He himself with the remainder would defend the bridge till they were fairly across, and would then rush over and join them as he might.
With a heavy heart Jacob was preparing to obey this order, when he heard a loud cheer, and saw Prince Rupert, heading a large body of horse, dash into the river on the other side.

The enemy saw him too.

There was an instant cessation of their fire, and before Prince Rupert had gained the bank the Roundheads were already in full retreat for Reading.

The bridge was hastily repaired, and the prince pursued for some distance, chasing their cavalry well-nigh into Reading.

Their infantry, however, held together, and regained that town in safety.
Upon his return Prince Rupert expressed his warm admiration at the prolonged and gallant defense which Harry had made, and said that the oldest soldier in the army could not have done better.