Here we left our impedimenta, and proceeded by a cross-country road.

Presently a couple of mounted men belonging to the enemy, not perceiving who we were, galloped straight into the escort.

On discovering their mistake, they turned and tried to escape, but in vain; one was killed, the other captured, and from him we learnt that the rebels were only a short distance ahead.

We pushed on, and soon came in sight of them and of the river; crowds were collected on the banks, and boats were being hurriedly laden, some of the guns having already been placed on board.
Our troops were ordered to advance, but the ground along the river bank was treacherous and very heavy.

Notwithstanding, the Artillery managed to struggle through, and when the batteries had got to within 1,000 yards of the ferry, the enemy appeared suddenly to discover our presence, and opened upon us with their Artillery.