But he became conscious that the Southern horsemen, after the long and desperate struggle, were driving back those of the North.

They had superior numbers.

One of the Northern divisions, after having been engaged with infantry elsewhere, failed to come up.
Pleasanton, after daring and skill that deserved greater success, was forced slowly to withdraw.

Roused by the roar of the firing, heavy masses of Ewell's infantry were now appearing on the horizon, sent by Lee, with orders to hurry to the utmost.

Pleasanton, maintaining all his skill and coolness, dexterously withdrew his men across the river, and Stuart did not consider it wise to follow.
Each side had lost heavily.