CHAPTER IX.
THE BATTLE.
Of the battle, short, sharp and bloody, which followed after we had given the alarm by riding across the plank causeway into Black Mingo Swamp, I can set down but little of my own knowledge, because Gavin Witherspoon, Percy and myself were with what was called, for the time being, the "cavalry," and we saw only that portion of the engagement which fell to our share.
However, I have heard my uncle tell the story again and again in these words, and there can be no doubt as to its correctness, however the historian of the future may write concerning the action:
"After the alarm gun sounded, promptness and swift riding became as necessary as had caution, and the general ordered his men to follow him at a gallop until the force reached the main road, about three hundred yards from where it was known the enemy lay.
"Here, with the exception of a small number who were to act as cavalry, the entire command dismounted. A body of picked men under Captain Waties was ordered down the road to attack Dollard's house where the Tories had been posted. Two companies under Hugh Horry were sent to the right, and the cavalry to the left, to support the attack, Marion himself bringing up the rear.
"It so happened, however, that the Tories had left the house immediately after being alarmed, and were strongly drawn up in a field near at hand.
"Here it was they encountered Horry's command on the advance, with a fire equally severe and unexpected. The effect was that of a surprise upon the colonists. Horry's troops fell back in confusion, but were promptly rallied and brought on the charge.
"Immediately the battle became obstinate and bloody; but the appearance of the men under Waties, who came up suddenly in the rear of the Tories, soon brought it to a close. Finding themselves between two fires, the enemy gave way in all directions to flee for refuge to the neighboring swamp of Black Mingo."
This is the story of the battle as I have heard my uncle tell it many times.
As for the part which we three comrades played, I can say but little in detail.