He also recognized the fact that the Winchester regiment had before it the most desperate work any men could do, if it beat off Forrest when he came in his own country with superior numbers.
Neither side had artillery, not even the light guns that could be carried horse- or muleback.

It must be left to carbine and saber.
Colonel Winchester carefully watched his formidable foe, trying to divine every trick and expedient that he might use.

He had a memory to avenge.

He had news to carry to Grant, and Forrest must not keep him from carrying it.

Moreover, his regiment and he would gain great prestige if they could beat off Forrest.