The men were to fire quickly, and stand their ground as long as possible, if necessary sheltering themselves behind trees.

If they could do no better they were to retreat, but not to run quite off; but to return and renew the struggle, for they might have better luck at the next attempt.

[Footnote: Ramsay ("Revolution in South Carolina"), writing in 1785, gives the speech verbatim, apparently from Cleavland himself.

It is very improbable that it is verbally correct, but doubtless it represents the spirit of his remarks.] So rapid were the movements of the Americans, and so unexpected the attack, that a loyalist officer, who had been out reconnoitring, had just brought word to the British commander that there was no sign of danger, when the first shots were heard; and by the time the officer had paraded and posted his men, the assault had begun, his horse had been killed, and he himself wounded.

[Footnote: "Essays in Military Biography," Col.