The night in camp was a terrible experience.

The troops had been fighting since early morning, the frost was bitter, and they had neither water, food, nor blankets.

General Westmacott passed the night with the sentry line.
Early in the morning the action recommenced and, stubbornly contesting each foot, at times almost in hand-to-hand conflict with tribesmen in the bushes, the rear guard fell back.

The summit of the Kotal was passed; but the enemy continued to harass their retirement down to the river, where the picket post of the 9th Ghoorkhas was reached.

The retirement from the Tirah had cost a hundred and sixty-four killed and wounded.