The Highlanders did not remain long undisturbed in the defensive
position they had adopted. Favoured by the night, one large body of
dismounted dragoons attempted to force the enclosures, while another,
equally strong, strove to penetrate by the high road. Both were received
by such a heavy fire as disconcerted their ranks, and effectually
checked their progress. Unsatisfied with the advantage thus gained,
Fergus, to whose ardent spirit the approach of danger seemed to restore
all ifs elasticity, drawing his sword, and calling out 'Claymore!'
encouraged his men, by voice and example, to break through the hedge
which divided them, and rush down upon the enemy. Mingling with the
dismounted dragoons, they forced them, at the sword-point, to fly to the
open moor, where a considerable number were cut to pieces. But the moon,
which suddenly shone out, showed to the English the small number of
assailants, disordered by their own success. Two squadrons of horse
moving to the support of their companions, the Highlanders endeavoured
to recover the enclosures. But several of them, amongst others their
brave Chieftain, were cut off and surrounded before they could effect
their purpose.
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