The remainder of the column pushed on.
Two companies of the 35th Sikhs, who were in advance, went too far; and were suddenly attacked by a great number of the enemy.

Fighting sturdily they fell back but, being hampered by their wounded, many of the men were unable to return the fire of the tribesmen; who formed round them, keeping up a heavy fire at close quarters.

The Ghazis, seeing their opportunity, came closer and closer; their swordsmen charging in and cutting down the Sikhs in the ranks.
Seventeen were thus killed or wounded.

Presently, however, the Buffs arrived in support, and a squadron of the 11th Bengal Lancers charged the Ghazis, and speared many of them before they could reach the shelter of the hills; and the Buffs soon drove them away, with heavy loss.
While this was going on the third detachment, which had destroyed many of the numerous villages, was called in to join the main body.
The guns had been doing good work among the flying tribesmen.

A company and a half of the 35th Sikhs were told to take post, on a high hill, to cover the guns.