served only to bring down about twenty of the Dragoons; it instantly faced about, and endeavoured to regain the opposite side of the hedges. The Royals, however, were slashing in amongst them before this object could be effected. The rear ranks of the Column, still pressing forward, and unconscious of the obstruction in front, now met those that were hurled back upon them down the exterior slope by the charge of the Royals, who continued pressing forward against both Front and Flanks of the mass. The whole was in a moment so jammed together as to have become perfectly helpless, Men tried in vain to use their muskets, which were either jerked out of their hands, or discharged at random, in the attempt. Gradually, a scattering flight from the rear loosened the unmanageable mass, which now rolled back helplessly along its downward course. Many brave spirits, hitherto pent up in the midst of the throng, appeared disposed to hazard a defiance; and amongst these the swords of the Royals dealt fearful havoc: many threw down their arms, and gave themselves up in despair; and these were hurried off by the conquerors to the rear of the British Line.
The 28th French Regiment, which formed a direct Support to the 105th Regiment, comprising the Column thus attacked, though astounded by the scene before it, and almost driven back by the panic stricken fugitives, still retained a considerable semblance of order.
Amidst the crowd that was now precipitating itself on this supporting Column, to seek its shelter and protection, was an Officer, the bearer of the Eagle of the 105th Regiment. This Standard, on which were inscribed the victories of Jena, Eylau, Eckmühl, Essling, and Wagram, was accompanied at the moment by a party apparently forming a guard for its defence. Captain CLARK, commanding the Centre Squadron of the Royals, on discovering the group, instantly gave the Order, "Right shoulders forward--attack the Colour!" and led directly upon the Eagle himself. On reaching it, he ran his sword through the body of the Standard Bearer who immediately fell, and the Eagle dropped across the head of Captain CLARK's horse. He endeavoured to catch it with his left hand, but could only touch the fringe of the Colour, and it would probably have fallen to the ground, and have been lost in the confusion of the moment, had it not been saved by Corporal STILES; who, having been Standard Coverer, and therefore posted immediately in rear of the Squadron Leader, came up at the instant, on Captain CLARK's left, and caught the Colour as it struck, in falling, against his own horse's neck.
So great were the confusion and dismay created in the second Column by the rush towards it of the disorganised remnant of the leading body, mixed up as it were with the Dragoons still pressing eagerly forward, as also by the signal overthrow of the Columns on their right by the Inniskillings, that the entire mass speedily yielded to the pressure, and commenced a disorderly flight, pursued by the Royals to the foot of the valley by which the two positions were divided.
The Inniskillings, forming the Centre Regiment of the Brigade, did not come quite so soon into contact with the French Infantry as did the Flank Regiments. The Columns in their immediate front were the two formed by the 54th and 55th French Regiments, of two Battalions each; which, as previously explained, advanced in support, and in right rear, of ALIX's leading Brigade. Only the Left, and part of the Centre, Squadron of the Inniskillings had to pass through British Infantry as they advanced; the front of the Right Squadron was clear. The Irish "hurrah!" loud, wild, and shrill, rent the air as the Inniskillings, bursting through the hedge and bounding over the road, dashed boldly down the slope towards the French Columns, which were about a hundred yards distant; an interval that imparted an additional impetus to their charge, and assisted in securing for it a result equally brilliant with that obtained by the other two Regiments. The Right and Centre Squadrons bore down upon the 55th French Regiment; while the Left Squadron alone charged the 54th Regiment. These two Columns, like those on their right and left, were not allowed time to recover from their astonishment at the unexpected, sudden, and vehement charge of Cavalry launched against them. A feeble and irregular fire was the only attempt they made to avert the impending danger. In the next instant the Dragoons were amongst them, plying their swords with fearful swiftness and dexterity, and cleaving their way into the midst of the masses; which, rolling back, and scattering outwards, presented an extraordinary scene of confusion. In addition to the destruction effected by this Regiment, the number of prisoners which it secured was immense.
The Household Brigade continued its charge down the slope on the right, and partly on the left, of La Haye Sainte, with the most distinguished gallantry and success; and bringing their right shoulders forward, the 1st Life Guards pressed severely on the rear of the Cuirassiers, as a very considerable portion of them rushed tumultuously towards that part of the high road beyond the Orchard of La Haye Sainte which lies between high banks, and which was thus completely choked up with the fugitives. Many of those who found their retreat so seriously impeded, again faced their opponents, and a desperate hand to hand contest ensued; which, however, was suddenly terminated by a destructive fire poured down upon the 1st Life Guards, from the top of the banks, by the Light Troops of BACHELU's Division that crowned the Heights through which the road has been excavated. The King's Dragoon Guards, leaving this struggle on their right, and rattling across the pavé, boldly ascended the Enemy's position. They were joined on their left, by the 2nd Life Guards, whose course had been by the left of La Haye Sainte. With these were now mingled Royals and Inniskillings, while further to the left were the Greys--the whole Line, without even any semblance of regularity, madly pursuing their wild career, as if intoxicated with the excess of triumph.
Then it was that Lord UXBRIDGE, who had so gallantly led the charge in person, and incited all by his example, eagerly sought for the Support on which he had confidently calculated; when, to his great surprise and mortification, he discovered that there was none at hand. PONSONBY's own immediate Support, which Lord UXBRIDGE himself had ordered to be formed by the Greys, had necessarily been employed in Front Line on the left, in the manner described; a fact of which, from his own position as Leader of that Line, he had been quite unaware. The direct Support of SOMERSET's Brigade, consisting of the Blues, had, during the charge, come up with, and joined, the Front Line. The Regiment was kept well in hand; and, by its comparatively good order, facilitated the drawing off of the remainder of that Brigade from further pursuit. But it was on the left of the high road, in rear of PONSONBY's Line, that support was most needed. His Lordship could not account for the circumstance of neither of the Light Cavalry Brigades, posted on the extreme Left, having come up in support of PONSONBY's advance, in conformity with the general instructions conveyed to his Brigadiers on the subject of affording mutual support. The fact is, that VANDELEUR's Brigade, which was the nearest, was then in motion for the purpose of affording its aid; but its progress was unfortunately impeded by its having previously to make a retrograde movement in order to pass a hollow way which separated it from the troops on the right. In vain did Lord UXBRIDGE sound to halt and rally--neither voice nor trumpet was heeded.
In a few seconds more, the Advanced Line was seen crowning the Enemy's position. The King's Dragoon Guards were suddenly exposed to a severe fire from the Batteries and from BACHELU's Columns of Infantry on their right; and perceiving a strong and well formed body of Cuirassiers on the point of advancing from the hollow beyond the ridge they had so rashly ascended, they, with such of the Royals and Inniskillings as had joined them, at length commenced a hasty retreat. The Greys, along with many of the Royals and Inniskillings, dashed in amongst the Batteries, and then, wheeling sharply to their left, rode along the line of cannon in that direction, sabring the Gunners and stabbing the horses, until they became sensible of the approach of a body of French Lancers moving down obliquely from the left upon the arena of this memorable conflict. They now fell back; but, with their horses blown and exhausted, it was not long before they were overtaken by the Lancers. These formed the Advance of JACQUINOT's Light Cavalry Brigade, which had been unaccountably remiss in not having afforded a prompt and close Support to the attacking Columns of Infantry.
Both the British Heavy Cavalry Brigades were now in full retreat. SOMERSET's regained the position without any serious molestation: but PONSONBY's Dragoons, particularly the Greys, who were upon the extreme Left, suffered severely from JAQUINOT's Lancers and Chasseurs, the greater part of them being in a state of the utmost confusion and exhaustion; whilst the latter were infinitely superior in numerical force, were in good order, and mounted on horses perfectly fresh. On their right the Lancers charged in Open Column; the remainder, extending in open Lancer order towards their left, rapidly spread over the plain, darting upon the stragglers and wounded of the British Cavalry who came within their reach; and, at the same time, giving confidence to such of their own scattered Infantry as were still retreating in disorder and confusion.
At length, the Support so greatly needed by PONSONBY's Brigade arrived upon its Left Flank. VANDELEUR, having passed the hollow way and ravine which intercepted his progress towards the scene of action, had reached that part of the crest of the position occupied by BEST's Hanoverian Brigade, through which it now advanced to the front in Open Column of divisions. The 12th Light Dragoons, being the leading Regiment, moved quickly down the slope: the 16th Regiment remained higher up the acclivity; while the 11th were drawn up in reserve upon the brow of the hill. The 12th and 16th wheeled into Line to their right. Lieutenant Colonel the Hon. FREDERICK PONSONBY, who commanded the 12th, perceiving the confusion that prevailed amidst the French Infantry in the valley, as also the extremely critical situation of a great number of scattered red coated Dragoons nearly on the crest of the French position, instantly charged a mass of unsteady Infantry which intervened between him and these Dragoons. This Infantry comprised the rearmost supporting Column of MARCOGNET's Division, and was the only one of the attacking Columns yet intact. It was now destined to share their fate. Already alarmed by the disorder into which the entire of the Infantry on its left had been thrown, and now attacked so suddenly and unexpectedly on its right, it was penetrated by the charge of the 12th.
These Dragoons having forced their way through the Column, whereby their order was naturally much broken, came upon the Right Flank of the Lancers who were in pursuit of PONSONBY's Brigade. Quickening their speed, they dashed in amongst the French Cavalry, and acting almost perpendicularly upon their Flank, they "rolled up" such as were immediately in their front. The 16th Light Dragoons, with VANDELEUR at their head, very gallantly charged obliquely upon the front of the Lancers, whose further advance was completely checked by this double attack. On their extreme Right, the 16th rather clashed with some of the retiring Dragoons: but the two Regiments, carrying every thing before them, succeeded in driving the French Light Cavalry down again to the foot of the valley; which they had been ordered, previously to their charge, not to pass.
Some few of both the 12th and 16th did, nevertheless, madly rush up the opposite Height; where, by this time, fresh troops had arrived, who made them suffer for their temerity.
GHIGNY's Dutch-Belgian Light Cavalry Brigade, which had, at the commencement of this Cavalry attack, crossed the Charleroi road, came up, in the mean time, to the brow of the main position, on the left of VANDELEUR's Brigade. One of its Regiments, the 4th Light Dragoons, went down the slope, following the 12th Light Dragoons; and after experiencing the effects of a brisk fire which was kept up by DURUTTE's Skirmishers from behind a bank and hedge, low down the slope, and from which the 12th Light Dragoons had previously suffered, it assisted in completing the dispersion of the French Infantry. The other Regiment (the 8th Hussars) remained a few minutes upon the Height, and then advanced to draw off the retiring Cavalry.
VIVIAN, who had come forward in person from the extreme Left, and proceeded some way down the slope for the purpose of making his observations, upon perceiving PONSONBY's Brigade charging in disorder up the French Heights, immediately sent back word for the 10th and 18th British Hussars to move through the hollow way to their right, leaving the remaining Regiment of his Brigade, the 1st Hussars of the King's German Legion, to keep a look out to the left. Very shortly afterwards, two guns detached in advance from his Horse Battery, drew up on the brow of the main ridge; but had scarcely opened a fire when a well directed shot from one of the French Batteries passed through the ammunition boxes of one of the limbers, causing an explosion, which drew forth a shout of triumph on the part of the French Artillerymen.
The charge of VANDELEUR's Brigade having succeeded, without the active aid of even its own immediate Support, the 11th Light Dragoons; the further advance of the 10th and 18th Hussars was not required, but they continued in their new position, on the right of the lane leading to Verd Cocou, and the two guns rejoined their Battery.
Major WHINYATES's Rocket Troop, having been brought up to the crest of the main ridge, from its previous position in reserve near Mont St Jean, its Rocket Sections were moved down to the foot of the exterior slope, whence they discharged several rockets at the French troops then formed, or in the act of reforming, upon the opposite heights. Immediately after the execution of this service, which was gallantly and skilfully conducted, the Troop rejoined its guns on the crest of the position.
In the general mêlée which resulted from the charge of the British Heavy Dragoons, and the overthrow of such masses of Infantry, augmented as it was by the subsequent charges of, firstly, the French Lancers, and, then, the two Regiments of British Light Cavalry, severe losses were sustained on both sides; and the British Army was deprived of some of its brightest ornaments.
The gallant Leader of the "Union Brigade," when endeavouring to return to the Allied position, after using the most strenuous but fruitless exertions to restrain his men in their wild pursuit, and to withdraw them from a contest in which they had already gained undying fame, became a sacrifice to his chivalrous and patriotic zeal. Intercepted by a party of the Lancers in the soft ground of a newly ploughed field, out of which his exhausted steed had not the power to extricate itself, he fell beneath their deadly thrusts. Sir WILLIAM PONSONBY had highly distinguished himself as a Cavalry Officer in Spain; and, independently of his merits as a soldier, which were justly appreciated by the whole Service, his amiable disposition and private virtues endeared him to all his brother Officers.
His equally gallant namesake, Colonel the Hon. FREDERICK PONSONBY, immediately after his brilliant charge with the 12th Light Dragoons, first through a Column of Infantry, and then upon the Right Flank of the Lancers, was endeavouring to withdraw his Regiment from further pursuit, when he was disabled in both arms, and carried by his horse up to the crest of the French position; where, receiving a sabre cut, he was struck senseless to the ground; and it was very generally supposed at the time that he had been left dead on the field.
Lieutenant Colonel HAY, who commanded the 16th Light Dragoons, was desperately and dangerously wounded. Colonel HAMILTON, the Commanding Officer of the Scots Greys, after gallantly leading his Regiment through the Enemy's Columns, across the valley, and up the opposite Heights, was last seen far in advance; where it is presumed, from his never having again appeared, he fell in the midst of the French lines, a sacrifice to his distinguished but indiscreet valour. Colonel FULLER, who commanded the 1st, or King's, Dragoon Guards, was killed when pursuing the Cuirassiers: he boldly led his Regiment up the French Height immediately upon the Allied Left of the Charleroi road. In addition to the above mentioned, the British Cavalry engaged in this affair sustained a very heavy loss in both Officers and men.
With the exception of the bodies of the slain; of such of the wounded as were too far from their respective Lines to be removed; of loose horses, some wildly careering about, others quietly grazing, and many staggering, plunging, or convulsively pawing the ground around them, from the agony of their wounds; the arena of this terrible conflict, which had ceased but a few minutes before, was now perfectly clear. The retiring crowds of French Infantry had disappeared behind the foremost ridge of their position, to collect and reform their scattered remnants.
The British Cavalry were similarly employed--SOMERSET's Brigade on the right of the Charleroi road, near the Orchard of the Farm of Mont St Jean; PONSONBY's on the opposite side of the road, in rear of a coppice bordering the hollow below that Farm; and VANDELEUR's on the interior slope of the position, more to the right than where it had been posted during the earlier part of the day.
PACK's and BEST's Brigades closed to their right upon KEMPT's, so as to fill up the interval occasioned by the retreat of BYLANDT's Dutch-Belgian Brigade; and the Knoll in front of KEMPT's Brigade was again occupied by three Companies of the 95th Regiment; as was also the Farm of La Haye Sainte by the 2nd Light Battalion King's German Legion, reinforced by two Companies of the 1st Light Battalion of that Corps.
Major General Sir JOHN LAMBERT's Infantry Brigade, which had been kept in reserve near Mont St Jean, was put in motion at the time PONSONBY's Dragoons advanced to the charge; and it was now placed on the left of the Charleroi road, in Column, at quarter distance, in rear and in support of the Fifth Division.
The importance of the result of this signal defeat of the French attack was fully commensurate with the glory by which its achievement was distinguished. The object of that attack, which was to force the Centre and Left Wing of the Anglo-Allied Army and to establish a very considerable body of troops in the vicinity of Mont St Jean, was completely frustrated: 3,000 prisoners were taken; two Eagles were captured; and between thirty and forty pieces of cannon were put hors de combat for the greater part of the remainder of the day.
Thus terminated one of the grandest scenes which distinguished the mighty drama enacted on the ever memorable plains of Waterloo; a scene presenting in bold relief, genuine British valour crowned with resplendent triumph; a scene, which should be indelibly impressed upon the minds as well of living British warriors as of their successors in ages yet unborn.
* * * * *
Britons! before other scenes are disclosed to your view, take one retrospective glance at this glorious, this instructive, spectacle. Let your imagination carry you to the rear of that celebrated position, and a little to the left of the Charleroi road. Behold, in the foreground, on the right, a British Line of Cavalry advancing to the charge, exulting in the consciousness of its innate courage, indomitable spirit, and strength of arm. Whilst you are admiring the beautiful order and perfect steadiness of their advance, your eyes are suddenly attracted by the glittering splendour of a Line of horsemen in burnished coats of mail, rising above the brow, and now crowning the summit of the ridge. They are the far famed Cuirassiers of France, led on by a KELLERMANN; gallant spirits that have hitherto overcome the finest troops that could be brought against them, and have grown grey in glory. Trumpets sound the charge; in the next instant your ears catch the low thundering noise of their horses' hoofs, and your breathless excitement is wound to the highest pitch as the adverse Lines clash together with a shock which, at the moment, you expect must end in their mutual annihilation. Observe the British, how they seem to doubt, for a second, in what manner to deal with their opponents. Now they urge their powerful steeds into the intervals between the necks of those of the Cuirassiers. Swords, brandished high in air, gleam fitfully in rapid succession throughout the Lines, here clashing together, there clanging against helmets and cuirass which ring under their redoubled strokes. See! the struggle is but a moment doubtful--the Cuirassiers, seemingly encumbered by their coats of mail, are yielding to superior strength, dexterity, and bravery combined--men and horses reel and stagger to the earth--gaps open out in their Line--numbers are backing out--others are fairly turning round--their whole Line now bends, and breaks asunder into fragments--in the next moment they appear, as if by a miracle, to be swept from off the crest of the position, and being closely and hotly pursued by the victors, the whole rushing down the other side of the ridge, are snatched from your view.
