Unfortunately, Sullivan's division, in taking its ground, made too large a circuit, and was scarcely formed when the attack commenced.
[Sidenote: The American army defeated at Brandywine, and retreat to Chester.] On perceiving the Americans, the British army was formed in order of battle; and, about half past four, the action began.

It was kept up warmly for some time.

The American right first gave way, and by its flight exposed the flank of the remaining divisions to a galling fire.
The line continued to break from the right, and, in a short time, was completely routed.

The right wing made some attempts to rally, but, being briskly charged, again broke, and the flight became general.
On the commencement of the action on the right, General Washington pressed forward with Greene, to the support of that wing; but, before his arrival, its rout was complete, and he could only check the pursuit.

For this purpose, the 10th Virginia regiment commanded by Colonel Stevens, and a regiment of Pennsylvania commanded by Colonel Stewart, neither of which had been in action, were posted advantageously on the road taken by the defeated army.