How the regiment, lying helpless under this fire, escaped destruction is extraordinary.

To rush the trench in the face of such a continuous blast of lead seemed impossible, and it was equally impossible to remain where they were.

In a short time the moon would be up, and they would be picked off to a man.

The outer companies upon the plain were ordered to retire.

Breaking up into loose order, they made their way back with surprisingly little loss; but a strange contretemps occurred, for, leaping suddenly into a trench held by the Gordons, they transfixed themselves upon the bayonets of the men.