As the German infantry advanced in the wake of their cavalry, the British came to sudden life. Flame burst out from all along the center and the Germans recoiled. Volley after volley was poured into the wavering ranks of the enemy, and they turned to flee.
A supporting column was rushed hurriedly to their assistance, and as they advanced the British artillery opened fire. Great holes were cut in the advancing German line, but their advance was unchecked. From their rear reinforcements were coming continually.
The fire of the British artillery and infantry was deadly. Men fell by the hundreds, were mowed down like chaff before the wind by the accuracy of the British fire. In the English ranks men also were dropping on all sides, but the gaps were filled up immediately and the British, singing and cheering, continued their advance.
The roar of battle could be heard for miles around, but the men engaged in the conflict were unconscious of it. They had but one sense left—that of sight—and their rifles continued to deal out death.
At length the German advance was checked, and then they began to fall back.
There was a rousing cheer from the English, and the advance was more rapid than before. The retreating Germans halted, turned to face the English, made a last desperate stand, then fled in disorder.
But as the English broke into a run to pursue their advantage still closer, they were met with a hail of bullets from a large force of the enemy’s infantry which at that moment advanced, in support of their comrades, close enough to come into action.
The English reeled for a moment under this terrible fire, but they did not waver. Support was hurried to them. It was time for prompt action.
General French took in the situation at a glance and gave a quick command. A moment later the voices of the different officers rang out along the British line: