The fighting had lasted an hour; all hope was gone; and De Peyster hoisted a white flag.
In the confusion the firing continued in parts of the lines on both sides.

Some of the backwoodsmen did not know what a white flag meant; others disregarded it, savagely calling out, "Give them Buford's play," in allusion to Tarleton's having refused quarter to Buford's troops.
[Footnote: Deposition of John Long, in _Enquirer_, as quoted.] Others of the men as they came up began shooting before they learned what had happened; and some tories who had been out foraging returned at this moment, and also opened fire.

A number of the loyalists escaped in turmoil, putting badges in their hats like those worn by certain of the American militia, and thus passing in safety through the whig lines.
[Footnote: Chesney, p.

333.] It was at this time, after the white flag had been displayed, that Col.

Williams was shot, as he charged a few of the tories who were still firing.