Your attention is now irresistibly drawn to that part of the foreground immediately facing you; where you have barely time to catch sight of a Line of British Infantry just as it forces its way through the hedge that runs along the crest of the ridge, to charge a Column advancing up the other side. At the moment the shouts that proclaim its triumph reach your ear, you are struck by the majestic advance, close to your left, of another Line of British horsemen. These halt just under the brow of the ridge. In their Left Front your eye now also embraces a Line of British Infantry; whilst at the same time you see the heads of two hostile Columns, issuing through the hedge, and crowning the ridge amidst shouts of "Vive l'Empereur!" The one nearest to you, finding no immediate opposition to its further advance, is rapidly establishing itself on the Height: the other is instantly met by a small but daring band of Scotch Highlanders. A struggle ensues; the furthest Column is concealed from your view by the smoke in which it is suddenly enshrouded; but at the very moment when doubts arise in your mind as to the result, the Cavalry rushes forward, and, passing through intervals opened out for it by the Infantry, which immediately follows in pursuit, charges both these heads of Columns, cutting them up, as it were, root and branch; and then bounding through the hedge, the whole disappear as if by magic. Now let your imagination, keeping pace with the intensity of feeling excited by such a scene, carry you up to the summit of the ridge.
Behold, at once, the glorious spectacle spread out before you! The Dragoons are in the midst of the Enemy's Columns--the furious impetuosity of their onslaught overcomes all resistance--the terror stricken masses, paralyzed by this sudden apparition of Cavalry amongst them, have neither time nor resolution to form Squares, and limit their defence to a feeble, hasty, straggling fire from their ill cemented edges--a flight, commencing from the rearmost ranks, is rapidly augmented by the outward scattering occasioned by the continually increasing pressure upon the front--the entire slope is soon covered with the dispersed elements of the previously attacking force--parties of Infantry are hurrying over the brow of the ridge to aid others of the Cavalry in securing the prisoners--3,000 of these are swept to the rear, and two Eagles are gloriously captured.
From the momentary contemplation of these trophies, your eyes instinctively revert to the course of the victors, whom you now perceive in the middle distance of the view--a broken Line of daring horsemen, rushing up the opposite Heights. Their intoxicating triumph admits of no restraint. They heed not the trumpet's call to halt and rally; but plunging wildly amidst the formidable Line of Batteries ranged along the French position, they commence sabring the Gunners, stabbing the horses, and seem to clear the ground of every living being. But physical efforts, however powerfully developed and sustained, have their limit: exhausted nature yields at length; and their fiery steeds, subdued, not by force but by exhaustion, retire with lagging faltering pace. You look in vain for a Support--there is none--but your eye is suddenly caught by the fluttering lance flags of a Column of the Enemy's Cavalry, approaching from the left, and you become nervously alive to the danger that awaits the valiant band of heroes, who are only now made sensible of the necessity of retiring to collect and rally their scattered numbers. Seeing no Support ready to receive them, and becoming aware of the near approach of hostile Cavalry, they make a last and desperate effort. Those who are best mounted, and whose horses are least blown, succeed in regaining the Allied position unmolested; but a very considerable number are overtaken by the Lancers, with whom they now contend under a fearful disadvantage in point of speed and order.
But mark! a rescue is at hand--a gallant line of friendly Cavalry throws itself against the Right Flank of the Lancers, the further portion, or Left, of that Line first dashing through and scattering an unsteady mass of Infantry, the sole remaining Column out of the entire attacking force that has yet kept together. The tide of destruction now sets in strongly against the Lancers. Their pursuit is checked. The Heavy Dragoons are relieved from the pressure. A mêlée ensues; but you are not kept long in suspense; for in another moment this newly arrived force, making good its way, succeeds in driving the Lancers in confusion down to the foot of the valley. The arena in your front is speedily cleared of both friends and foes--the discharge of rockets, which now attracts your attention, appears like a display of fireworks in celebration of the glorious triumph--the affair has terminated.
But stay to witness the concluding part of the scene. Observe the splendidly attired group entering upon the right, just above La Haye Sainte. It is headed by one whom you cannot for a moment mistake--the illustrious WELLINGTON. Lord UXBRIDGE, returning from his brilliant charge, now joins the Duke, while the whole Corps Diplomatique et Militaire express in the strongest terms their admiration of the grand military spectacle of which they have been spectators. Among them are representatives of nearly all the continental nations, so that this glorious triumph of your valiant countrymen may be said to have been achieved in the face of congregated Europe. Honour, imperishable honour, to every British soldier engaged in that never to be forgotten fight! When Britain again puts forth her strength in battle, may her Sovereign's Guards inherit the same heroic spirit which animated those of GEORGE, Prince Regent, and inspire them with the desire to maintain in all their pristine purity and freshness the laurels transmitted to them from the Field of Waterloo; and when the soldiers of the three United Kingdoms shall again be found fighting side by side against the common Enemy, may they prove to the world that they have not degenerated from the men of the "Union Brigade,"[11] who by their heroic deeds on that great day, so faithfully represented the military virtues of the British Empire!
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 10: The Dutch-Belgians having been posted in Line on the exterior slope, where, from the circumstance of their having been the only Troops of the Anglo-Allied Left Wing so distinctly visible to the Enemy, they became exposed in an especial manner to the destructive effects of the formidable array of French Batteries, which continued playing over the heads of the attacking columns. The losses of BYLANDT's Brigade on the 16th had already thinned, and in a measure disorganised, its ranks; but those which it suffered on this occasion were terrific, and the numerous gaps that so rapidly presented themselves along the Line, as well as the number of superior Officers that were observed to fall, could scarcely fail to produce a prejudicial effect among these raw troops. Their confidence in their own power of resistance had also been very considerably shaken, by the circumstance of their having been deployed in a two-deep Line; instead of having been allowed to assume the three-deep formation to which they had previously been accustomed. In this affair, PERPONCHER had two horses shot under him. BYLANDT was wounded, as were also Colonel VAN ZUYLEN VAN NYEFELT, Lieutenant Colonel WESTENBERG who commanded the 5th Battalion of Dutch Militia, and several other Officers.
Had the British soldiers been fully aware of all these circumstances, their feelings would assuredly not have been so greatly roused against the Dutch-Belgians as they were on this particular occasion. But they had neither time nor opportunity for reflection. They only saw the hurried and confused retreat; and this, at such a moment, would have equally exasperated them, had the troops so retiring been British.
That PICTON, who could perceive all that was passing along the exterior slope, should have given vent to his irritation in the remark he made to Captain TYLER, is more surprising; but it must be borne in mind, that his habitual reliance upon his own British infantry, with which he felt that he could attempt anything, usually led him to make but little allowance for the failure or discomfiture of troops in general under almost any circumstances.]
[Footnote 11: Sir WILLIAM PONSONBY's Brigade was thus designated from the circumstance of its having consisted of an English Regiment, the Royals; a Scotch Regiment, the Greys; and an Irish Regiment, the Inniskillings.]
Chapter XII
Much as the attention of both Commanders had been absorbed by the contest described in the last Chapter, the attack and defence of Hougomont had nevertheless been renewed and maintained with unabated vigour.
The assailants, who continued in possession of the Wood, having been strengthened by powerful reinforcements from both JEROME's and FOY's Divisions, now opened so rapid and indiscriminate a fire upon the Garden Wall that it might almost be supposed they entertained the hope of battering it down with their shower of bullets. They failed to make any impression upon the little garrison; though they obtained partial successes on the Flanks, which again were counteracted on the part of the defenders by the aid of Detachments from the main body of BYNG's Brigade of Guards, as also by the natural advantages of the localities. Thus, upon the right, a retreat of the Guards from the hedge which lines the Avenue and road leading to the Château, if followed up by the French, would draw upon the latter a murderous fire from the banks, brushwood, and other cover, in rear of the Avenue, together with a flank fire from behind the Buildings: and, upon the left, if they succeeded in forcing back the defenders from the front to the rear hedge of the Orchard, their Left Flank became exposed to a severe fire from the troops lining the eastern Garden Wall, while they suffered at the same time from the new fire directed against their front by the retreating party, formed under cover of the hollow way by which that rear hedge is bounded.
It was about two o'clock when BYNG, perceiving the increased pressure upon the troops in the Orchard, and the great diminution which had taken place in their numbers, desired Colonel HEPBURN, who commanded the 2nd Battalion of the 3rd Foot Guards, to move down the slope with the remainder of his men as a reinforcement. Colonel HEPBURN on reaching the hollow way found it occupied by Lord SALTOUN with a very small force; and his Lordship having scarcely a man remaining of his own Battalion, gave over to the Colonel the command of that part of Hougomont, and rejoined MAITLAND's Brigade.
After a short time, HEPBURN and his Battalion made a sudden and vigorous rush into the Great Orchard from the hollow way in its rear. The French Skirmishers gave way; and, as they crowded together while retreating through the gap that leads into the Wood, they suffered severely from the concentrated fire poured upon them by the Guards; who quickly established themselves along the front hedge of the Orchard.
This happened nearly at the same time in which the French were repulsed in their grand attack upon the Centre and Left of the Duke of WELLINGTON's Line. It might be about half past two o'clock.
The Battle was then limited to a general cannonade, the roar of which was incessant; and its effects, now that the range on both sides had been very accurately obtained, were most galling and destructive to the troops posted along the interior slope of either position.
ALTEN's Light Troops again spread themselves out to the front as soon as KELLERMANN's Cuirassiers had been swept from off the exterior slope of the Anglo-Allied position. They had not been out long before their attention was directed to a heavy Column of Infantry, apparently advancing from the vicinity of La Belle Alliance towards La Haye Sainte. It was BACHELU's Division, which had fallen back a little after the failure of D'ERLON's attack, to which it had acted as a Reserve. Lieutenant Colonel VIGOUREUX, of the 30th British Regiment, who commanded these Light Troops of ALTEN's Division, immediately threw them forward to meet the Column. They poured a well concentrated and most galling fire upon the mass; which immediately brought its right shoulders forward, and took the direction of Hougomont, either in consequence of that fire, or in accordance with Orders previously given.
The ground over which it wound its course descended sufficiently to render the movement indistinct to the British Batteries on the position; but the circumstance having been communicated to Captain CLEEVES, whose Foot Battery of the King's German Legion was posted on the most commanding point of the ridge on the right of the Charleroi road, this Officer lost not a moment in making his arrangements. He permitted the Column to continue its march unmolested until it reached a point immediately in his front, on which he had directed his guns so as to concentrate upon the mass, at the proper moment, the whole fire of his Battery. The Column continued its march, and had cleared more than two-thirds of the distance between La Belle Alliance and Hougomont, when, having well entered within Captain CLEEVES's line of fire, three rounds from each gun were thrown into it with astonishing rapidity, and awful effect. In a moment the greater portion of the Column appeared to be dispersed, and flying back in confusion towards the lower ground for shelter; leaving an immense number of dead and dying to attest the fatal accuracy of the fire from the Battery.
As no hostile force of either Cavalry or Infantry appeared in its immediate vicinity, BACHELU soon succeeded in rallying his Division and renewing the advance. A similar result followed; whereupon all further attempt to effect the contemplated movement was abandoned: and thus a most serious flank attack upon Hougomont was completely frustrated by the skilfully managed fire of a single Battery.
BACHELU now took post again, upon the right of FOY, leaving a considerable interval between his Division and the Charleroi road.
Foiled in his varied and repeated attacks upon Hougomont, NAPOLEON had now recourse to incendiary projectiles. For this purpose he had ordered a Battery of Howitzers to be formed, from which shells were thrown so as to descend into the Buildings. The Great Barn, the outhouses on the north side of the Château, the Farmer's House, and finally the Château itself, were speedily set on fire. Dense volumes of smoke, enveloping the whole Post and its defenders, were wafted slowly towards the Anglo-Allied Line; the roofs of the Buildings soon fell in; and, shortly before three o'clock, the flames burst forth with great brilliancy. Many of the wounded had been carried, or had crawled, into the Buildings; but although their comrades entertained the most distressing apprehensions for their safety, the stern sense of duty and of honour prescribed that of the Post itself as paramount to every other consideration. Invested as the place was by an Enemy so overwhelmingly superior in numbers, and so unceasingly on the alert to seize upon any advantage that might offer; not a man could be spared to assist in extricating the sufferers from their perilous situation. Obedience to the natural dictates of humanity was necessarily sacrificed to that which was due to the severe demands of discipline. Thus several perished in the flames.
Others, who had contrived to crawl into the open Courts, could scarcely breathe in the scorching and suffocating atmosphere. Many who had sought shelter, or had been laid, in the Chapel, and whose terrors were excited as they heard the crashing fall of burning timbers, or the frequent explosion of shells around them, at length beheld the flames penetrating the door of the sanctuary. The prayers that had been fervently, though silently, offered up from that holy place, had surely been accepted--the fire, reaching the feet of the wooden image of the Saviour of Mankind, that stood above the entrance, seemed to feel the sacred presence; for here its progress terminated; and this, without the aid of human efforts.
The conflagration did not occasion a moment's relaxation in the heroic exertions of the brave defenders of Hougomont. The courage and devotedness of the men kept pace with the zeal and intelligence of their Officers; and no sooner did new difficulties arise than they were met and overcome by the most judicious arrangements, combined with the most consummate gallantry.
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It was now about half past three o'clock. The Anglo-Allied Line continued compact and unshaken in its original position. Its Advanced Posts of La Haye Sainte and Hougomont had successfully resisted the most formidable assaults.
The Left Wing had sustained considerable loss in meeting and repelling the French Right Wing, but the losses endured by the latter in that attack were infinitely more severe: whole Columns of Infantry had been completely overthrown and dispersed; Squadrons of the most splendid and most devoted Cavalry had shared a similar fate; whilst from thirty to forty pieces of cannon had been rendered useless for nearly the remainder of the day. Hence, the French Emperor did not deem it advisable to renew, at least so soon, an attack upon the Left of the Anglo-Allied Army. He decided on forming a grand attack upon its Right and Centre: and since REILLE's Infantry had already suffered very considerably in its assaults upon Hougomont, he determined upon employing his Cavalry for that purpose; more especially as the ground in front of that part of the Allied Line appeared well adapted for the movements of this description of force.
To gain possession of La Haye Sainte and Hougomont, as a preliminary step, was undoubtedly the most judicious course: but hitherto his endeavours to obtain that vantage ground had altogether failed, and he was now compelled to limit his plan; combining with the projected attack, renewed assaults against those Posts; which, even if again unsuccessful, would at least serve to divert in some degree, the Enemy's attention.
NAPOLEON also contemplated a more important diversion, by causing a demonstration to be made with PIRÉ's Light Cavalry against WELLINGTON's Right Flank.
In pursuance of this plan, renewed efforts were made by the attacking force against Hougomont; and two Columns from DONZELOT's Division descended upon La Haye Sainte.
Meanwhile, Major BARING having applied for a reinforcement, two Companies were detached to his Post from the 1st Light Battalion of the King's German Legion. To these and a part of his own Battalion, he intrusted the defence of the Garden; and, abandoning altogether the Orchard, he placed the remainder of his force in the Buildings, distributing their defence among the three Officers who had so courageously maintained them during the previous attack.
The French Columns advanced against this Post with the most undaunted resolution and the most conspicuous gallantry. The well aimed bullets of the German rifles, though they told quickly and fearfully amidst their masses, arrested not their progress for a moment. They rushed close up to the walls; and, seizing the rifles as they protruded through the loop holes, endeavoured to wrest them from the hands of the defenders. They also made a most furious assault against the gates and doors, in defence of which many lives were sacrificed. The greatest struggle was at the western opening to the Large Barn, the door of which was wanting. The French, determined to make good an entrance, encountered the brave Germans equally resolute to prevent them. The foremost Frenchmen, dashing boldly on to force their way, were struck down by the deliberate fire from the rifles the instant they reached the threshold; and seventeen of their dead bodies already formed a rampart for those who continued to press forward to carry on the struggle.
It was nearly four o'clock when certain movements made by the Lancers on the French extreme Left, led the Duke to suspect an attack from that quarter; and which, considering the almost isolated position of his detached force at Braine l'Alleud and Vieux Foriez, might, if successful, be attended with very serious consequences to himself. He drew Lord UXBRIDGE's attention to that point; and the latter immediately despatched GRANT, with the 13th Light Dragoons and the 15th Hussars of his Brigade to attack the Lancers, detaching at the same time the 2nd Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion from DÖRNBERG's Brigade, towards Braine l'Alleud, for the purpose both of facilitating the attack, by manoeuvring on the left of the Lancers, and of watching the Enemy's dispositions in that direction.
The fire of Artillery along both Lines had been maintained with the utmost vigour. At this moment, however, a most furious cannonade was directed against that part of the Anglo-Allied Line which was situated between the two high roads. While some of the French Light Batteries took post in advance, others of the Imperial Guard, comprising twelve pounders, opened a fire from the Heights in rear of, and above, La Belle Alliance; and as the Batteries upon the main French Line were ranged along the arc of the chord formed by the Allied Line, the French Artillery was enabled by its very great numerical superiority in guns to concentrate an overwhelming fire upon any part of the Duke's position.
The Allied Infantry posted in Columns along the interior slope of the ridge, were entirely screened from the observation of the French, who could not distinguish any portion of their Enemies beyond the devoted British and German Artillerymen at their guns; which, despite the severity of the fire from their opponents, were worked with the most admirable coolness and intrepidity, and with a precision beyond all praise.
The thunder of the Artillery continued pealing forth in an uninterrupted roll, and the scene became awfully grand. The guns having once obtained the required range, were fired without intermission. Instantaneous flashes met the eye, all along the Heights, succeeded by volumes of smoke bounding forth along the ground in front, and enveloping the Batteries in clouds. The earth trembled beneath the dread concussion. The oldest soldiers had never witnessed a cannonade conducted with such fury, with such desperation.
The Allied Columns of Infantry were lying down upon the ground to shelter themselves as much as possible from the iron shower that fell fast and heavily--round shot, tearing frightful rents directly through their masses, or ploughing up the earth beside them; shells, bursting in the midst of the serried Columns, and scattering destruction in their fall, or previously burying themselves in the soft loose soil to be again forced upwards in eruptions of iron, mud, and stones, that fell among them like volcanic fragments.
