No support was possible, for the heavy cavalry were at this time far away, executing a movement which had been ordered.

Lastly, even if successful, the charge could be attended with no great results, as it would be impossible either to hold or carry away the guns.
The enterprise was indeed a desperate one.

Lord Cardigan gave the order, and the Light Brigade, numbering in all but the strength of a single regiment, set out at a trot towards the distant Russians.

As they approached they quickened their speed, and the spectators saw with feelings of mixed horror and admiration, the enterprise on which they had embarked.

When at the distance of 1200 yards from the Russians, thirty pieces of artillery opened fire upon them.