But D'Estaing declared that he could devote no more time to this object; and it only remained to raise the siege, or to attempt the works by storm.

The latter part of the alternative was adopted.
On the left of the allied army, was a swampy hollow way which afforded a cover for troops advancing on the right flank of the besieged, to a point within fifty yards of their principal work.

It was determined to march to the main attack along this hollow; and, at the same time, to direct feints against other parts of the lines.
[Sidenote: Unsuccessful attempt to storm it.] On the morning of the 9th of October, before day, a heavy cannonade and bombardment were commenced from all the batteries, as preliminary to the assault.

About three thousand five hundred French, and one thousand Americans, of whom between six and seven hundred were regulars, and the residue militia of Charleston, advanced in three columns, led by D'Estaing and Lincoln, aided by the principal officers of both nations, and made a furious assault on the British lines.
Their reception was warmer than had been expected.

The fire from the batteries of the besieged reached every part of the columns of the assailants which had emerged from the swamp, and did great execution.
Yet the allied troops advanced with unabated ardour, passed through the abattis, crossed the ditch, and mounted the parapet.