During this terrible conflict of Artillery, NEY was making his preparatory dispositions with the Cavalry which NAPOLEON had desired him to launch against the Anglo-Allied Right Wing.
He first formed for attack, MILHAUD's Corps of Cuirassiers, consisting of twenty four Squadrons; and directed LEFÈBVRE DESNOUETTE's Light Cavalry Division of the Guard, comprising seven Squadrons of Lancers and twelve Squadrons of Chasseurs, to follow and support--in all forty three Squadrons--constituting a magnificent array of gallant horsemen. As they began to advance, the First Line, of Cuirassiers, shone in burnished steel, relieved by black horse hair crested helmets; next came the Red Lancers of the Guard, in their gaudy uniform, and mounted on richly caparisoned steeds, their fluttering lance flags heightening the brilliancy of their display; whilst the Third Line, comprising the Chasseurs of the Guard, in their rich costume of green and gold, with fur trimmed pelisses à la hussard, and black bearskin shakos, completed the gorgeous, yet harmonious, colouring of this military spectacle. Though formed in successive Lines of Columns in the hollow space on the immediate left of La Haye Sainte, where they were sheltered in some degree from the cannonade that raged so furiously above them, the Rear Lines obliqued to the left on the advance, and became echelonned to the First Line, so as to present a general front extending from the Charleroi road on their right to the Hougomont inclosures on their left.
As they ascended the ridge, the French Artillery suspended their fire; and the Allied Batteries commenced pouring a destructive shower of grape shot amidst their devoted ranks. Fiercely and fatally did this iron hail rattle against the helmed and steel clad Cuirassiers, here glancing off, there penetrating the armour; wounding or laying prostrate many a gallant warrior at the very moment when the brightest visions of glory had opened on his ardent imagination. This iron sleet, however, caused no perceptible check to their progress; and, with shouts of "Vive l'Empereur!" they accelerated their pace until, having arrived within about forty yards of the guns, they received the last and well prepared discharge. Its effects were terrific: but though their order was somewhat broken, their courage was not shaken. The charge was sounded; a cheer followed; and, in the next instant, they rushed up to the very cannon's mouth.
In accordance with previous instructions given by the Duke of WELLINGTON himself, the Artillerymen withdrew, upon the close approach of the Cavalry, and sought shelter either beside, or in rear of, the Infantry Squares; or, where occasion required, they threw themselves under the projecting bayonets of the outer kneeling ranks for protection. The Cuirassiers, on crowning the crest of the ridge; and finding themselves so unexpectedly in possession of a Line of Batteries, shouted loudly forth their triumph; and, then renewing their onward charge, were, in a moment, lost to the view of the Lancers and Chasseurs of the Guard. These troops, carried away by the enthusiasm of the moment and the eager desire to share in the fancied victory, advanced with the same fiery impetuosity, and the whole force was now fairly across the ridge.
The Allied Infantry, distributed in chequered Squares along the interior slope, were fully prepared to meet the attack. Some little apprehension had been entertained for the safety of the Right of the Front Line, where the Brunswickers, who, as before remarked, were mostly young, raw troops, had taken up the ground previously occupied by BYNG's Brigade of Guards, which had been entirely absorbed by the defence of Hougomont, with the exception of two Companies which, with the Colours, had been withdrawn, as a Reserve, to a more sheltered position on the right of the Nivelles road. As the French Cavalry advanced, the 23rd British Regiment of Infantry was led up to the Front Line, and into an interval between the Brunswick Squares. This Regiment had nearly reached the brow of the ridge when it was suddenly ordered to halt and prepare to receive Cavalry; and the Chasseurs of the Guard appearing the next moment in its front, a fire from this face was opened so hastily that scarcely a shot could have told upon the Enemy. It instantly recovered this somewhat nervous precipitation, and presented a bold and determined stand; as did also the Brunswickers, who acted on this occasion in a manner that would have reflected credit on the most experienced veterans.
The cannonade had necessarily ceased along the Right Wing of the Anglo-Allied Front Line, and along the French Batteries to which it was opposed. Hence the vehement cheering on the part of the French Cavalry became the more distinctly audible and the more highly exciting. A sullen silence was maintained throughout the Allied Squares, which were all at the "prepare,"--front ranks kneeling, and the second at the charge,--thus forming a chevaux de frise, over which the rear ranks were ready to fire, as occasion might demand.
As the Cavalry now rushed down upon the Squares, the front faces of the latter opened their fire when the former had approached within about thirty paces of them. The effect of this fire was to create disorder and confusion in the leading Squadron or Half Squadron (as the case might be), which would then open out from the centre, and obliquing to the right and left respectively, pass on by the Flanks of the Square attacked, to the fire from which it would consequently become completely exposed. The succeeding repeated the manoeuvre of the leading divisions; and their disorder became greater and greater as the continually augmenting obstacles in their front, the upset riders and horses, increased in multitude.
Here, as at Quatre Bras, the French Cavalry did not rush to the shock against a single British Square. The horsemen of the leading divisions who escaped the opposing fire, failed to maintain the direction of their speed with unabated vigour, and to dash against the Square, heedless of personal danger, and intent only upon securing the sole chance that offered for the success of their immediate followers. That portion of the Cavalry which passed through the intervals between the foremost Squares, directed their advance upon those that were in rear; and the Squares being generally en échiquier, the opening out and dividing of the attacking Squadrons in the manner described, soon commingled the horsemen of different Regiments, and added considerably to the disorder already caused by the dropping fire which assailed them in all directions.
The Anglo-Allied Cavalry, having the advantage of perfect order, now advanced to the charge; and after encountering some little resistance on different points, speedily succeeded in relieving the Squares from the presence of the Enemy, whom they pursued over the crest of the ridge and down the exterior slope.
No sooner was NEY's Cavalry driven from the position, than the Allied Artillerymen flew from their shelter to their guns, and the French Batteries recommenced their fire. The former dealt destruction amidst the retiring masses as soon as, and wherever, they were uncovered by the Allied Cavalry; but some of the British Regiments, giving too much rein to their ardour, carried their pursuit rather too far; particularly the 23rd British Light Dragoons; who, having attacked the Flank of a Column of Cuirassiers whilst the latter was advancing against the 1st Regiment of Dutch Carabiniers, by which it was then attacked in front--TRIP himself leading--drove both the Cuirassiers and a body of Lancers across the hollow on the right of La Haye Sainte, back upon their own Batteries on the Heights beyond, and thus created confusion amongst the French Gunners; who, however, made them pay for their temerity as they withdrew again towards their own position.
Towards the Allied Right, the Lancers, pursued by the 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, instantly reformed, and, resuming their charge, became themselves the pursuers; but on advancing over the ridge, they were not only exposed again to the fire from the Squares, but were at the same time most unexpectedly assailed by a brisk discharge of round shot from Captain BOLTON's British Foot Battery, which had just been rapidly advanced to its left front, and very judiciously posted on some favourable ground close to, and on the right of, the Nivelles road, and in direct rear of the main ridge. Its fire was directed with great precision at the French Cavalry in the intervals between the Squares in its front, and by its valuable assistance the Enemy was soon compelled to retire again across the ridge.
It will be readily conceived that such assistance was most essential, when it is recollected that, at this time, the 7th Hussars, the 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, the Brunswick Hussars, and the Squadron of Brunswick Lancers, were the only Cavalry Regiments posted in rear of that portion of the Front Line extending from the Nivelles road on the right, to the position of HALKETT's British Infantry Brigade on the left, in rear of which latter stood the 23rd Light Dragoons. The manner in which those Regiments charged and repelled the French Cavalry opposed to them, merits the highest commendation.
The French Cavalry evinced the greatest alacrity, nay, impatience, in again getting into order--actuated, no doubt, by a sense of shame and indignation at finding its efforts frustrated, and its valour fruitless; although in possession of the Enemy's guns, and at liberty to act at its own discretion against his Squares.
The advance was speedily renewed; but evidently conducted with more caution, though not with less enthusiasm. Again did this brilliant array of horsemen boldly face the iron shower of grape, and gallantly crown the crest of the Anglo-Allied Right Wing. But now, instead of attacking indiscriminately as before, one portion was allotted to that service; whilst the remainder was kept in more compact order to stem the onset of the Allied Cavalry, by which, on the former occasion, they had been so signally repulsed. The charges were repeated against the Squares, in the same style, and upon the same system, as before; and with an equally fruitless result. This portion of the attacking force became gradually exhausted and out of order: but the remainder appeared well formed up, and moving forward to charge the Second Line comprising Allied Cavalry; which, however, did not wait for the attack, but instantly advanced to meet it. The latter consisted of SOMERSET's Brigade on the left (greatly diminished by the effects of its former charge, on the occasion of the French attack of the Allied Left and Centre); of the 23rd British Light Dragoons, in rear of HALKETT's British Infantry Brigade; of TRIP's Dutch-Belgian Carabinier Brigade, in rear of the 23rd; of the Brunswick Hussars and Lancers, more to the right; of the 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, close to the Nivelles road; and of the 7th British Hussars, on the interior slope of that portion of the ridge which was immediately in left rear of Hougomont--a force scarcely amounting to half the number of Squadrons with which the French Cavalry had commenced this attack.
The charge was executed under great excitement, and with the utmost steadiness and gallantry. The struggle was desperate and sanguinary: but the French Cavalry, assailed in front by the same description of force, and on their flanks by the fire from the Squares, at length went about; and were followed, as before, over the ridge and down the exterior slope.
In rear of the Right of the Anglo-Allied Line, where, as previously observed, the Cavalry was then so very weak in numbers, the 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion had deployed into Line, in order to occupy more ground and show a greater front. As the French Lancers were attacking the Squares, and advancing through the intervals between them, notwithstanding the renewed fire from BOLTON's Battery, the Regiment hastened forward to charge them.
The Germans had not proceeded far when it was discovered that a body of the Enemy's Cavalry had penetrated to the open space on their left. With great presence of mind and admirable promptitude, Major REIZENSTEIN, who perceived the danger to which the Regiment was exposed by the already meditated attack upon its Left Flank, drew off a great part of it, and, with a right-shoulder-forward movement, advanced to meet these new assailants who were now coming on at full speed. The mutual impetuosity of the charge, and violence of the shock, were terrific. The two Lines dashed at and through each other, and those of the horsemen that were yet firm in their saddles, wheeling sharply round, again rushed to the fierce encounter with the most resolute bravery; and the dispersed riders, after rapidly exchanging cuts and thrusts, en passant, sought out their respective Corps.
As the Cavalry retired, the Infantry that had attacked La Haye Sainte desisted from their fruitless endeavours to force the gallant little garrison. Not long afterwards, Major BARING, on finding that the ammunition of his men had, by the constant firing, been reduced to less than one half, became apprehensive of its speedy exhaustion; and despatched an Officer to request a supply, which was promised to him. In the mean time, the Germans set about diligently repairing the injuries they had sustained, and making the best preparation in their power to meet the next attack.
Upon the first advance of the French Cavalry, by the Allied left of Hougomont, a body of Infantry Skirmishers crept along the boundary hedge of the Great Orchard on that side, and by thus turning the Flank of the 3rd Guards, who were at the same time assailed with renewed vigour in front, compelled them to retire into the hollow way in rear of the inclosure; but, as the Cavalry withdrew, so did the Light Troops on the left of the Orchard, and Lieutenant Colonel HEPBURN, advancing his men from their cover, drove back the French Skirmishers in the Orchard, and again occupied its front hedge.
The contest at this time, between the Allied Left, and the French Right, Wing was limited to a continued cannonade, with Light Troops skirmishing in the valley which separated the two positions. The Nassau troops, under Prince BERNHARD of Saxe Weimar, maintained their ground with great spirit along the Villages and inclosures upon the extreme Left of the Anglo-Allied Army.
GRANT, who, it will be recollected, had been detached with the 13th Light Dragoons and the 15th Hussars, to attack the 5th and 6th French Lancers, upon the extreme Left of the French Line, in consequence of certain menacing dispositions on their part, was first made aware that these had been merely a diversion to draw off a portion of the Allied Cavalry from the real point of attack, by the shouts which suddenly proceeded from their ranks; when, on turning round to ascertain the cause, he perceived the French in possession of the Batteries along the crest of the position, and charging the Squares posted on the interior slope. Observing a repetition of the attack, and the want of Cavalry on that part of the position which he had quitted; he most judiciously took upon himself to return to it with both Regiments: and, as will appear in the sequel, he arrived there at a most critical moment, when his absence might have produced the most fatal consequences. As a precautionary measure, the Right Squadron of the 15th Hussars, under Captain WODEHOUSE, was left in its original position, to observe the extreme Left of the French line; and the 2nd Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion continued to keep a look out between that point and Braine l'Alleud.
NAPOLEON, perceiving the necessity of affording an immediate Support to NEY's attack, sent an Order to KELLERMANN to advance for that purpose, with his Corps of Heavy Cavalry, consisting of the two Divisions commanded by L'HERITIER and ROUSSEL D'URBAL, and comprising (at the commencement of the Battle) seven Squadrons of Dragoons, eleven Squadrons of Cuirassiers, and six Squadrons of Carabiniers. In the mean time, NEY, with a similar object in view, had ordered forward GUYOT's Heavy Cavalry Division of the Guard, comprising six Squadrons of Horse Grenadiers, and seven Squadrons of Dragoons. These thirty-seven Squadrons, combined with the force which had already attacked, and which had originally consisted of forty-three Squadrons, constituted a stupendous array of Cavalry, in comparison with that which was then posted in rear of the Right Wing of the Anglo-Allied Army; and which received no accession beyond the five Squadrons that GRANT was in the act of withdrawing, as before explained, from the extreme Right.
GUYOT's Division of the Guard having been placed by NAPOLEON at NEY's disposal, when he first desired him to form the grand Cavalry attack, the Marshal was entitled to employ it if he thought proper; but it is doubtful whether NAPOLEON, after having sent forward KELLERMANN's Corps, was desirous that the combined force should be thus prematurely engaged, since it would deprive him of his only Cavalry Reserve. Still, when we consider the limited extent of the Field of Battle, and the consequent facility with which he might have either suspended the employment of the Heavy Cavalry of the Guard, or countermanded KELLERMANN's advance, it is reasonable to infer that the French Emperor was not altogether displeased with the grand experiment which was about to be made, and which encouraged the most sanguine expectations of a glorious triumph.
The coming attack was, like the former one, preceded by a violent cannonade. As before, the French Batteries concentrated their fire upon the Allied Artillery and Squares. The entire space immediately in rear of the crest of the ridge that marked the Front Line of the Duke's Right Wing, was again assailed with a tempest of shot and shell. Again were whole Files torn away, and compact Sections rent asunder.
But the extraordinary skill and the untiring energies of the British and German Gunners, combined with the heroic forbearance and the admirable steadiness of the Squares, fully impressed upon the mind of WELLINGTON the conviction that, however formidable and disproportionate the force that his powerful adversary could wield against him, it might yet be made to suffer an exhaustion, moral as well as physical, that would render it totally unavailable and helpless at the moment when its extremest tension and fullest application would be so urgently required to extricate the Emperor from that perilous crisis which, by his Grace's masterly arrangements, was gradually approaching its consummation. To act exclusively on the defensive, to maintain his ground in defiance of every assault and every stratagem; and yet to harass and weaken his Enemy to the extent of his power, constituted the grand point on which hinged the practical development of those arrangements. A defeat and dispersion of his Army before the arrival of the Prussian troops, would lead to new measures, to additional sacrifices--perhaps to irretrievable disasters. But his resolve was fixed and irrevocable; for he knew that he could fearlessly rely upon the devotion, the endurance, and the valour of his British and German soldiers. And this implicit confidence was nobly reciprocated; for as the troops remarked the serenity of his countenance and demeanour when rectifying any confusion or disorder, or felt as if spellbound by the magic influence of a few simple and homely words from his lips, they entertained no doubts as to the result of their glorious exertions.
When the tremendous Cavalry force, which NEY had thus assembled, moved forward to the attack, the whole space between La Haye Sainte and Hougomont appeared one moving glittering mass; and, as it approached the Anglo-Allied position, undulating with the conformation of the ground, it resembled a sea in agitation. Upon reaching the crest of the ridge and regaining temporary possession of the Batteries, its very shouts sounded on the distant ear like the ominous roar of breakers thundering on the shore. Like waves following in quick succession, the whole mass now appeared to roll over the ridge; and as the light curling smoke arose from the fire which was opened by the Squares, and by which the latter sought to stem the current of the advancing host, it resembled the foam and spray thrown up by the mighty waters as they dash on isolated rocks and beetling crags; and, as the mass separated and rushed in every direction, completely covering the interior slope, it bore the appearance of innumerable eddies and counter currents, threatening to overwhelm and engulf the obstructions by which its onward course had been opposed. The storm continued to rage with the greatest violence; and the devoted Squares seemed lost in the midst of the tumultuous onset. In vain did the maddening mass chafe and fret away its strength against these impregnable barriers; which, based upon the sacred principles of honour, discipline, and duty, and cemented by the ties of patriotism and the impulse of national glory, stood proudly unmoved and inaccessible. Disorder and confusion, produced by the commingling of Corps, and by the scattering fire from the faces of the chequered Squares, gradually led to the retreat of parties of horsemen across the ridge; these were followed by broken Squadrons, and, at length, the retrograde movement became general.
Then the Allied Dragoons, who had been judiciously kept in readiness to act at the favourable moment, darted forward to complete the disorganisation and overthrow of the now receding waves of the French Cavalry.
The Allied Artillery had barely time to fire a few rounds into the retiring masses, when the Enemy's formidable Support rapidly advanced to renew the attack; and, as if it had been made aware that the Right of the Anglo-Allied Line was the weakest part, from the want of a sufficient Cavalry Support, its efforts appeared particularly directed to that point. A body of Heavy Dragoons was drawn up in Line, and advanced up the ridge leaving the Hougomont inclosures immediately on its left.
