The length of the column was about six miles.
"Its head had marched about seven miles, when the cavalry in advance caught sight of the enemy, in position, three miles ahead.
Preparations were made for receiving an attack and, at eight o'clock, the march was resumed.

Half a squadron of Bengal Lancers were sent to cover the left front of the infantry brigade, which was now close to a range of low hills that ran parallel to the line of march for some distance, then made a bend to the east.

The enemy were seen in position, covering the point of passage through the hills, and also upon the hills flanking the road by which the division would advance.
"When within a mile and a half of the enemy, two batteries moved out and took up positions to shell them in front; while the infantry deployed, the line on the left facing the enemy on the hills.

The 2nd Punjab Cavalry were on the right of the guns, whose escort consisted of a squadron of 19th Bengal Lancers, and a company of Punjab Infantry.
"It was the general's intention to advance to the attack but, at nine o'clock, before his dispositions were completed, the whole crest of the hills held by the enemy seemed to be swarming with men.

Scarcely had the guns opened fire, when the enemy swept down from the hills, in successive lines of swordsmen, stretching out far beyond either flank of our force.