They occupied the whole of the crest of the western hill, having constructed numerous sangars down its side, each commanding the one below it.

The greater part of their force was more than halfway down the hill, at the point where it descended precipitously into the valley.

It was only at this point that the western side of the pass was held.
"Three batteries were sent up on this side.

These attacked position after position on the eastern slope, and their fire was so accurate that it effectually prevented the enemy on the eastern side from concentrating.
"When the advance began, it was evident that little could be done until the Guides had secured the position they had been ordered to take.

It was soon seen that they were very seriously outnumbered.
The Gordon Highlanders had moved up the crest of the western hill, at the point where it touched the valley.