At this moment, however, GRANT had most opportunely returned with the 13th Light Dragoons and 15th Hussars from the extreme Right; and instantly forming the 13th, which was the leading Regiment, in Line to the front, moved it up to the crest of the ridge, over which it gallantly charged and routed the French Dragoons, driving them about three hundred yards down to the low ground near the north-east angle of the Great Orchard of Hougomont. The 15th Hussars were also formed to the front, on the left of the 13th Light Dragoons, and charged a mass of Cuirassiers, which was driven back a like distance, upon large bodies of Cavalry. As these were observed commencing offensive operations, both in front and on the flank, the two Regiments, first the 13th, and then the 15th; were compelled to retreat to the main position, and take post in rear of the Squares; but this they did with so much order and regularity that their presence and example imparted new life and confidence to the young Brunswickers; whose steadiness, on the Right of the Line, had been severely tested in the course of the grand Cavalry attack.
Notwithstanding these reverses, and the decided failure of their former attempts, the French horsemen most gallantly and resolutely renewed their advance, and again plunged in masses amidst the Allied Squares. Failing in their direct attack, they rode through the intervals between the Squares in all directions, exhibiting extraordinary coolness and intrepidity. Some of the most daring approached close up to the ranks, to draw forth the fire from a Square; and thus secure a better chance of success for the Squadron prepared to seize the advantage and to charge. Small parties of desperate fellows would endeavour to force an opening at some weak point, by cutting aside the bayonets and firing at the defenders with their pistols. But the Squares were proof against every assault and every stratagem.
More Cavalry crossed over the summit of the ridge; and the greater part of the interior slope occupied by the Allied Right Wing seemed covered with horsemen of all kinds--Cuirassiers, Lancers, Carabiniers, Chasseurs, Dragoons, and Horse Grenadiers. The French, enraged at their want of success, brandishing their swords, and exciting one another by shouts of "Vive l'Empereur!" reiterated their attacks with redoubled but fruitless vigour. Like the majestic oaks of the forest, which are poetically said to strike their roots deeper and more tenaciously into the earth as the fury of the storm increases, so stood the Anglo-Allied Squares, grand in the imposing attitude of their strength, and bidding defiance to the tempestuous elements by which they were assailed on every side.
At length, the attack evinced symptoms of exhaustion; the charges became less frequent and less vigorous; disorder and confusion were rapidly augmenting; the spirit of enthusiasm and the confidence of superiority were quickly yielding to the feeling of despondency and the sense of hopelessness. The Anglo-Allied Cavalry again advanced, and once more swept the mingled host, comprising every description of mounted troops, from off the ground on which they had so fruitlessly frittered away their strength.
On this occasion, a body of Cuirassiers, having been intercepted in its direct line of retreat by a party of British Light Dragoons, was induced to surrender; but taking advantage of the weakness of their escort, they suddenly broke away, and galloped down the Nivelles road, by which they hoped to return to the French Lines. They were fatally deceived. As they passed the high bank, covered with brushwood, on the right of the road, where a Detachment of the 51st Regiment was stationed as one of the Supports to the Light Troops extended in front of the extreme Right, they were fired upon, though but partially, in consequence of their close pursuit by the Light Dragoons. This attracted the attention of Captain Ross of that Regiment, who was posted with his Company more in advance, and close to the abatis which had been thrown across the road near the head of the Avenue leading to Hougomont. Captain Ross, being thus prepared, also fired upon the Cuirassiers; whereupon their Commanding Officer, finding all further retreat effectually cut off by the abatis, surrendered to Captain Ross, declaring that he would not give himself up to the Dragoons. At this spot eighty of the Cuirassiers and twelve of their horses were killed; and the remainder, about sixty, were dismounted, taken, or dispersed.
* * * * *
Shortly before this, NEY, perceiving the ill success of his Cavalry attacks, determined on combining them with such Infantry as he had at his disposal. Between D'ERLON's and REILLE's Corps there was now a great interval, and the only troops of which he could make use for the above object, consisted of BACHELU's Division, on the right of the latter, as DONZELOT's Division, on the left of the former, was still required for the attack upon La Haye Sainte, which he now ordered to be vigorously renewed, whilst he advanced a heavy Column of BACHELU's Infantry towards the Centre of the Allied Right Wing.
WELLINGTON, who had, from the first, anticipated that the attacks of Cavalry would be followed up by others, in which that Arm would be combined with Infantry, was fully prepared to meet this contingency, having as soon as he had ascertained that the Enemy was not disposed to attempt any serious movement against his Right Flank, despatched an Order to CHASSÉ to evacuate Braine l'Alleud and its vicinity, and to proceed with his Dutch-Belgian Division, towards the principal scene of action, along the low ground through Merbe Braine. By this means, his Grace, who contemplated reinforcing his First Line with troops from his Second, would be enabled to supply their place in the latter with others of equal strength. CHASSÉ's movement, executed with much judgement, was in a great measure, if not entirely, concealed from the Enemy's observation; and was very skilfully covered by the 2nd Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, who continued hovering near the Left Flank of the French Army.
In the mean time, the attack upon La Haye Sainte had been renewed with the same fury as before. Major BARING on perceiving the advance of the Enemy's Columns, sent an Officer to the position with this intelligence, and repeated his request for ammunition. The Light Company of the 5th Line Battalion of the King's German Legion was sent to his assistance; but the supply of ammunition, of which he stood so much in need, was not forthcoming: and he therefore, after waiting half an hour longer, during which the contest was uninterrupted, despatched another Officer on the same errand. This application proved equally unsuccessful. He received, however, a reinforcement of two Flank Companies from the 1st Regiment of Nassau.
The great struggle was again at the open entrance to the Barn; and the French, finding all their efforts to force an entrance so obstinately and successfully frustrated, had recourse to the expedient of setting the place on fire. A thick smoke was soon observed issuing from the Barn. The greatest consternation pervaded the little garrison; for although there was a pond in the yard, there were no means at hand for conveying the water to the point of danger. Major BARING, whose anxiety was extreme, glancing his eye at the large camp kettles borne by the recently arrived Nassauers, instantly pulled one from off a man's back: several Officers followed his example, and filling the kettles with water, carried them in the face of almost certain death, to the fire. The men hesitated not a moment. Every kettle was instantly applied to the same good office, and the fire was fortunately extinguished; though at the sacrifice of many a brave soldier. Several of the men, although covered with wounds, rejected all persuasion to retire. Their constant reply was, "So long as our Officers fight, and we can stand, we will not stir from the spot." At length the Enemy, wearied out by this most resolute and gallant defence, once more withdrew.
At the commencement of this attack, while one portion of the Enemy's force was principally directed against the western entrance of the Great Barn; the other, leaving the Buildings on its right, advanced higher up the slope, as if intending either to penetrate the Farm by the Garden, or to cut off its communication with the main position.
The Prince of ORANGE, conceiving this to be a favourable opportunity for attacking the French Column, ordered the 5th and 8th Line Battalions of OMPTEDA's Brigade of the King's German Legion to deploy and advance. The Line was quickly formed; and the Battalions, bounding across the narrow sunken road, rushed forward, at a charging pace, driving the Enemy before them. But a body of Cuirassiers, that had unsuccessfully charged the Left Squares of KIELMANSEGGE's Hanoverian Brigade, whilst those Battalions were advancing, came upon the Right Flank of the latter, unexpectedly for both parties. The 5th Line Battalion, which was on the right, having been supported in sufficient time by SOMERSET's Heavy Cavalry Brigade, suffered little loss; but the 8th Line Battalion--being on the left, and more in advance, in the act of charging when the Cuirassiers appeared--was completely surprised, and its Right Wing cut down and dispersed. The Commanding Officer of the Battalion, Colonel SCHRÖDER, was mortally wounded: several other Officers fell: Ensign DE MOREAU, who carried and defended the King's Colour, having been severely wounded, as also the Serjeant who afterwards held it, the Enemy succeeded in carrying off the prize. Major PETERSDORF, the next in command, collected the scattered remnant of the Battalion, and posted it in rear of the hollow way.
The moment the Anglo-Allied Right Wing became cleared of the presence of the French Cavalry, it was again exposed to a furious cannonade. Several of the guns along the main ridge were by this time disabled. Major BULL, who had been obliged at an earlier period to withdraw his Howitzer Battery to the Second Line for the purpose of repairing casualties and completing ammunition, advanced again to his former post in the Front Line, along with Major RAMSAY's Horse Battery, during the Second general Charge of the French Cavalry. These Batteries suffered severely from PIRÉ's guns, stationed on the extreme Left of the French Line. BULL directed Lieutenant LOUIS to turn his two right guns towards them, and it was not long before this Officer succeeded in silencing them; a service which, as they enfiladed the Allied Right Flank, was of considerable advantage, during the remainder of the Battle, to all the Batteries and troops in this part of the Field.
The Duke, considering that a reinforcement of Artillery was particularly required in front of COOKE's Division and the Brunswick Infantry against which the Enemy was evidently preparing fresh attacks, ordered up Lieutenant Colonel DICKSON's British Horse Battery, commanded by Major MERCER, and Major SYMPHER's Horse Battery of the King's German Legion, into the Front Line: the former, to the left of Lieutenant Colonel SMITH's Horse Battery, in front of the Brunswickers; and the latter further to the left.
Major MERCER's Battery had barely time to get into action, when a heavy Column of Cavalry, composed of Horse Grenadiers and Cuirassiers, was seen ascending the ridge, and advancing at a rapid rate directly towards the spot upon which it had taken post. The guns, which were nine pounders, were each loaded with a round and a case shot; and were run close up to a bank of two or three feet in height, which descended from the narrow cross road along the ridge, and which thus formed a sort of genouillère to the Battery. In front, the summit of the ridge consisted of a flat surface, of forty or fifty yards in width, whence the ground descended rapidly towards the plain that divided the two Armies. The Column continued to advance until it came quite close upon these guns, the muzzles of which were nearly on a level with the cross road; when it suddenly recoiled from the very destructive fire with which it was received. The horsemen of the leading Squadrons faced about, and endeavoured to force their way to the rear; confusion ensued, and the whole mass broke into a disorderly crowd. Several minutes elapsed ere they succeeded in quitting the summit of the ridge, during which the fire from the Battery was incessant; and, from the shortness of the distance, the size of the objects, and the elevation of the ground on which they stood, the consequent carnage was truly frightful. Many, instead of seeking safety in retreat, dashed through the intervals between the guns, and surrendered: but the greater part, rendered desperate at finding themselves held, as it were, in front of the Battery, actually fought their way through their own ranks; and, in the struggle, blows were exchanged on all sides. At length, the wreck of this formidable Column gained shelter under the slope of the ridge, leaving the summit encumbered with its killed and wounded.
About the same time, a strong Column of French Infantry, supported by Cavalry, was advancing against the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Right Wing. Whilst the opposed Batteries were concentrating upon it a vigorous fire, Lord UXBRIDGE brought forward SOMERSET's Heavy Cavalry Brigade from its position on the right of the Charleroi road, for the purpose of attacking this Column; and also ordered up, in support, TRIP's Dutch-Belgian Carabinier Brigade. The attack was made with great gallantry by the Household Cavalry, which succeeded in checking the advance of the Enemy; but, having been so much reduced in numbers, it was unable to penetrate the Column, which received it with a heavy fire. As SOMERSET retired; the French Cavalry by which the Column had been supported, prepared to advance.
TRIP's Dutch-Belgian Cavalry was now at hand. UXBRIDGE, pleased with their fine appearance, and desirous of exciting in them a courageous enthusiasm, placed himself conspicuously in their front, and ordering the "Charge," led them towards the Enemy. He had proceeded but a very short distance, when his Aide de Camp, Captain HORACE SEYMOUR, galloped close up to him, and made him aware that not a single man of them was following him. Turning round his horse, he instantly rode up to TRIP, and addressed himself to this Officer with great warmth. Then, appealing to the Brigade in terms the most exhorting and encouraging, and inciting them by gestures the most animated and significant, he repeated the Order to charge, and again led the way in person. But this attempt was equally abortive; and UXBRIDGE, exasperated and indignant, rode away from the Brigade, leaving it to adopt any course which its Commander might think proper: and as the French Cavalry, to which this hesitation was but too manifest, was now advancing rapidly to the attack, the Dutch-Belgians went about, and retired in such haste and disorder that the two Right Squadrons of the 3rd Hussars of the King's German Legion experienced the greatest difficulty in maintaining their ground, and avoiding being carried along to the rear by these horsemen in the wildness of their flight.
The 3rd Hussars had just moved up into the Second Line, in rear of KRUSE's Nassau Brigade, when this occurred; and the Left Squadron, being free from any interruption of the kind, gallantly charged and completely overthrew that portion of the Cuirassiers which was in its immediate front. As soon as the other two Squadrons had recovered their order, which had been so unexpectedly disturbed by the fugitive Dutch-Belgians, the whole Regiment advanced to the crest of the position; where it received from Lord UXBRIDGE, in person, the Order to charge a Line of French Cavalry, distant about 150 yards, and consisting of about three Squadrons of Cuirassiers and three Squadrons of Heavy Dragoons. Commencing the charge with a steady trot, and then plunging into a gallop, they broke through the Enemy's Line, which was advancing at a short trot, or almost at a walk; but became so completely turned and hemmed in upon their flanks and rear, that a vast proportion of them was cut off. The remainder, dispersed, and pursued by the French Cavalry, rode back to the Infantry Squares, in rear of which the Regiment reformed. Here the great loss which it had suffered in these two attacks become manifest. It was reduced to between sixty and seventy Files, which were formed into two Squadrons, and posted in rear of KIELMANSEGGE's Hanoverian Brigade.
About this time, the Earl of UXBRIDGE, on examining the state of his Cavalry, perceived the Cumberland Regiment of Hanoverian Hussars at some distance in the rear, on the Brussels road. He immediately ordered them forward; and on their coming up, he posted them where they were by no means much exposed, but where they would at least appear to fill a gap occasioned by the severe losses experienced by SOMERSET's and PONSONBY's Brigades: for the manner of their Commanding Officer, whilst being thus posted, rendered his Lordship doubtful of their continuing there if attacked.
That he had reason to apprehend something of this kind, was subsequently proved; for Colonel HAKE, on finding the shot flying about him a little, took himself and his Regiment out of the Field: on discovering which, Lord UXBRIDGE despatched his Aide de Camp, Captain HORACE SEYMOUR, with an Order for his return. When Captain SEYMOUR delivered this Order, the Colonel remarked that he had no confidence in his men, that they were Volunteers, and that their horses were their own property. The Regiment continued moving to the rear; notwithstanding Captain SEYMOUR's repeating the Order to halt, and asking the Second in Command to save the honour and character of the Corps, by placing himself at its head and fronting the men. Finding his remonstrances produced no effect, he laid hold of the bridle of the Colonel's horse, and commented upon his conduct in terms such as no man of honour could have been expected to listen to unmoved. This Officer, however, appeared perfectly callous to any sense of shame; and far more disposed to submit to those attacks upon his honour than he had been to receive those of the Enemy upon his person and his Regiment. Upon rejoining the Earl of UXBRIDGE and relating what had passed; Captain SEYMOUR was again directed to proceed to the Commanding Officer, and to desire that, if he persevered in refusing to resume his position in the Line, he would, at least, form the Regiment across the high road, out of fire. But even this Order was disregarded, and the Corps went altogether to the rear, spreading alarm and confusion all the way to Brussels.
In front of the Right of the Anglo-Allied Line, the French Column of Horse Grenadiers and Cuirassiers, which had met with so disastrous a repulse from Major MERCER's Horse Battery, was reformed for another attack; to meet which the British Gunners were fully prepared: for the French horsemen had not retired so far down the hill but that the high caps of the Horse Grenadiers of the leading Squadrons, were visible above the brow of the exterior slope. The second attempt was preluded by a cloud of Skirmishers, who, advancing to within a very short distance of the front of the Battery, did considerable mischief to the Gunners with their carbines and pistols; but their intention being evidently to draw forth their fire, no notice was taken of them.
Then the Column again ascended the ridge, and advanced to attack the Battery; but on this occasion their pace scarcely exceeded a walk, or at most a gentle trot, too many obstacles lying in their way to admit of more rapid movement without confusion. Experience having shown the Gunners the destructive effects of a close fire, they allowed the leading Squadrons to attain about half the distance between the brow of the slope and the narrow road in their front before they commenced. The result, as may be readily imagined, was precisely similar to that of the former attack, which has already been detailed. Again the French horsemen fell into confusion, and again for several minutes were they exposed to a deliberate and an unerring fire of case shot, within a distance of not more than twenty yards, so that the pile of killed and wounded, left on the ground immediately in front of the Battery, before great, was now enormous.
Other Batteries along this part of the position were equally successful in repelling the attacks of the Enemy's Cuirassiers, who were assembling in considerable numbers at the foot of the exterior slope, close to the Hougomont inclosures, apparently with the object of cutting off the direct communication with that Post, and forcing the Right of the Allied Front Line. The moment seemed favourable for such a project. Several of the Allied guns had by this time become completely disabled; the 2nd Battalion of the 3rd British Guards, awfully reduced, had been driven into the hollow way in rear of the Orchards of Hougomont; the young Brunswick Infantry had suffered severe losses; and the supporting Cavalry had become greatly exhausted by its repeated charges.
But WELLINGTON, foreseeing the probability of a serious attempt upon this weakened point of his Line, and perceiving the approach of CHASSÉ's Division (see page 458), supplied the required remedy by desiring Lord HILL to bring forward troops from the Second Line. The zeal, intelligence, and activity which had ever characterized the Hero of Almaraz and Arroyo del Molino when carrying out the designs of the Chief under whom he had acquired a lasting fame, seemed but to wait this summons to the more immediate scene of action, to appear again in all their accustomed vigour. He immediately put in motion DU PLAT's Infantry Brigade of the King's German Legion. As the latter advanced across the Nivelles road, from its left, the 2nd Line Battalion became the leading Column. It was followed by the 4th, then by the 3rd, and lastly by the 1st Line Battalion. As the 2nd approached the crest of the ridge, several Gunners ran in upon it for shelter from the Enemy's Cuirassiers, whose main body was now advancing against this Battalion. The four Light Companies of the Brigade, however, had just posted themselves close to the three small trees near this part of the crest of the ridge; and being armed with rifles, they delivered so destructive a fire into the Cavalry as to compel it to withdraw.
