This force, when the troops returned, diverged somewhat from the line of march which the main body were following.

It was hard pressed by the tribesmen, hampered by the wounded, and was running short of ammunition; and was obliged to send for help.

The general ordered the Guides to go to their assistance but, fortunately, a half company of that regiment with some ammunition had already reached them, and the party could be seen fighting their way up a steep rocky spur.
The tribesmen, confident that they could cut off the small band from the main force, rushed at them with their swords.

Both the officers were severely wounded.

When, however, the rest of the Guides arrived on the hill, they poured several volleys into the enemy, and so checked their advance.