But over such ground order was impossible.

They had to clamber, to scramble, to cut their way as best they could.

The twigs and branches blinded them; they fell over the knotted roots; they became disordered and scattered, though their confidence remained unshaken.
Then suddenly, when they were half across the open space, came the long crack and blaze from end to end of the rampart; smoke seemed to gush and flash out from one extremity to the other.

Sharp cries of agony and dismay, shouts and curses, filled the air.

The English fell in dozens amid the fallen trees, and those behind rushed forward over the bodies of their doomed companions.
It was in vain to try to carry the rampart by the bayonet.