Each scaler was provided with only two rounds of ammunition, which were not to be used until he had mounted the breastwork and could deliver his shots on our heads.
The drawing below represents the interior of the fort just previous to the assault.

Nothing on earth could represent the state of things after the first volley.
(Fort Slatter detail graphic) The thrilling moment had now arrived.

If I had been going into a real engagement I could not have been more deeply impressed by the importance of the occasion.
The fort opened fire first--a single ball from the dexterous band of General Harris taking General Ames in the very pit of his stomach.

A cheer went up from Fort Slatter.

In an instant the air was thick with flying missiles, in the midst of which we dimly descried the storming parties sweeping up the hill, shoulder to shoulder.