Cries of dismay and pain rang through the forest.

They broke cover and ran back towards the main body, followed by another well-directed volley from the brave Stark and his men.
Round the spot where Rogers and the main body of the Rangers stood the fight waxed fierce and hot.

But Stark held to his post on the spur of the hill, where he saw how the foe was trying to get round to their rear; and again and again his well-aimed volleys sent them flying back decimated to their companions.
But how was it going with the others?
The firing was incessant, and shouts and cries told of death and disaster on both sides.

Stark bid Fritz make a dash for the main body and bring back word.

The brief winter's day was beginning to draw to a close.