For hours they held them with an inferior force, and finally, when the numbers became equal, were able to drive them off and capture their guns.

The credit is largely due to Major Lean for his prompt initiative on discovering their laager, and to Major Taylor for his handling of the force during a very critical time.

Above all, it was due to the dead leader, Le Gallais, who had infected every man under him with his own spirit of reckless daring.

'If I die, tell my mother that I die happy, as we got the guns,' said he, with his failing breath.

The British total losses were twelve killed (four officers) and thirty-three wounded (seven officers).