The effect was that of a surprise upon the assailants.
Horry's troops fell back in confusion, but were promptly rallied and brought to the charge.

The battle was obstinate and bloody, but the appearance of the corps under Waties, suddenly, in the rear of the Tories, soon brought it to a close.

Finding themselves between two fires, the enemy gave way in all directions, and fled for refuge to the neighboring swamp of Black Mingo.

So warmly contested was this affair, that, though soon over, fully one third of the men brought into the field were put 'hors de combat'.

The loss of Marion was proportionably very considerable.