Some of the Allied Cavalry then moved forward in pursuit, and DU PLAT's Brigade continued its advance until the 2nd Line Battalion had approached close to the hedge of the Great Orchard of Hougomont, whence a dropping fire was opened upon the Germans by the French Skirmishers. The Dragoons made a sudden and rapid retreat through the intervals of the Columns, in left front of which a fresh Line of hostile Cavalry now presented itself. Captain SYMPHER, who, with his Horse Battery of the Legion, had accompanied DU PLAT's advance, instantly unlimbered; and poured round shot through the intervals of the Columns, the latter maintaining, at the same time, a very effective independent file fire. The Cuirassiers gallantly advanced, notwithstanding this formidable resistance. They first became exposed to a flank fire from the left face of the 4th Line Battalion Square, and then again to that from the left face of the 3rd Line Battalion: nevertheless, they resolutely attacked the Battery, the Gunners of which either flew to the last mentioned Square for protection, or sought shelter under the carriages. At length, after having suffered severe losses by the unremitting fire from the nearest Squares, the French Cavalry retired in disorder; receiving a renewed discharge from the Battery, which was again in full play.
When DU PLAT's Brigade moved down the slope, the 2nd and 3rd Light, and 2nd Line, Battalions of the Brunswickers, advanced a short distance over the crest of the ridge, in left rear of the former. Here they became exposed to a destructive fire of both artillery and musketry, the latter from the French Skirmishers that had crept from along the eastern hedge of Hougomont, close under the brow of that part of the Anglo-Allied position. They withstood this heavy fire, as also the subsequent charges of Cavalry, with great steadiness and courage; but as soon as the French horsemen were driven back by a portion of the Allied Cavalry (consisting of the 23rd British Light Dragoons, the 1st Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, and the Brunswick Hussars and Lancers), the above mentioned Battalions withdrew from their exposed situation to the interior slope.
The French Skirmishers, who had, during this last attack by their Cavalry, pushed forward a very considerable force through the Great Orchard of Hougomont, and along its eastern boundary, now concentrated a most galling fire upon the Squares of the Legionary Brigade, whose Commander, DU PLAT, was mortally wounded; several Officers fell, and all those that were mounted had their horses shot under them. The fire ceased; and in the next moment the Cuirassiers, having rallied, renewed their charge: but with no greater success than before; and a third charge proved equally ineffectual against the determined bravery and patient endurance of the soldiers of the Legion.
About the time that DU PLAT's Brigade moved into the First Line, a considerable body of French Cuirassiers, which still remained in the hollow westward of La Haye Sainte, exposed to a fire from one or two of the Allied Batteries, advanced at a walk, to make another effort to break the Right Centre of WELLINGTON's Line. This proved as unsuccessful as the previous attacks. The Squares, reserving their fire until the close approach of the hostile Cavalry, and then directing it against the latter in the most cool and deliberate manner, which the absence of all impetus in an attack at a walk enabled them to do with unerring effect, soon compelled the shattered Squadrons once more to withdraw from a contest which the unexampled steadiness of the Allied Infantry had rendered almost hopeless on their part.
The French Cavalry that attacked the Squares of DU PLAT's Brigade, immediately in rear of Hougomont, had no sooner been driven off by the gallant resistance of the Germans, than the Skirmishers, who, as before observed, had advanced in such numbers along the eastern inclosures of that Post, crept close up under the brow of that part of the ridge on the interior slope of which was posted the main body of the Brunswick Infantry.
At this time, however, Lord HILL was bringing forward ADAM's British Light Infantry Brigade, having directed it to cross the Nivelles road, and to advance in Columns up the slope, in rear of the Brunswickers. (The Brigade had, some time before, been moved from the plateau on the right, close to the edge of the Nivelles road, in which position it had continued in immediate reserve.) Suddenly the summit in its front was crowded with the French Skirmishers, who were almost as quickly concealed by the smoke from the rattling fire which they opened upon the Allied Artillery and the Squares. The Gunners, whose numbers were fearfully diminished, were speedily driven back from their crippled Batteries upon the nearest Infantry; upon which the concentration of this galling fire threatened the most serious consequences.
But succour was at hand. WELLINGTON, in the midst of the shower of bullets, had galloped to the front of ADAM's Brigade, ordered it to form Line, four deep; and then, pointing to the daring Skirmishers on the Height, called out, with perfect coolness and unaffected assurance, "Drive those fellows away!" With loud cheers, the Brigade moved rapidly up the slope, eager to obey the Duke's command. From the want of sufficient space, the 52nd Regiment was not formed in Line with, but in rear of, the 71st and 2nd Battalion of the 95th Regiment, to which it consequently served as a Support. The French Skirmishers began to give way as the firm and intrepid front of the Brigade presented itself to their view. ADAM continued his advance, driving the French Infantry before him. On crossing the ridge, the Brigade brought forward its right shoulders, and, when halted, it stood in a slight hollow; which, commencing in front of the right of the position occupied by MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards, descends towards the north-east angle of the Great Orchard of Hougomont. At the former point the 2nd Battalion of the 95th Regiment formed the Left; and at the latter, the 71st Regiment with the two Companies of the 3rd Battalion of the 95th Regiment formed the Right, of this Line. The Enemy's Cavalry having been perceived preparing for attack, the Battalions of the Brigade formed Squares: and as the interval between the 71st and the 2nd Battalion 95th Regiment, in this new position, was larger than was desirable; Colonel Sir JOHN COLBORNE moved down the 52nd Regiment, in Squares of Wings of Battalions, to fill up the space; which he reached just in time to throw a most effective oblique fire upon the Cavalry which was in the act of attacking the 71st Regiment.
The French Carabiniers and Horse Grenadiers of the Guard made some gallant attacks upon the Brigade. They generally advanced by their right of the Hougomont inclosures, then fell upon the 71st Regiment, by which their charge was invariably broken; when such portions of them as continued in any degree of order, rushed onward in apparent infatuation upon the Right Wing Square of the 52nd Regiment; from the front and right faces of which they received a close, well directed fire, which completed their disorder and confusion.
In one of these attacks, Major EELES, whose Company of the 3rd Battalion 95th Rifles was attached to the 71st Regiment, upon observing the approach of the Carabiniers towards the right angle of the front face of the Square, moved his Company to the right, in line with the rear face, and, placing himself in its front, prevented his men from firing until the Carabiniers approached within thirty or forty yards of the Square; when he ordered a volley, which, combined with a cross fire from the 71st, brought down so many horses and men to the ground, at the same moment, that the further progress of the charge was most effectually frustrated. In an instant, one half of the attacking force was on the ground; some few men and horses were killed; more were wounded; but by far the greater part were thrown down over the dead, the dying, and the wounded. These, after a short interval, began to extricate themselves from the mass, and made the best of their way back to their Supports; some on horseback but most of them on foot.
ADAM's Brigade, by means of the advanced position which it thus occupied, along the space between the Hougomont inclosures and the right front of MAITLAND's Brigade, presented an effectual barrier to the advance of the French Cavalry against that portion of the Allied Front Line which was situated upon the right of the latter point. In the intervals between the charges of Cavalry, it suffered severely from the Enemy's Artillery; more particularly the 71st Regiment, and 2nd Battalion 95th Rifles, the position of these Regiments being somewhat more exposed than that of the 52nd.
HALKETT's Hanoverian Brigade had moved from its present position, near Merbe Braine, into the space within the angle formed by the Nivelles road and the hollow way which leads from the Right of the Front Line down into the low ground below Hougomont; and it was shortly after ADAM moved into his forward position, that HALKETT advanced, with the Landwehr Battalions Osnabrück and Salzgitter, and took post on the exterior slope of the main ridge, in rear of DU PLAT's Brigade.
* * * * *
It was now about six o'clock. The formidable attacks made by the French along the entire Line of the Anglo-Allied Army had been productive of no positive advantage; the Advanced Posts of Hougomont and La Haye Sainte had successfully resisted the furious assaults which had hitherto been directed against them: and the forward position taken up by ADAM's British Brigade, made it manifest to the French Emperor that, notwithstanding the gallantry, enthusiasm, and devotion displayed in those attacks by the finest troops he had ever assembled together, headed, too, by Generals of the highest celebrity; still greater efforts, and still greater sacrifices must be made if he hoped to drive the British lion from the position which it yet proudly retained with so firm a footing, before the Prussian eagle, which for some time past had hovered over, and was at this moment darting at, his extreme Right, should alight, in the plenitude of its force, to satiate its thirst for vengeance in the fierce and sanguinary struggle.
NAPOLEON sent an Order to NEY to renew the attack upon the Centre. To execute this with effect, however, fresh Infantry was requisite; and the Marshal had none at his disposal. He therefore despatched his first Aide de Camp, Colonel HEYMÈS, to represent to the Emperor the exhausted condition of his troops: half of which were placed hors de combat, and the other half overcome by fatigue, and failing in ammunition; and to request he would send him reinforcements. At this moment, however, LOBAU's Corps and the Young Guard were required for the security of the French Right Flank against the offensive operations of the Prussians; consequently, the Battalions of the Old Guard, which constituted the only remaining Reserve of Infantry, could not be spared. To NEY's demand for fresh troops, NAPOLEON therefore replied,--"Ou voulez vous que j'en prenne? Voulez vous que j'en fusse?"
NEY, on being made acquainted with the manner in which his request had been received, saw very plainly that the Battle was far from being gained: and darted off to animate, by his presence, the attack which was now renewed upon La Haye Sainte; and which was covered by a vigorous fire from the French Artillery against that portion of the Anglo-Allied Line immediately in rear of this Post, in order to disturb any attempt to relieve or assist its defenders.
The united remains of SOMERSET's and PONSONBY's Brigades, which were on the reverse slope, behind OMPTEDA's Brigade of the King's German Legion, and which were extended in Single File for the purpose of making a show of force, suffered much from this cannonade. On perceiving its effects, Lord UXBRIDGE sent an Aide de Camp to recommend Lord EDWARD SOMERSET to withdraw his men from the range of the Enemy's guns. The latter sent back word that, were he to do so, the Dutch-Belgian Cavalry, who were in support, would immediately move off the Field! SOMERSET retained his position until the end of the Battle.
Shortly before the Columns from DONZELOT's Division advanced to this attack of La Haye Sainte, a party of Horse Artillery, which had been detached from WHINYATES's Rocket Battery, proceeded, under Captain DANSEY, along the Charleroi road, to the front of the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line, and came into action with rockets, near that Farm, leaving its two guns in the rear, under Lieutenant WRIGHT.
Captain DANSEY very soon received a severe wound, which obliged him to retire; and the party, after firing a few rockets, fell back a little, to where its horses were standing. It was then commanded by a Serjeant (DANIEL DUNNETT), who, on perceiving the advance of the nearest French Column towards the Farm, dismounted his men as coolly and deliberately as if exercising on Woolwich Common, though without any Support whatever; laid rockets on the ground, and discharged them in succession into the mass--every one of them appearing to take effect. The advance of the Column was checked, and was not resumed until Sergeant DUNNETT, having expended all his rockets, retired with his party to rejoin the guns in rear.
Major BARING's Detachment, after its extraordinary and successful exertions in repelling the previous assaults, was fearfully reduced in numbers; but its excellent spirit and conspicuous bravery remained unshaken. One circumstance, however, could not fail to render unavailing all their efforts, their courage, and their endurance. Notwithstanding Major BARING's urgently repeated applications for a supply of ammunition, his men were still left without the means of adequately defending their Post against the host of enemies by which they were successively assailed.[12] They cheerfully repaired, as far as practicable, the gaps made in the walls by the French Artillery, and betrayed no despondency as they looked upon the sad and numerous proofs that lay around them of the immense sacrifices they had already made. But when, upon counting the cartridges, they discovered that they had not, upon an average, more than from three to four each, their consciousness of the desperate situation to which they were reduced, and of the impossibility of holding out under such circumstances, led to remonstrances, which their gallant Commander could not but admit to be reasonable. Yet no sooner did the latter, upon perceiving two French Columns again advancing towards the Farm, exhort them to renewed courage, and also to a careful economy of the ammunition, than he received the unanimous reply,--"No man will desert you,--we will fight and die with you!"
The French, exasperated by the protracted resistance of this handful of brave defenders, now came on with redoubled fury. The open end of the Great Barn was first assailed. Again they succeeded in setting the building on fire; but the Germans, having recourse to the same expedient as on the previous occasion, again contrived to extinguish the flames. BARING's anxiety and uneasiness increased with every shot that was fired by his men; and he again sent to the rear for ammunition, coupling his demand with a distinct report, that he must and would abandon the place should no supply be forthcoming. This message, however, proved equally ineffectual. The fire of the garrison was gradually diminishing: perplexity was depicted in every countenance: many of the men now called out urgently for ammunition,--"We will readily stand by you, but we must have the means of defending ourselves!" Even their Officers, who during the whole day had displayed the greatest courage, represented to their Commander the impossibility of retaining the Post under such circumstances.
The French, who failed not to observe the distressing situation to which the defenders were reduced, now boldly broke in the door at that end of the long western building which is nearest to the entrance of the Great Barn, already so frequently assailed. The passage from the door through the building into the Farm yard having been barricaded, but few of the Enemy could enter at a time. These were instantly bayoneted, and the rear hesitated to follow. They now climbed up the outer wall of the long building, and mounted the roof, from which they easily picked off the defenders; who, not possessing the means of retaliation, were completely at their mercy. At the same time, they pressed in through the open Barn, which it was impossible to defend any longer. BARING was now reduced to the painful necessity of abandoning the place, and gave the Order to retire through the Dwelling House into the Garden. Many of the men were overtaken in the narrow passage through the House by the victors, who vented their fury upon them in the lowest abuse and most brutal treatment.
BARING having satisfied himself that the possession of the Dwelling House by the Enemy must render the Garden quite untenable; and finding that his Officers fully agreed with him on this point, he made the men retire, singly, to the main position. The greater part of them, accompanied by their brave but disconsolate Commander, descended into the high road by an opening in the bank adjoining the north-east angle of the Garden, and retired along the opposite side of the chaussée.
BARING sent back to their respective Regiments the remains of the reinforcements he had received; and, with the few men that were left of his own Battalion, he attached himself to two Companies of the 1st Light Battalion of the King's German Legion, which were then posted in the hollow way close to the right of the high road.
The surrender of La Haye Sainte, under the circumstances which have been described, was as purely honourable, as its defence against an overwhelming and furious host had been heroically brave. A thorough conviction that further resistance must have been marked by the sacrifice of the entire remnant of his courageous band at once suggested to the mind of a Commander like BARING, gifted with the requisite discernment and forethought of a true soldier, the reservation of such gallant spirits for some other part of the great contest; in which they might yet face their enemies, if not on equal terms, at least in a manner that would render their bravery and devotion not altogether unavailable in the general struggle for victory.
* * * * *
Loud and reiterated shouts of triumph having announced to the French Emperor the capture of La Haye Sainte; he immediately ordered it to be followed up by a vigorous attack upon the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line, and by a simultaneous renewal of the assault upon Hougomont.
It was quite evident to NEY, that without an additional force of Infantry, it would be impossible for him to follow up, with effect, the advantage which he anticipated from the capture of La Haye Sainte. The Cavalry, which NAPOLEON had placed at his disposal, had been nearly annihilated in the course of its numerous attacks upon the Anglo-Allied Line,--attacks executed throughout with the greatest gallantry, but unproductive of any solid or decisive result upon a single point of that Line. If this Arm, comprising the flower of the chivalric Cavalry of France, had failed him when it sallied forth, gaily exulting in the freshness of its vigour, proudly conscious of the imposing attitude of its masses, and unrestrainedly impatient for the onslaught which was to exalt still more its already high renown; how could he calculate upon its efficacy, now that it was comparatively paralyzed?
The state to which his Infantry was reduced presented a prospect almost as cheerless. D'ERLON's Corps, severely crippled by its signally unsuccessful attack upon the Anglo-Allied Left Wing and Centre, had still further exhausted its force by repeated assaults against La Haye Sainte, on its left; and, since the arrival of BÜLOW, it had been compelled to resort to active precautionary measures on its right. On the other hand, REILLE's Corps had suffered immense losses in its incessant, yet unavailing, efforts to gain possession of the important Post of Hougomont.
But NEY, le plus brave des braves, in whose character resolution and perseverance were pre-eminent, was not to be deterred by this discouraging aspect, from fulfilling, to the best of his abilities, the task imposed upon him by his Imperial Master. There can be but little doubt that at the time he made his urgent demand upon the Emperor for a fresh supply of Infantry, he had projected an assault upon the Anglo-Allied Right Wing, in accordance with that prominent feature in the tactics of the Empire,--the Column of Attack in mass of Battalions--to be supported by his Cavalry, whilst this Arm still continued vigorous and effective. Now, however, his exhausted means precluded the execution of such a plan of attack; and he therefore had recourse, as far as was practicable with his reduced extent of force, to another system, which had been attended with so much success in the time of the Republic, and which had always found great favour with the French soldiery--the grand attack en Tirailleurs. In this way he would be better enabled to conceal the weakened condition of his troops; and he might also succeed in making such an impression upon some important point of the Allied Line, as would induce the Emperor to seize upon the advantage gained, and, launching forth his Reserve, strike the decisive blow.
The whole of DONZELOT's Division, supported by a part of ALIX's Division, as also a considerable body of Cuirassiers, forming the gallant remnants of entire Regiments, were put in motion against the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line; whilst fresh reinforcements were poured down from REILLE's Corps into the Hougomont inclosures.
