Being now encouraged by this increase of force, they resolved to fall on Tadcaster. My father drew all his men thither. But by a Council of War the town was judged untenable; and that we should draw out to an advantageous piece of ground by the town. But before we could all march out; the Enemy advanced [on 7th December 1642] so fast that we were necessitated to leave some Foot in a slight Work above the bridge to secure our retreat.
But the Enemy pressing still on us, forced us to draw back [return back], and maintain that ground.
We had about 900 men. The Enemy above 4,000: who, in Brigades, drew up close to the Works, and stormed us. Our men reserved their shot till they were very near; which then they disposed to so good purpose as forced them to retire, and shelter themselves behind the hedges that were hard by.
And here did the fight continue from 11 a clock at noon till 5 at night, with cannon and musket, without intermission.
They had, once, possessed a house by the bridge; which would have cut us [off] from our reserves that were in the town: but Major General Gifford, with a commanded party, beat them out again; where many of the enemies were slain and taken prisoners.
They attempted at another place; but were also repulsed by Captain Lister, who was there slain: which was a great loss, [he] being a discreet Gentleman.
And now, it growing dark, the Enemy drew off into the fields hard by; with intention to assault us again the next day. They left that night about 200 dead and wounded upon the place.
But our ammunition being all spent in this day's fight; we drew off that night, and marched to Selby: and the Enemy entered, the next day [8th December 1642], into the town [of Tadcaster]. And thus, by the mercy of GOD, were a few delivered from an Army who, in their thoughts, had swallowed us up.