As soon as it was discovered that the alarm was a false one, the order was given to "Reform Column," and for the two leading companies (Nos.

1 and 2) to "extend." On reforming, the reserve, being too close to the skirmish line, was ordered to retire.

The left wing of the Thirteenth, who were in rear, seeing the four companies of the Queen's Own reserve retiring, and thinking a general retreat had been ordered, broke and retired in a panic, on seeing which the Queen's Own reserve also hurriedly retired.

The bugles now having sounded the "Retire." Nos.

1 and 2 Companies of the Queen's Own fell back and seeing their comrades in disorder they too became demoralized.