The first disposition made by the captors of La Haye Sainte, was to avail themselves of the advantage which the possession of the Farm House, the Garden, and the adjacent high bank, afforded them for pouring a commanding fire upon the two Companies of the 95th British Rifles which occupied the Knoll by the Sand Pit on the opposite side of the road; when these, being at the same time pressed in front, finding their Post no longer tenable, retreated upon their main body in the Wavre road.
The French at the same time contrived to push two guns round by the Garden hedge to the bank of the high road, and immediately opened a fire of grape upon KEMPT's Brigade posted along, and in rear of, the Wavre road, on the opposite side of the chaussée; but this was speedily silenced by the 1st Battalion of the 95th British Rifles, who, taking a deliberate aim at the Artillerymen, destroyed them before they could discharge a second round.
There then issued from under cover of the Farm, a large body of Infantry, which, as it ascended the main ridge, spread out into a very close Line of Skirmishers, who pressed boldly forward against the Left of ALTEN's Division. Their concentrated fire was telling fearfully upon the devoted Squares. ALTEN sent an Order to OMPTEDA to deploy one of his Battalions, if practicable, and advance against the Enemy.
OMPTEDA, as brave and high minded a soldier as ever graced the profession of arms, was quite prepared to execute the Order: but being fully aware, from previous observation, that in the hollow behind the curtain formed by the Tirailleurs there lay in wait a body of the Enemy's Cavalry; he felt it his duty to represent the imminent risk which was likely to attend such a movement.
At this moment of hesitation, the Prince of ORANGE rode up to OMPTEDA and ordered him to deploy. The latter respectfully submitted the same opinion he had before expressed to ALTEN's messenger; whereupon his Royal Highness became impatient, repeated the Order, and forbade further reply. OMPTEDA, with the true spirit of a soldier, instantly deployed the 5th Line Battalion, placed himself at its head, and gallantly led it against the mass of Tirailleurs, who had continued to crowd forward; and under whose teazing fire the Germans displayed the greatest steadiness and bravery. The French gave way as the Line advanced at the charge; and as it approached the Garden of La Haye Sainte, they suddenly and rapidly sought shelter along the hedges. In the next moment, the Battalion was furiously assailed by a Regiment of Cuirassiers; who, taking the Line in its Right Flank, fairly rolled it up. This Cavalry charge, preconcerted with great skill, and executed with amazing rapidity, proved awfully destructive to the courageous but unfortunate Germans; and fully, and fatally, confirmed the truth of the unheeded prediction of their intrepid Commander. So severe was the loss sustained, that out of the whole Battalion, not more than about thirty men with a few Officers were gradually collected in the hollow way that lay along the front of the Left of the Brigade. Amongst the slain was OMPTEDA himself, who with his followers, thus fell a sacrifice to the absence of that precaution, the necessity for which he had vainly endeavoured to impress upon his superior Officer.
Whilst the French Cuirassiers were cutting and stabbing in all directions, and completing their work of destruction amidst the unfortunate Germans; the 95th British Rifles, who, from the other side of the high road, had been attentive observers of the scene, had already taken aim at the Cuirassiers, but had refrained from firing, fearing to injure their friends, at length poured in amongst them a terrific volley, just at the very moment when the 3rd Hussars of the King's German Legion advanced to the rescue of their compatriots: which sent both sides flying, and completely cleared the front of OMPTEDA's Brigade.
Shortly afterwards the 3rd Hussars again advanced: but the Support of the Cuirassiers having, in the mean time, ascended the slope: the former, so inferior in numbers, were brought to a stand; and, after a brief struggle, were compelled to withdraw.
A mass of Tirailleurs now ascended by their left, from the hollow westward of La Haye Sainte (in which hollow they could assemble in comparative security since the capture of that Post by the French), and pushed forward with great boldness against the Advanced Square of MAITLAND's British Brigade, formed by the 3rd Battalion of the 1st Foot Guards. Their fire, concentrated upon the Square and maintained with astonishing rapidity and vigour, was most galling to the British Guards. Also upon their left, another portion of their numbers poured a destructive fire upon the Left Square of ADAM's Brigade, formed by the 2nd Battalion of the 95th Rifles.
MAITLAND, perceiving the serious annoyance which his 3rd Battalion experienced from the fire of the French Skirmishers, directed Lieutenant Colonel D'OYLEY, who commanded it, to advance for the purpose of dislodging them; and being well aware that some of the Enemy's Cavalry were drawn up near the foot of the slope, he threw the flank faces of the Square into sections, in which order the Battalion moved forward, being thus prepared to reform Square with the greatest expedition. Under a tremendous fire from the opposite French Batteries, which had perceived this movement, the Guards gallantly drove the Skirmishers down the slope; and so marked was their steadiness on this occasion, that a body of French Cavalry, which was now observed approaching, struck with the promptitude and precision with which the gaps caused in their ranks by the round shot were closed, neither assaulted them in their advance nor molested them in their retreat to their position on the brow of the hill, which was effected in perfect order. The Cavalry, though it refrained from attacking, received the fire of the Guards; and then, dashing along the front of the 52nd Regiment, it exposed itself to another vigorous fire by which it was nearly destroyed.
Of all the troops comprising the Anglo-Allied Army at Waterloo, the most exposed to the fierce onslaught of the French Cavalry and to the continuous cannonade of their Artillery, were the two British Squares posted, during a very great portion of the Battle, in advance--at times, considerably so--of the narrow road which ran along the crest of the Duke's position. They consisted of the 3rd Battalion of the 1st Guards, belonging to MAITLAND's Brigade; and of the 30th and 73rd Regiments acting together as one Corps, belonging to HALKETT's Brigade. It was upon these troops that fell the first burst of the grand Cavalry attacks; and it was upon these troops, also, that the French Gunners seldom neglected to pour their destructive missiles, so long as they continued to constitute, by their exposed position, such prominent marks for their fire.
An attack upon the Square of the Guards by Skirmishers has just been described; and it was not long after this that the Square of the 30th and 73rd was attacked by some French Artillery, which trotted boldly up the slope directly in front of those Regiments, and having approached within a fearfully short distance, unlimbered two of its guns, from which several rounds of grape were discharged in rapid succession, into the very heart of the Square. Awful gaps were made in its devoted ranks; but the readiness and alacrity with which they were filled up, at the commands of their Officers, by men prepared to share the same fate as that which had befallen their predecessors, was truly heroic. That an occasional murmur broke forth, cannot be denied--not, however, at their exposed situation, but at the stern refusal to allow them to charge the guns; near which the French Cavalry was hovering, ready to take advantage of any such attempt.
The Duke was frequently an eye witness of this devotedness of his soldiers; but when asked for support, his reply was that there was none to spare; or, if for permission to attack, that this could not be granted; and, if any intimation were made to him that it might become necessary to fall back a little out of fire, it was met, in a cool and decided tone, that every man must stand his ground, and that there must not even be a semblance of retreat.
* * * * *
The reinforcements from REILLE's Corps having moved to Hougomont, the Skirmishers in and around this Post were relieved upon all points. The Wood, as also the fences on either flank, soon swarmed with Tirailleurs; and the brisk rattle of musketry that followed, intermingled with shouts of "En avant!", seemed to betoken a determination on the part of the French that the capture of La Haye Sainte should not be their only triumph achieved in front of the Anglo-Allied Army. Everywhere the assault was bravely met by the gallant defenders of the Post. The Flank Companies of the Guards, within the walls and buildings, held at defiance every attempt of their assailants to dislodge them from their cover. By this time, all the outhouses were on fire, with the exception of those that fronted the Wood. The roof and upper storey of the Château had fallen in, and flames continued bursting forth on all sides with the greatest fury. The heat had become so intense as to produce upon the men whose duty brought them within its influence, a feeling of suffocation; while the frequently emitted volumes of thick smoke gave an indistinctness to every object around them. Yet so admirable was the system of defence, so perfect were the discipline and the order, maintained throughout this trying scene by the devoted garrison, that the Enemy completely failed in forcing an opening at any one point. The well maintained fire from the walls was such as to deter the French from attempting an escalade.
Whilst the central portion of the TIRAILLEURS kept up an incessant fire from behind the hedge and trees facing the south buildings and the Gardens, the remainder pressed on in crowds against the inclosures by which the Post was flanked. On the right, the 2nd Battalion of the Coldstream Guards, lining the hedge that bordered the main approach to the Château, successfully withstood this furious onset. On the left, the 2nd Battalion of the 3rd Guards, in the Orchard, having suffered such frightful losses, found it impossible to stem the overwhelming torrent, and speedily fell back upon its friendly hollow way. The French Tirailleurs, pushing forward in pursuit, were staggered by the sudden and vigorous fire opened upon them by the troops within the eastern Garden Wall; and the 3rd Guards having, in the mean time, been reinforced by the 2nd Line Battalion and the Light Companies of du Plat's Brigade, drove the Enemy back to the front hedge of the Orchard; whence they were shortly, in their turn, compelled to retire.
Again the flank fire from the eastern Garden Wall, combined with that in front from the defenders of the Orchard, as they reached the rear hedge, compelled the Enemy to fall back. The 3rd Guards once more lined the front hedge; and also, in conjunction with the Light Troops of DU PLAT's Brigade, and the remains of both the Brunswick Advanced Guard Battalion, and the 1st Battalion of the 2nd Regiment of Nassau, forced the entrance into the Wood near the south-east angle of the Garden Wall, and firmly established themselves in that quarter.
At the commencement of this last mentioned attack upon Hougomont, the Right of ADAM's Brigade was considered too near the inclosures of that Post, and exposed to be taken from thence in flank. It was therefore withdrawn further up the slope, towards the crest of the main position; and after a brief interval, it retired to the reverse slope in order to be covered from the Enemy's cannonade which had been directed against it.
* * * * *
It was now nearly seven o'clock. The troops defending Hougomont and its inclosures had succeeded in repelling the last assault; and the contest in and around this Post again degenerated into a tiraillade kept up with more or less vigour on all points. Along the front of the extreme Right of the Anglo-Allied Line, the Skirmishers from MITCHELL's British Infantry Brigade maintained their ground with great steadiness and gallantry. The main body of the Brunswick Infantry stood on the interior slope, in rear of ADAM's Brigade; and CHASSÉ's Dutch-Belgian Infantry Division, which had arrived from Braine l'Alleud, was deployed along, and in rear of, the Nivelles road, its Centre intersected by the narrow road leading from the chaussée to the Village of Merbe Braine, which position it had taken up on the advance of ADAM's Brigade to the general Front Line. In front of the Anglo-Allied Left, the Skirmishers of both Armies were continually engaged; and upon the extreme Left the troops in Smohain, La Haye, Papelotte, and adjacent inclosures, successfully resisted all attempts of the Enemy to dislodge them.
The attack upon the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line had been incessant from the moment La Haye Sainte fell into the possession of the French. On their left of the Charleroi road, they debouched from that Farm and ascended the position in clouds of Skirmishers. One portion of them crowded upon the artificial mound which abutted upon the high bank of the road, and was situated about sixty yards only in front of the hollow way occupied by OMPTEDA's Brigade. On the opposite side of the Charleroi road, the fire from the French troops on the Knoll above the Sand Pit was maintained with remarkable rapidity and perseverance. They continued, as before, to conceal themselves as much as possible under the brow of the Knoll, exposing only so much of their bodies as was necessary to enable them to fire over its crest in a kneeling position. This fire was replied to with the greatest spirit and determination on the part of KEMPT's and LAMBERT's Brigades. On the Allied right of the high road, the exhausted remnant of OMPTEDA's Brigade was no longer a match for the daring Tirailleurs that crowded together in its front. Its stock of ammunition had begun to fail; many who had not a cartridge left fell to the rear, and more than the usual number assisted the wounded out of action.
Exposed as ALTEN's Division had been to the most furious assaults of Artillery, Cavalry, and Infantry; the British and German Brigades of which it was composed had become awfully diminished; and the facility which the possession of La Haye Sainte now afforded the French for continuing their desperate endeavours to force that part of the Allied Line, rendered the situation of these troops extremely critical. ALTEN, who had throughout the day displayed the same coolness, intrepidity, and skill, which had characterised his career in the Peninsular War; and who, by his presence and example, had so powerfully sustained the energies of his men, was not permitted to witness the closing scene of their glorious exertions: for about this time he was wounded, and compelled to quit the Field; leaving the command of the Division to his gallant countryman KIELMANSEGGE.
At a short distance in rear of LAMBERT's Brigade stood that of PACK (with the exception of the 1st Royal Scots, then in Front Line), in Contiguous Columns at quarter distance, its Right resting on the high road; while further to the rear, as a Reserve, was posted VINCKE's Hanoverian Brigade, having two of its Battalions, Hameln and Gifhorn, in contiguous Close Columns on the left of the road, and the other Battalions, Piene and Hildesheim, in a similar formation, on the right of the road, near the Farm of Mont St Jean.
The pertinacity and zeal displayed by the French in their attacks upon the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line, and the indications now manifested of following them up with increased force, were in accordance with NAPOLEON's great object of breaking that Centre, and overthrowing the Right Wing of the Duke's Army: and for the execution of this latter part of his plan, he was preparing to strike another formidable blow; even now that the Prussians were fairly aux prises with the troops constituting the extreme Right of his Army in and around Planchenoit.
But previously to entering into the subject of the concluding scene of the struggle between the Anglo-Allied and French Armies, it will be necessary to revert to the operations of the Prussian Forces, in order to arrive at a full and comprehensive development and due interconnection of all the leading features and various bearings of the great Battle, the result of which was to determine the issue of the Campaign in Belgium.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 12: Two different causes have been assigned for the non-compliance with Major BARING's requisitions for ammunition; namely, the interception of the communication between the Post and the main Line and the difficulty in procuring rifle ammunition. The first appears scarcely tenable; for, although the communication was frequently cut off by the French, as they passed by the Farm when attacking the main position, it was as frequently open and available. This is sufficiently proved by the different reinforcements that were sent into the Farm: ammunition might have been escorted thither with equal facility; and yet BARING had made three distinct applications for a supply before the Nassau Detachment was added to his force. The difficulty of procuring rifle ammunition certainly appears a more probable cause; but, even in this case, it is impossible to overlook the circumstance that the Post in question was immediately in front of the Brigade to which its defenders belonged, and of which two out of the four Battalions composing it were armed with rifles.
Since the above was written it has been communicated to me from Hanover, upon excellent authority, that the cause of Major BARING not having been supplied with ammunition arose from the circumstance, that there existed only one cart with rifle ammunition for the two Light Battalions of the King's German Legion; and that this cart was involved in the precipitate retreat of a great part of the baggage, &c., and thrown into a ditch.]
Chapter XIII
Blücher's dispositions for the grand Flank movement of his Army towards the Field on which WELLINGTON had announced to him his intention of accepting Battle from NAPOLEON, provided he might calculate on the Marshal's assistance, were fully described in Chapter VIII. Reconnoitring parties and Patrols had been pushed forward, early in the day, to feel for the Left of the Anglo-Allied Army, the communication with which was successfully established. It then became desirable to explore the ground that lay more to the Right Front of the Prussians, in the direction of the Right Flank of the main French Army, in order to ascertain the nature of any precautionary measures adopted by NAPOLEON to impede the junction of the Allied Commanders. Major LÜTZOW, of the Staff, was sent upon this duty, with a Detachment of the 2nd Silesian Hussars; and on reaching the Wood of Paris, he not only found this unoccupied, but discovered that no steps whatever had been taken by the French to cover and secure their Right Flank. A Prussian Troop of Hussars advanced beyond the Wood of Paris, to a point near Frischermont, whence it had a good view of both the French and Allied dispositions and movements; and where it was not even menaced by the approach of any hostile party.
As Major LÜTZOW, fully alive to the importance of speedily occupying the Wood of Paris, was returning to communicate the above intelligence to the Prince, he met General GROLMAN, the Quartermaster General of the Army, to whom he immediately represented how matters stood: when this Officer directly pushed forward the Silesian Hussars and two Battalions of Infantry from BÜLOW's Advanced Guard, to take possession of the Wood; these troops having fortunately just crossed the Defile of St Lambert. GROLMAN at the same time sent a message to the Prince, suggesting that the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Brigades should be ordered to follow the Advanced Guard as soon as they should be collected on the French side of the Defile.
Great as had been the difficulties hitherto encountered along the Prussian line of march, the passage of the Defile of St Lambert seemed to present an almost insurmountable obstacle. The rain which had set in during the afternoon of the 17th, and had continued without cessation the entire night, had transformed the valley of the Lasne into a perfect swamp. The miry and watery state of the roads between Wavre and St Lambert had caused so many stoppages and breaks in the Columns that they were frequently lengthened out for miles.
BLÜCHER showed himself on every point of the line of march, encouraging his exhausted soldiers, and inciting them to renewed efforts. The troops, after a short halt to collect their scattered ranks, entered the Defile. As the ground yielded to their pressure, both Cavalry and Infantry became dispirited; and when the Artillery were fairly checked by the guns sinking axle deep, and the men, already worn down by fatigue, were required to work them out, their murmurs broke forth in exclamations of--"We cannot get on."
"But we must get on," was old BLÜCHER's reply; "I have given my word to WELLINGTON, and you will surely not make me break it: only exert yourselves a few hours longer, children, and certain victory is ours." This appeal from their venerated Chief was not made in vain: it served to revive the drooping energies of the wearied, and to stimulate still further to successful exertion the more robust and able bodied.
At length, after considerable delay and constant difficulty, the passage of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Brigades, as also of the Reserve of both Cavalry and Artillery, was accomplished; and by four o'clock these troops had ascended the opposite slope of the valley, and reached the plateau of the ridge which, constituting the narrow interval between the Lasne and the Smohain, with a rapid fall on either side towards those streams, presented a comparatively dry and firm soil favourable for the further operations of the Prussian forces in this direction.
As the troops reached the Wood of Paris, they were disposed, with a considerable front, and in a close compact order, on each side of the road leading from Lasne towards Planchenoit. The Artillery kept the road itself; and the Cavalry was drawn up in rear of the Wood, ready to follow the Infantry.
