The French horse, 10,000 strong, stood their ground at first firmly.

The choicest and bravest of their chivalry were there; the banderolls of almost all the nobles of France floated over the squadrons.
"So hot was the fire of musketry and cannon when the assailants drew near, that their advance was checked.

They retired sixty paces, and the battle was kept up for a few minutes only by a fire of artillery.

Gradually, however, the fire of the artillery slackened; and Marlborough, taking advantage of the pause, led his cavalry again to the charge.

With irresistible vehemence the line dashed forward at full speed, and soon the crest of the ridge was passed.