The fugitives were pursued up to the American works; and such is represented to have been the ardour of the British soldiers, that it required the authority of their cautious commander to prevent an immediate assault.
[Footnote 42: General Howe's letter.] The fire towards Brooklyn gave the first intimation to the American right, that the enemy had gained their rear.

Lord Stirling perceived the danger, and that he could only escape it by retreating instantly across the creek.

This movement was immediately directed; and, to secure it, his lordship determined to attack, in person, a British corps under Lord Cornwallis, stationed at a house rather above the place at which he intended to cross the creek.

About four hundred men of Smallwood's regiment were drawn out for this purpose, and the attack was made with great spirit.

This small corps was brought up several times to the charge; and Lord Stirling stated that he was on the point of dislodging Lord Cornwallis from his post; but the force in his front increasing, and General Grant also advancing on his rear, the brave men he commanded were no longer able to oppose the superior numbers which assailed them on every quarter; and those who survived were, with their General, made prisoners of war.