The Thirteenth and Fourteenth Brigades were expected to join in a short time; and PIRCH's Corps was following along the same line. It had been BLÜCHER's intention to await the arrival of these troops, and then to debouch with the assembled force; but having watched the progress of the Battle, he became apprehensive, on perceiving the tremendous cannonade, and the renewed attack after four o'clock, that the Enemy might direct a still greater force against WELLINGTON's Line, and succeed in breaking the latter before he commenced the attack on his side of the Field. He could clearly distinguish NAPOLEON's Reserves, in rear of La Belle Alliance, evidently prepared for being launched against the Anglo-Allied Line, which had already sustained the most desperate attacks. The frequent and pressing communications he had received from the Duke also showed how anxiously the latter relied on his support. These considerations satisfied the Prince, that the moment had arrived in which his appearance on the Field would be productive of consequences the most favourable to the views of his Ally, and the most influential on the development of their combined exertions; and he now gave the Order for the attack to commence, even with the small amount of force then at his disposal, as also for the hastening of the march of the troops still in the rear.
* * * * *
It was half past four o'clock when the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Brigades debouched from the Wood of Paris; the former on the right, the latter on the left; and each in the usual Brigade formation for advance peculiar to Prussian tactics. The direction of the attack was perpendicular to the Right Flank of the French Army; and consequently, also, to the Charleroi road, which constituted the French main line of operation.
In order to cover the Left Flank, Colonel HILLER, commanding the Sixteenth Brigade, detached both the 3rd Battalions of the 15th Regiment and the 1st Silesian Landwehr, under Major KELLER, to keep a look out in that direction as far as the rivulet of the Lasne; beyond which, Major FALKENHAUSEN was scouring the country with one hundred Horsemen of the 3rd Regiment of Silesian Landwehr Cavalry.
General LOSTHIN, commanding the Fifteenth Brigade, detached three Battalions towards Frischermont and Smohain, to cover the Right Flank. They were the 2nd Battalion of the 18th Regiment, and the 3rd Battalion of the 3rd Silesian Landwehr, followed by the 1st Battalion of the former Regiment.
DOMON's Cavalry continued drawn up en potence, and was at a considerable distance from the Prussian Advance, when BLÜCHER ordered a cannonade to open upon it; more with a view to make known his arrival to the Anglo-Allied Army, and to induce the French to withhold the employment of a still greater force against the latter, than from any motive affecting his own immediate operations at the moment.
DOMON now sent forward a Regiment of Chasseurs à Cheval to attack the Prussian Column, whilst he followed with his whole Line. Hereupon the 2nd Silesian Hussars and the 2nd Neumark Landwehr Cavalry moved through the intervals of the Infantry, and formed up in front; the Hussars to the left, and the Landwehr to the right. They then advanced, followed by the 3rd Silesian Landwehr Cavalry in support, and drove back the French Chasseurs; but becoming menaced in flank, and observing DOMON's whole Line advancing, they were, in their turn, compelled to retire. This movement was covered by the Horse Battery No. 11; and more particularly by Captain SCHMIDT's Foot Battery of the Fifteenth Brigade, which drew up to oppose the pursuit of the French Cavalry. The vigorous fire which continued to be maintained by both these Batteries, combined with the advance of the Prussian Infantry Columns, induced DOMON to decline following up his attack at the moment.
The three Battalions already mentioned as having been detached to the right, had, by this time, reached Smohain. Their advance in that direction had been conducted with so much caution, that they debouched from the south-eastern inclosures of the Village most unexpectedly for both the Allied troops in that vicinity, and the Infantry forming the extreme Right of the French Front Line. The Prussians continued to advance; crossed the principal fence which separated them from the French extreme Right, and drew up in Line almost at right angles with the direction of the Enemy's front--two Battalions in Line, with the third in support. It was half past five o'clock when this took place.
The French at once advanced against them; whereupon the Prussians retired, and after regaining the hedges in the valley, lined the latter as Skirmishers, and maintained a vigorous and successful tiraillade with their opponents.
In the mean time NAPOLEON, judging from the boldness of the Prussian Advance, that considerable support was at hand; and apprehensive, no doubt, of the evil consequence likely to arise from that Advance, if not promptly and effectually checked, had ordered the Sixth Corps, under Count LOBAU, to move forthwith to the right from its reserve station in rear of La Belle Alliance; and, in conjunction with DOMON's Cavalry, to take up a position favourable for repelling the attack by which he was menaced on that side of the Field.
BLÜCHER, observing this disposition, the execution of which was effected with great rapidity and in good order, proceeded to give a broader and more imposing front to his own troops. He extended his Right Flank to the wooded Heights of Frischermont, and rested his Left upon a ravine descending to the Lasne, close to the Wood of Virère. The Reserve Cavalry, under Prince WILLIAM of Prussia, was put in motion, in two Columns, towards the Left Flank; on which it was subsequently formed up.
When LOBAU's Corps moved off to the right, the Regiments of the Old and Middle Guard advanced and took up the position, in reserve, which it had occupied on the Heights in rear of La Belle Alliance.
As LOBAU's Corps advanced and passed DOMON's Cavalry, the latter was disposed as a Support. Having crossed the valley which, commencing from the ridge above Planchenoit, on the north side of the Village, descends towards Smohain, he opened a brisk fire from his guns upon BÜLOW's Line. A spirited cannonade ensued, in the course of which the Prussian Foot Battery No. 14 had three guns disabled.
It was not long, however, before the remaining Brigades of BÜLOW's Corps, the Thirteenth and Fourteenth, came up. Their Batteries hastened to the front, and materially increased the force of the Prussian fire.
BLÜCHER, who had now the whole of BÜLOW's Corps at his disposal, was bent upon following up his original intention of directing his attack against the Enemy's Rear. With this view he made the Sixteenth Brigade take ground to its left, and brought up the Fourteenth Brigade in its rear, as a Support; whilst at the same time he supplied the place of the former in the Line by posting the Thirteenth Brigade on the left of the Fifteenth. General HACKE, who commanded the Thirteenth Brigade, detached the 1st and 3rd Battalions of the Second Neumark Landwehr to the right, in support of the troops in Smohain. A portion of this Detachment occupied Frischermont, thus obtaining an appui for the Prussian Right Flank, and securing the communication with the Prince of SAXE WEIMAR's Brigade, posted along the inclosures in front of the extreme Left of the Anglo-Allied Army. This Flank was also covered by the West Prussian Uhlans and the 2nd Neumark Landwehr Cavalry, that had been detached from the Reserve Cavalry of the Fourth Corps under Prince WILLIAM of Prussia; which was following, as a Support, the Left Wing of BÜLOW's Line, now advancing in the direction of Planchenoit. The Artillery along the Prussian Line had by this time assumed a formidable appearance, the following Batteries of the Corps having come successively into action,--the twelve pounder Batteries Nos. 3 and 5, the six pounder Batteries Nos. 2, 13, 14, and 21, and the Horse Batteries Nos. 11 and 12--comprising altogether sixty four guns.
The ground over which BÜLOW's Corps was now in the act of advancing, was highly favourable for the development of a force destined to attack the Flank of an Army, the Front of which was so completely aux prises with the Enemy as was that of the French at this moment. Nearly at all points it commanded the position occupied by the French Right en potence; the Line was remarkably well appui'd on the Flanks; and its Front was parallel with the Enemy's main line of operation.
* * * * *
The force which LOBAU had at his disposal was greatly inferior to that of the Corps he was sent to oppose. The former amounted to fifteen Battalions, twenty one Squadrons, and forty two guns--the latter (exclusive of the six Battalions and eight Squadrons detached to the right) consisted of thirty Battalions, twenty seven Squadrons, and sixty four guns. He could not present a Front sufficiently extensive and compact that would secure him from being turned in either Flank. Hence, when he perceived that the principal force in this well planned attack was advancing from the Prussian Left, in the direction of Planchenoit, which then lay in his right rear, unoccupied by any French troops; he felt the necessity of retiring towards the Charleroi road, which he did by withdrawing his Brigades en échiquier.
It was not long before several round shot from the Prussian Batteries reached the Charleroi road; some of them falling both in front and rear of La Belle Alliance, where NAPOLEON was then stationed. It was evident to the latter that, unless reinforcements were despatched in support of LOBAU, his Right Flank, already so seriously menaced, would speedily be turned. His trusty Guard with which, in former Campaigns, he had so frequently succeeded in stemming the current that had suddenly set in against him from some previously hidden source and threatened to overwhelm him, constituted the sole Reserve at his disposal. Engaged during so many hours in carrying on a desperate attack along his whole Front, without having as yet secured one single point of vantage ground; he clearly foresaw that without some vigorous effort, by aid of a powerful Reserve, no ray of victory would ever gleam upon his arms on that side of the Field. But now that he was also engaged in defensive operations along his Right, against another Enemy, by whom even his Rear and the main line of his retreat became endangered; the necessity of employing a portion of this Reserve in a direction different from that which he had contemplated, was alike obvious and urgent.
The appearance of BÜLOW's Left bearing down upon Planchenoit, turning LOBAU's Right; and the powerful Batteries along the Prussian Front admirably disposed in accordance with the favourable nature of the ground, over which the whole Line was gradually approaching; distinctly indicated the immediate possession of that Village in force, as the true and only measure that could be adopted for averting the impending danger. The two Divisions of the Young Guard, posted on the plateau on the right of the chaussée close to Rosomme, and consisting of four Battalions of Voltigeurs, and four Battalions of Tirailleurs, were the nearest at hand for the occupation of Planchenoit; and NAPOLEON accordingly desired General DUHESME instantly to march thither with that force, accompanied by twenty four pieces of cannon of the Guard, and place himself on the right of LOBAU's Corps.
It was about this time (six o'clock) that NAPOLEON replied to NEY's demand for fresh Infantry, Ou voulez vous que j'en prenne? Voulez vous que j'en fasse? an expression, the force of which is rendered sufficiently obvious by the critical circumstances of his position.
* * * * *
It was also at this period that BLÜCHER received intelligence that THIELEMANN was attacked by a superior force at Wavre, and that it was doubtful whether he would be able to maintain his ground. But the determination of the Prince to carry out his present plan of attack was fixed and irrevocable. He saw clearly that it was on the Field where he himself stood that the fate of the Campaign must be decided; and that by giving the fullest effect in his power to the combined operation which he had preconcerted with WELLINGTON, and which was already developing itself with so fair a prospect of success, he was pursuing the right and only course by which the main Army of NAPOLEON could be overthrown--a course founded upon the leading principle of all strategy, that of bringing the greatest mass to bear upon the decisive point. He immediately gave Orders that THIELEMANN should be directed to hold out as well as he could, and to dispute every inch of ground with his opponents. At the same time, he desired BÜLOW to continue pressing forward with his Left, and to gain possession of the Village of Planchenoit.
Colonel HILLER, who commanded the Sixth Brigade, formed the latter into three Columns of Attack. Two Battalions of the 15th Regiment, under Major WITTIG, marched on the right against the Village; two Battalions of the 1st Silesian Landwehr, under Major FISCHER, in the centre; and two Battalions of the 2nd Silesian Landwehr, under Lieutenant Colonel BLANDOWSKY, formed the Left Column. The Fourteenth Brigade followed as a Reserve, sending forward the 1st Battalions of the 11th Regiment and 1st Pomeranian Landwehr as a Support to the Columns of Attack.
In the mean time the troops of the Young Guard had occupied Planchenoit, and made their dispositions for its defence. As the Skirmishers that preceded the Prussian Columns approached the eastern inclosures of the Village, they were received with a most destructive fire by the French Tirailleurs. Some pieces of Artillery were also brought to bear directly upon the Columns; which, nevertheless, advanced with great bravery and steadiness, captured a howitzer and two guns, and gained possession of the Churchyard. The occupation of this spot, which is naturally strong, being inclosed within a low stone wall, strengthened nearly all round by a steep outer bank, and commanding by its elevated position a very considerable portion of the Village, appeared to offer great security to the Prussian troops; but the Young Guard, evidently prepared for this contingency, flew to the surrounding houses and gardens, whence they opened a concentrated fire upon the possessors of the Churchyard. To this the latter replied with great spirit; and as the distance by which the hostile parties were separated was extremely limited, numbers fell in rapid succession on both sides. At length the French Supports having come up and joined in this contest, and one of the Columns having shown itself in rear of the Prussians; the latter were compelled to abandon the advantages they had acquired, and to withdraw altogether from the Village.
They were followed by some of LOBAU's Cavalry; which, however, having fallen into the line of fire of the Prussian Battery, No. 2, was forced to retire.
The Prussian troops that had been driven out of Planchenoit immediately rallied and reformed. The 2nd Battalions of the 11th Regiment and 1st Pomeranian Landwehr now joined their respective 1st Battalions, which had previously acted in support of the attacking Columns, and advanced to a second assault, followed by the 15th Regiment.
NAPOLEON, perceiving the determination of the Prussian Commander to persevere in his attack upon Planchenoit, as also his dispositions for completely turning the French Right, ordered General MORAND, Colonel in Chief of the Chasseurs à pied of the Old Guard, to march to the Village with a Battalion from each of the 2nd Regiments of Grenadiers and Chasseurs. These Battalions reached the scene of action just as the Prussians had re-entered the Village; and taking the lead in the contest, succeeded in driving them out of the place, pursuing them as far as their main position on the opposite Heights. Here the French Skirmishers penetrated amongst the Prussian Batteries; but were overthrown and cut up by the 4th Squadron of the 2nd Silesian Hussars. The French Cavalry now showed a disposition to advance; and it was not long before a Regiment of Lancers, which took the lead, was attacked and defeated by the 8th Prussian Hussars. In following up the pursuit, however, after their charge, the Hussars were suddenly involved in the fire from a Battalion of French Infantry, and were forced to fall back. On the other hand, a Regiment of French Chasseurs à Cheval was driven off in a similar manner by a Prussian Battalion.
By the advance of the Sixteenth and Fourteenth Brigades against Planchenoit, a vacant space had been created in the Prussian Line between those troops and the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Brigades, which still maintained their ground with great gallantry, in the open Field on the right. This vacant space was now covered by the main body of the Reserve Cavalry of BÜLOW's Corps, commanded by Prince WILLIAM of Prussia; which by its perfect steadiness and good countenance, not only induced the Enemy to confine himself to the defensive, but advanced in support of the Prussian Infantry, even in the midst of the opposing musketry fire, and here occupied the place which, had the Line been complete, would have been held by Infantry. On this occasion, the loss of the Prussian Cavalry was considerable. The Brigadiers, Colonel Count SCHWERIN, and Lieutenant Colonel WATZDORF, were killed. The latter although previously wounded, would not quit the Field; and was soon afterwards struck by a shot which deprived the Prussian Army of a very distinguished Officer.
NAPOLEON, observing preparatory dispositions for a renewal of the attack on Planchenoit by BÜLOW, who was only waiting for the co-operation and support of PIRCH's Corps which was now rapidly approaching, deemed it advisable to send a further reinforcement to the troops in the Village. This consisted of the 1st Battalion of the 2nd Regiment of the Chasseurs of the Guard, under General PELET; to whom he represented the great importance of maintaining possession of Planchenoit. At the same time, Orders were sent to the 1st Battalion of the 1st Regiment of the Chasseurs of the Guard, which was with the Emperor's baggage at Caillou, to march to the Wood of Chantelet, for the purpose of covering the right of Planchenoit, and securing the Village from being turned.
The situation of NAPOLEON had become critical in the extreme. The Prussian attack seemed to be checked for the moment; and the occupation of Planchenoit in sufficient force held out the prospect of a protracted, if not a successful, struggle in that quarter, should the attack be renewed. Still it must have appeared sufficiently evident to the Emperor that BLÜCHER was but awaiting either the arrival of an additional portion of his Army, or the favourable moment when he might combine his attack with a simultaneous one by WELLINGTON. Should the Prussian General succeed in defeating the troops comprising the French Right en potence, NAPOLEON's line of retreat by the Charleroi road would be completely intercepted, and his main Front Line being thus taken in Flank and Rear, would become an easy prey to the Anglo-Allied Army. He might yet attempt a skilful retreat upon Nivelles; but with an Army so exhausted by its repeated and ineffectual attacks upon WELLINGTON's unshaken Line, this would have been a hazardous operation.
It is, moreover, very questionable whether the idea of retreat ever entered into his views; for a retreat, after such sacrifices had been made, harassed and interrupted as it undoubtedly would be by the two hostile Armies which had succeeded in effecting a junction, must prove no less disastrous than a signal defeat, and equally involve the downfall of his military and political power. Hence his desperate resolve to peril the fate of his brave Army and of his resuscitated Empire upon another and a final struggle for victory over WELLINGTON; whose troops had, with such truly heroic courage and such inflexible endurance, successfully withstood the most furious attacks which he had repeatedly launched against them during the whole day. By a victory alone, no matter how dearly purchased, could he hope to keep alive the national enthusiasm which he had again awakened: but which would assuredly relapse into irrecoverable apathy, should the prestige of returning glory be torn from the idol of the military portion of his subjects, and the Empire become again exposed to be overrun by those foreign legions that had once more taken up arms with a firm resolve finally to crush a power, the existence of which was incompatible with the security and independence of the States of Europe.
As the prospect of the consequences of failure thus flashed across his mind; NAPOLEON, like a desperate gambler, driven to his last stake, determined to risk his all upon another venture. The meditated blow was to be struck against his bold antagonist, WELLINGTON; whose Line was to be attacked along its entire Front by a simultaneous effort, while its Right and Centre were to be forced at all hazards.
He immediately ordered General Count DRUOT to collect all his Battalions of the Guard that were still in reserve, in front of La Belle Alliance. These were accordingly moved forward from their position near the house of DE COSTER; and the two Battalions of the 1st Regiment of Grenadiers, which had previously been stationed on the Height in rear of La Belle Alliance, were now destined to form a Reserve to the attacking Columns.
