That distant firing had ceased, and all need for further advance had ended.

Already vast forces of Indians, flushed with victory and waving bloody scalps, were sweeping back across the ridges to attack in force.

Scarcely had reinforcements attained the summit before the torrent of savagery burst screeching on their front.
From point to point the grim struggle raged, till nightfall wrought partial cessation.

The wearied troopers stretched out their lines so as to protect the packs and the field hospital, threw themselves on the ground, digging rifle-pits with knives and tin pans.

Not until nine o'clock did the Indian fire slacken, and then the village became a scene of savage revel, the wild yelling plainly audible to the soldiers above.