The projecting angle was, however, of course the point nearest to the English lines, and, exposed as they were to the sweeping fire of the enemy while crossing the open, both columns of assault naturally made for this point.
The Russian resistance was slight, and the stormers burst into the work.

The abattis had been torn to pieces by the cannonade, and the men did not wait for the ladders, but leapt into the ditch and scrambled up on the other side.
The Russians within ran back, and opened a fire from their traverses and works in the rear.

As the English troops entered, they halted to fire upon the enemy, instead of advancing upon them.

The consequence was that the Russians, who were rapidly reinforced, were soon able to open a tremendous concentrated fire upon the mass of men in the angle, and these, pressed upon by their comrades who flocked in behind them, impeded by the numerous internal works, mixed up in confusion, all regimental order being lost, were unable either to advance or to use their arms with effect.

In vain the officers strove by example and shouts to induce them to advance.