D'ERLON and REILLE were at the same time ordered to advance the whole of the remaining disposable force against the Enemy, with a view to second the main attack. The Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line, immediately in rear of La Haye Sainte, was not to be allowed a moment's respite from the attacks which continued to be made against it by the troops occupying, and debouching from, that Farm. These were also to carry the Centre by assault, as soon as the Guard should reach the Height.
WELLINGTON, who seemed to have acquired a thorough insight into his opponent's designs, having satisfied himself that his position was destined shortly to be again assailed by a formidable force, became anxious for the arrival of the Prussian troops expected on his extreme Left. He desired his Aide de Camp, Lieutenant Colonel FREMANTLE, to proceed immediately in that direction, to hasten the advance of any Corps he might fall in with, and to represent to its Commander that if he would supply him with the means of strengthening those points along his Line which had been so seriously weakened by repeated attacks, he entertained no doubt of not only maintaining his ground, but of also gaining the victory.
Although the Duke was fully aware that BÜLOW's Corps was in active operation against the extreme Right of the French Army, the ground upon which that operation was mainly carried on was too remote from his own immediate sphere of action to admit of his calculating upon support from it, beyond that of a diversion of the Enemy's forces; and it was only from the high ground on which the extreme Left of the Anglo-Allied Line rested, that a general view could be obtained of the Prussian movements. As regards, however, the Village of Planchenoit itself, the spire of the church was all that could be seen even from the point alluded to; so that it was scarcely possible to distinguish which was the successful party in that quarter. NAPOLEON might (as he really did) present an efficient check to the Prussian attack, and at the same time retain sufficient force wherewith he might make another vigorous assault upon the Anglo-Allied Army.
When, therefore, the Duke beheld his Line so fearfully reduced in numbers, which he had no means of replacing, and which the indomitable courage of his British and German troops alone had hitherto been able to supply, it is not surprising that he should have manifested some little impatience for the arrival of that portion of the Prussian forces which was to co-operate more immediately with his own Army. The latter, with the exception of the Dutch-Belgian troops, which still continued in reserve, for it was useless to place them where they would be exposed to the brunt of the battle shock, presented but a mere wreck of that proud array which it had displayed in the morning. But, if the vain confidence of strength had departed, the more noble pride of unflinching bravery still remained unshaken. Exposed, however, as they had been for so many hours to a tremendous cannonade, which only ceased at times but to give place to attacks of Cavalry and musketry; their exemplary passive forbearance seemed, in some instances, to be approaching its utmost limits. Frequent messages reached the Duke from Commanding Officers, soliciting reinforcements and support since their Corps were reduced to skeletons; but the only reply they received was, that no reinforcements could be granted, and that they must hold their ground to the last man. Occasionally too, as he rode along the Line, a murmur would reach his ear, indicative of impatience to be led against the Enemy. This would draw from him some encouraging appeal, such as "Wait a little longer, my lads; and your wishes shall be gratified."
In all three Arms of the Service the losses had been awfully severe. Battalions, dwindled to mere handfuls of men, were commanded by either Captains or Subalterns. A vast number of guns along the whole extent of the Line had been disabled. The British and German Cavalry Brigades, with the exception of VIVIAN's and VANDELEUR's on the Left, were reduced to less than the ordinary strength of Regiments--SOMERSET's and PONSONBY's Brigades united did not comprise two Squadrons. Many, it is true, had quitted the ranks to assist the wounded, and to convey prisoners to the rear; but if amongst these were to be found the weak and faint hearted, the brave spirits that remained nobly represented the valour and devotion which, under the guidance of a master hand, were destined to be crowned with lasting triumph. Familiarised as the men had become with scenes, in rapid succession, of violent death under almost every variety of aspect, from the sudden gush of life to the slow and lingering anguish--from the calm and tranquil sleep "that knows no waking," to the ghastly writhings of convulsive death throes--the short and frequent command of "Close up!" as their comrades fell around them, was as mechanically obeyed as would have been any common parade order in a Barrack Square.
Such was the situation of the troops against which NAPOLEON was meditating an assault with all the force he could collect, in the hope--his last and only hope--of seeing his Eagles soaring in triumph over those Heights upon which the British Standard continued to wave in proud defiance.
* * * * *
The Battalions of the Imperial Guard which had been collected in front of La Belle Alliance, and which were to constitute the leading feature in the general attack upon the Anglo-Allied Line, consisted of nine Battalions, exclusive of the two Battalions of the 1st Regiment of Grenadiers, destined, as previously observed, to remain as a Reserve. These nine Battalions were formed into Two Columns of Attack. The First comprised four Battalions of the Middle Guard, namely, the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 3rd Regiment of Grenadiers, and the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 3rd Regiment of Chasseurs. It was formed in mass of Battalions, and destined to advance against the Centre of the Right Wing of the Anglo-Allied Army.
The Second Column of Attack consisted of the three remaining Battalions of the Middle Guard--namely, the 1st Battalion of the 4th Regiment of Grenadiers, and the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 4th Regiment of Chasseurs--and of two Battalions of the Old Guard, namely, the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 1st Regiment of Chasseurs. These five Battalions were moved down into the hollow adjoining the south-eastern angle of the inclosures of Hougomont, and there formed into a Column in mass, which was to support the First Column, and to direct its advance somewhat more to the left.
In rear, and on the right and left, of these Columns, stood the remains of that splendid Cavalry, with which WELLINGTON's Line had been so furiously and so perseveringly assailed, occupying the interval that had been continually augmenting between D'ERLON's and REILLE's Corps. They formed the last and only Cavalry Reserve remaining at NAPOLEON's disposal, for following up the attack by the Guard, should the latter prove successful; or for covering its retreat, in the event of failure.
* * * * *
It was shortly before the Columns of Attack were put in motion that VIVIAN, whose Hussar Brigade it will be recollected, was posted upon the extreme Left of the Anglo-Allied Line, was informed by Patrols which he had detached to look out to his left for the expected arrival of the Prussians, that the latter were advancing in force along the road from Ohain. Having satisfied himself as to the fact, and perceiving their Advanced Cavalry coming on, VIVIAN felt that there could be no longer any apprehension of the Left of the Army being turned: and having previously understood from Sir WILLIAM DELANCEY and other Staff Officers, that fresh Cavalry was much wanted in the Centre; he proposed to VANDELEUR, who was on his right, and who was his senior Officer, that the two Brigades should move towards the Centre, where they might be of service. VANDELEUR declined to act without Orders: whereupon VIVIAN put his own Brigade in motion, passing along the rear of VANDELEUR's, and soon after having commenced his march he met Lord UXBRIDGE; who was much pleased to find that the Duke's wishes had thus been anticipated, and sent Orders to VANDELEUR to follow, accompanying the former Brigade himself towards the Centre, passing along the foot of the slope in rear of the position of the Left Wing of the Anglo-Allied Line.
The Prussian troops, whose advance had thus induced VIVIAN to quit the extreme Left, were the Advanced Guard of ZIETEN's Corps: and consisted of a part of the First Infantry Brigade, namely, the 3rd Battalion 12th Regiment, the 1st and 2nd Battalions 24th Regiment, the 3rd Battalion 1st Westphalian Landwehr, and the 1st and 3rd Silesian Rifle Companies; as also of a part of the Reserve Cavalry, namely, the 1st Silesian Hussars, the Brandenburg Uhlans, the Brandenburg Dragoons, and the 2nd Kurmark Landwehr Cavalry.
They had already been joined by Lieutenant Colonel FREMANTLE, who delivered to ZIETEN the Duke's message: in reply to which that General remarked that he did not feel himself authorised to detach his Corps in the manner proposed; adding, however, that the great mass of the Prussian Army was arriving upon the Field.
The remainder of the Reserve Cavalry which was commanded by Lieutenant General RÖDER, together with the main body of the Corps, were still considerably in the rear. They were met by Captain JACKSON of the British Staff Corps, who had been sent to look for them. These troops did not reach the Field of Battle until after the victory had been decided.
WELLINGTON, finding that there was no chance of his shattered Line being strengthened by the arrival, in sufficient time, of a Prussian force from his left, to support his weak points of defence; and that he must therefore depend solely on his own resources for the means of warding off the desperate blow which NAPOLEON was about to strike, immediately made such dispositions as the circumstances of the moment appeared to him to demand. The incessant attacks made by the French Light Troops debouching from La Haye Sainte, from the moment that Farm fell into their possession, had caused great havoc in the Centre of his Line, where the want of reinforcement became most apparent. To meet this deficiency, he ordered the Brunswick Battalions, which stood at this time in rear of MAITLAND's and ADAM's Brigades--namely, the 2nd and 3rd Light, and the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Line, Battalions, to move by their left into the interval between HALKETT's British, and KRUSE's Nassau, Brigade.
To occupy the ground thus vacated by the Brunswickers, he put in motion D'AUBREMÉ's Dutch-Belgian Infantry Brigade from its recently assumed position in rear of the Nivelles road; whence the other Brigade of CHASSÉ's Dutch-Belgian Division, under Major General DITMER, was shortly afterwards ordered to move in the direction of the left of MAITLAND's British Brigade.
The remains of his Cavalry stood in rear of the Centre; towards which VIVIAN's and VANDELEUR's Brigades were now moving from the Left, as previously explained.
Whilst the Imperial Guard was forming for attack, the French troops in possession of La Haye Sainte and its inclosures, now consisting of the entire of DONZELOT's Division, from the Left of D'ERLON's Corps, renewed, with redoubled vigour, their assault upon the Centre of the Allied Line: the object being evidently either to force that point previously to the arrival of the Guard on its left, and thus facilitate the assault to be made by the latter; or to harass it in such a manner that, should the effort of the Guard prove successful, they would be enabled completely to overthrow the Allied Centre. The fire from the Skirmishers that had located themselves between the Farm and the position, and from those on the Knoll by the Sand Pit on the opposite side of the high road, had been incessant since the capture of that Post.
OMPTEDA's Brigade of the King's German Legion, which had hitherto occupied the hollow way that descends into the chaussée, was reduced to a mere handful of men: the two Squares in which KIELMANSEGGE's Hanoverian Brigade, the next on the (Allied) Right, had stood its ground so many hours, were fearfully diminished; KRUSE's Nassau Brigade, still further to the right, formed in three Contiguous Columns (two in front and one in rear), began to evince symptoms of hesitation; and the interval between this and HALKETT's British Brigade had become much greater than was consistent with the due security of this part of the Line. So weakened indeed was the latter at this period, that, to remedy the evil in some degree, it had been deemed advisable, with a view rather of giving it the appearance of greater strength than of affording any very active support, to draw close up in its rear, the skeleton remains of the Scots Greys and of the 3rd Hussars of the King's German Legion.
On the Allied left of the high road, an unremitting fire was maintained against their opponents by the 95th and 4th British Regiments in extended order along the front hedge of the Wavre road, commencing from the Charleroi chaussée, as also from the 40th, 79th, 1st, and 28th British Regiments, deployed behind the embanked hedge on the rear side of that road. The 27th British Regiment had been brought up by LAMBERT, and posted, in Square, in the angle formed by the junction of the above roads: having one face parallel with, and close to, the chaussée, for the purpose either of throwing a flank fire upon the French troops on the opposite side, should these succeed, as appeared very probable, in compelling OMPTEDA's and KIELMANSEGGE's Brigades to retire; or, of pouring a close, deadly volley upon any Column endeavouring to penetrate along the high road itself. The Artillery on the Allied right of the high road, in front of these Brigades, was at this moment completely disabled. Two British Artillerymen were observed vainly endeavouring to serve a couple of guns, but were compelled to desist from the want of all material for loading.
Such was the state of things in the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Army, when the continued popping fire from the French Skirmishers suddenly quickened into a fierce tiraillade which threatened to bear down every thing opposed to it. The bank along the high road, beyond the Garden of La Haye Sainte, and the mound adjoining it, which latter was quite close to the Allied position, became all at once thickly crowded with Skirmishers. Those that lined the banks seemed intent upon keeping down the fire from the British Regiments of KEMPT's and LAMBERT's Brigades, along the Wavre road; while those under cover of the little mound in advance, as if aware of the object of the formation of the 27th British Regiment, and sensible of the necessity of securing their Right Flank in their meditated forcing of the position, opened such a close, sharp, fire upon that Regiment that, within the brief space of a few minutes, it lost more than half of its numbers.
At the same time, taking advantage of the crippled state of the Allied Artillery in this quarter, the French brought up two guns in advance of the north-western angle of the Garden of La Haye Sainte, in which position they were covered from any fire from the opposite side of the high road by the Skirmishers occupying the bank and the mound. From these guns a smart fire of grape was opened, and maintained without intermission, upon the Left Square of KIELMANSEGGE's Brigade (consisting of the Field Battalions Grubenhagen and York), at the short distance of one hundred and fifty, and afterwards of scarcely one hundred, paces. The Square manifested the most exemplary submission and forbearance, notwithstanding the ravages that continued to be made in its ranks; not venturing to reply to the fire, by the apprehension of Cavalry being under the brow of the position, prepared to take instant advantage of any favourable opportunity for a charge. The Right Square (consisting of the Field Battalions Bremen and Verden) also suffered most severely.
Some other guns, which had accompanied the Columns in rear of the French Skirmishers, were suddenly brought forward, and opened so destructive a discharge of grape upon this latter Square, that one of its sides was literally completely blown away; the remainder being left standing in the form of a triangle. The Commander, and many other Officers, were wounded. The ammunition was failing rapidly. The combined fire of grape and musketry continued to increase in violence; and the Square finally dwindled into a mere clump of men. The French Tirailleurs continued pressing forward in a very compact line, whilst the sound of drums beating the pas de charge announced the advance of the Columns immediately in their rear.
The Prince of ORANGE, perceiving the probability of the Centre of the Allied Line being forced, unless some great effort were made to check the Enemy's advance, ordered the 1st and 2nd Nassau Battalions of KRUSE's Brigade to charge, gallantly placing himself at their head. His Royal Highness was soon struck by a bullet in the left shoulder; the attack failed; and the Nassauers were falling back, when the reinforcement which WELLINGTON had provided for this part of the Line, consisting of five Battalions of Brunswick Infantry, moved rapidly into the interval between KRUSE's Nassau, and HALKETT's British, Brigades. But so unexpectedly did the Brunswickers find themselves placed under a most destructive fire, and so suddenly were the heads of their Columns assailed, that they were unable, in the midst of the thick smoke in which they became involved, to recover from the partial irregularities by which, under such circumstances, their advance was accompanied, and to form up in sufficient order, before they came in close contact with the Enemy: whose vigorous attack compelled them, as also KRUSE's, KIELMANSEGGE's, and OMPTEDA's Brigades, to fall back about a hundred paces.
At this critical moment, WELLINGTON hastened to the spot in person, to avert so alarming a catastrophe as that of having his Centre broken, at a time, too, when he was preparing to receive a formidable attack, directed against another point of his Line, situated at but a short distance on the right of that Centre. He addressed himself to the Brunswickers; and succeeded, by the electrifying influence of his voice, gesture, and presence, in rallying the discomfited Columns. The 3rd Line Battalion, under Major NORMANN, was the first to reform in good order: it then boldly stood its ground; and, when the Enemy's Infantry approached, received it with so destructive a fire as completely to check its further advance.
By dint of example and encouragement on the part of all the Commanding Officers, the Brigades on the left of the Brunswickers were also rallied and formed up: upon seeing which, the Duke galloped off to the right.
Just at this time, VIVIAN's Hussar Brigade drew up immediately in rear of these troops--relieving the exhausted remains of the Scots Greys and 3rd Hussars of the King's German Legion--the 10th and 18th British Hussars in Front, and the 1st Hussars of the King's German Legion in Second, Line. The presence and appearance of this fresh Cavalry tended very considerably to restore confidence to that part of the Line. The Brigade had previously, in consequence of a mistake in the transmission of Orders, been halted on the left of the high road about midway between the Front Line and the Farm of Mont St Jean; whence, however, it was speedily brought forward, and posted as above, by Lord UXBRIDGE.
The Prince of ORANGE, ALTEN, and almost all the superior Officers of the Third Division, had been wounded. But KIELMANSEGGE, who now commanded in this part of the Field, was fully alive to the critical circumstances under which the Third Division was placed; and exhibited great ability, coolness, and determination, by the manner in which he succeeded in restoring it to order. Still, the persevering and incessant tiraillade kept up against these troops by the French was such that the fire thrown out from their shattered and enfeebled ranks was quite inadequate to repress it. The French Skirmishers again crowded close up to the Line; maintaining a most rapid and destructive fire.
The Allied Infantry was once more on the point of giving way. One Battalion of the Brunswickers was retiring in Close Column, but in good order; having totally exhausted its ammunition. The Nassauers were falling back en masse against the horses' heads of the 10th Hussars; who, keeping their Files closed, prevented further retreat. VIVIAN and Captain SHAKESPEARE of the 10th (acting as his extra Aide de Camp), rendered themselves conspicuous at this moment by their endeavours to halt and encourage the Nassauers. The Hanoverians and the German Legion on the left, led by KIELMANSEGGE, now resolutely dashed forward, at the double quick--their drums rolling. The Enemy fell back. The Brunswickers took up the movement, as then did also the Nassauers--VIVIAN and his Aide de Camp cheering them on; whilst the Hussars followed in close support. In this manner, KIELMANSEGGE succeeded in leading back the shattered remnants of the Division to the place they had so long and so honourably occupied on the ridge.
VIVIAN's Brigade, by its proximity to these troops, against which so close and unremitting a fire of musketry was maintained, was placed in a very trying situation for Cavalry, and suffered much in consequence. As soon, however, as the Infantry had rallied and resumed their former position in the Line, VIVIAN withdrew his Brigade under the crest of the ridge, a distance of not more than thirty yards, to place his men a little out of fire; and when thus posted, he was better prepared to make an attack if required.
The fire from the Enemy's Infantry in front of this part of the Line suddenly slackened; and it was soon manifest that they were falling back: the change arose out of occurrences on their left, which will be explained in the next Chapter.