Still, it is as well not to push your horse too hard on your way out, for you may possibly need all his strength." A minute later, Desmond was cantering his horse down the declivity to the Norken.

Crossing by the bridge near Mullen, he turned to the right and rode up the hill of Royegham.

Here a strong brigade, composed of cavalry and infantry, under General Grimaldi, was stationed.

Desmond rode up to him.
"The Duke of Berwick has sent me to ascertain, sir, the position of a strong body of the enemy's troops, whom he observed marching from the river towards our right.

May I ask if you have noticed them ?" "We saw them move away, after crossing the river, but have not seen them since.