The Russian squadrons came along with a deep roll like that of thunder.
They were but thirty yards away when they perceived the little cluster of men with levelled lances.

A few, unable to check their horses, rushed upon the points, but most of them reined in their little steeds in time.

In a moment, the Swedes were surrounded by a wall of yelling horsemen, some of whom tried to break through the hedge of spears, while others discharged their pistols.
Charlie listened anxiously for the roll of a volley of musketry, but no sound came, and he felt sure that the whole body of cavalry had halted round him, and that his movement had saved the rest, who would now, if fortunate, be able to make their way off in the darkness.

But the men were falling now from the pistol fire of the Cossacks, and, feeling that the work had been done, he determined to make one effort to save the men with him.
"Level your spears, and charge through them shoulder to shoulder," he said.

"It is your only chance.