It was allowed to pass nearly through the wood, when a heavy fire was opened upon it on both flanks.
The regiment of gendarmes which led the column showed great coolness and, animated by their example, the whole force remained steady.

Darkness came on, but it was not until eleven o'clock that there was any change in the situation.

Owing to the darkness in the forest, neither side was able to distinguish its foes.

The men fired only at the flashes of the muskets.
Lescure then sent round four or five hundred men, who suddenly fell upon the baggage train of the enemy.

The guard were completely taken by surprise.