A quarter of a mile behind them, on the high ground close to the convent, was a regiment of German infantry.

These were in full sight of the enemy.

The other regiment of the light division was placed lower down the hill, and supported by the guns of a battery.
Two of Ney's columns advanced up the hill with great speed and gallantry; never pausing for a moment, although their ranks were swept by grape from the artillery, and a heavy musketry fire by the light troops.

The latter were forced to fall back before the advance.

The guns were withdrawn, and the French were within a few yards of the edge of the plateau, when Crawford launched the 43rd and 52nd Regiments against them.
Wholly unprepared for such an attack, the French were hurled down the hill.