The remainder of the little force, under a Dutch colonel, were to be held in reserve, and to assist wherever they might be most useful.

They occupied a position somewhat in rear of and halfway between the two parties who were to make the assault.
Soon after daylight Peterborough gave the order to advance, and in the highest spirits, and in excellent order, the soldiers pushed up the hill toward the fort.

Some irregular Spanish troops were the first to perceive them.

These fired a hasty volley at the British troops as they ascended the crest and then retreated into the fort.

Seizing their arms the garrison rushed to the ramparts and manned them in time to receive the assailants with a sharp fire.