Then it was that the British commander on the spot asked Colonel Park whether, with the three companies of the Devonshire Regiment in reserve, he could clear the hill.

"We will try," was the reply.

The companies deployed in three lines, in extended order--six to eight paces between the men--and fixed bayonets.

The enemy knew not what was coming, but their watch was untiring.

When ready, "The Colonel rose to his feet, and the three companies rose with him as one man.