CHAPTER XIV.

It was during the fierce and desperate conflict just described as having taken place in the Centre of the Anglo-Allied Line, that the French Imperial Guard moved forward to the attack; and this was the signal for the simultaneous advance of all the disposable Battalions of D'ERLON's and REILLE's Corps.

In the preliminary pause which occurred in the fire from the French Batteries, from the first moment of the advance until the Columns had sufficiently descended from the Heights to be below the range of their guns, the thunder of BÜLOW's Artillery upon the French extreme Right, and of the guns brought to bear against it, was so distinctly audible that NAPOLEON, apprehending its evil effects upon the troops on whose bravery, discipline, and devotion, his fate now hung, despatched Aides de Camp along the Line to spread the false intelligence of the arrival of GROUCHY; and to declare that it now required but a little firmness to secure the victory to which they were advancing. The loud shouts with which this announcement was received by the troops, who had then descended below the range of the guns, were speedily drowned in the roar that burst forth from the entire Line of the French Batteries.

The effects of this terrific cannonade upon the skeleton ranks of the Allied Front Line, combined with the aspect of the advancing hosts, tended not in the slightest degree to shake that noble and unequalled courage with which the British and German troops had hitherto sustained every assault. The scene of havoc and devastation which met their view as they looked around them, the constant ravages which they had been destined passively to endure for so many hours, their ranks repeatedly torn open and their Files scattered asunder, as shot and shell plunged in amongst them,--all conduced to excite in the breasts of men of such impenetrable mould a feeling of exultation and relief, as they observed the approach of the Enemy's Infantry, and panted for the long wished for moment when they might grapple with their deadly foe at close quarters, in a hand to hand encounter. Most fully did they realise the expectations entertained of them by their Enemy, but admirer, the brave General FOY; who had felt it his duty, prior to the commencement of the Battle, to declare to the Emperor, that His Majesty had an Infantry opposed to him which he had never known to yield.

The French troops, perceiving their whole Front Line in motion, felt conscious that the final struggle was at hand, and assured that the varied fortunes of the day were to be wound up by some splendid triumph. The Guard proudly took the lead in this grand attack--that sacred cohort, whose glory had ever shone conspicuously when a great crisis summoned forth those energies by which its valour and its prowess had acquired for it imperishable renown. The greatest enthusiasm reigned amidst the devoted defenders of the Imperial diadem; which was now to be strengthened by the fame of their renowned successes, and adorned with fresh wreaths of never fading laurels.

NAPOLEON, nervously anxious to strain to its utmost tension, the daring spirit and high resolve which animated his troops, galloped forward to the inner gentle slope of the eminence on the left of the Charleroi road, which, overlooking the Farm of La Haye Sainte, formed the most prominent point of his whole Line, and by which was to pass the leading Column of the Guard, there to strengthen, by the magic spell of his immediate presence, the link which bound their fortunes to his own fate, and to the destiny of the Empire. As they approached, he pointed significantly to the Allied position; a gesture which drew forth renewed shouts of "_Vive l'Empereur!_" The fond regards which he seemed to cast upon these, his old and tried campaigners, and the air of confidence he assumed, as he contemplated their advance; rivetted upon him the affectionate gaze of the devoted band, to hundreds of whom it proved the last look upon the idol for whom they were to sacrifice their lives.

At this time, D'ERLON's Corps presented an advance of Columns in _echelon_ between the Charleroi road and its Right Flank which was engaged with the Prussians: whilst REILLE's Corps, descending in Columns, some into the Wood, others into the inclosures on the right, and some also still more to the right, outside of Hougomont, and close upon the Centre of the Line, seemed bent upon carrying that Post by main force; and upon seconding, with one mighty effort, the main attack by the Imperial Guard. This general advance of Columns was preceded by a host of Skirmishers, whose Line spreading along the valley in front of D'ERLON's Corps, gradually became engaged with the Light Troops of the Left Wing of the Anglo-Allied Army; and the sudden impulse given to the rattle of musketry in the Wood of Hougomont betokened that the brave defenders of this Post were already engaged in a renewed and desperate struggle for the maintenance of its possession.

The French Skirmishers between the Wood of Hougomont and the extreme Left of their Army, continued to maintain a desultory warfare with the Allied Light Troops in the front, consisting of the 3rd Regiment of British Guards, the Light Companies of the 14th and 23rd British Regiments, and six Companies of the 51st British Regiment.

PIRÉ's Light Cavalry Brigade was still in the position it had occupied upon the extreme Left of the French Front Line, having a few Vedettes thrown out; which were narrowly watched by those belonging to Captain WODEHOUSE's Squadron of the 15th British Hussars.

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As the leading Column of the Imperial Guard began to ascend the slightly inclined tongue of ground that projects from that part of the ridge of the Duke's position in rear of the crest of which MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards was lying down at the time, it became very much exposed to the concentrated fire from nearly all the Batteries of the Anglo-Allied Right Wing, by which the most frightful havoc was dealt amidst its devoted ranks. The Line of Skirmishers which preceded it, now pushed rapidly and boldly forward up to the very summit of the Duke's position; for the purpose both of concealing by their veil of smoke the precise direction of the advance of the Columns, and of driving away the Artillerymen from their guns by the fire of which the Guard was suffering so severely.

Notwithstanding the terrible havoc made in the ranks of the leading Column of the Imperial Guard, it continued its advance in admirable order and with the greatest enthusiasm. Several of its superior Officers placed themselves at its head. NEY's horse having been shot under him; he drew his sword, and chivalrously led the way on foot, sustaining to the last his appropriate and well earned _nom de guerre--le plus brave des braves_. General FRIANT, who commanded the Grenadiers, fell severely wounded. General MICHEL, Colonel _en second_ of the _Chasseurs_, was killed a few moments afterwards. The fall of the latter occasioned some hesitation--the 1st Battalion of the 3rd Regiment of Grenadiers halted; but at the call of General PORET DE MORVAN, who commanded it, it renewed its advance at the _pas de charge_, amidst loud shouts of "_Vive l'Empereur!_" As the Column neared the rise of ground which constituted the highest point of the ridge occupied by the Right Wing of the Duke's Line, it gradually passed the line of fire hitherto directed upon it by the greater portion of the Batteries on the British right of that point.

WELLINGTON rode up to the British Foot Battery posted on the immediate right of MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards, with its own Right thrown somewhat forward, and addressing himself to an Artillery Officer (Lieutenant SHARPIN), hastily asked who commanded it. The latter replied that Captain BOLTON having just been killed, it was now under the command of Captain NAPIER. The Duke then said, "Tell him to keep a look out to his left, for the French will soon be with him." The message had scarcely been communicated when the bearskin caps of the leading divisions of the Column of the Imperial Guard appeared just above the summit of the hill. The cannonade hitherto directed upon this point from the distant French Batteries, now ceased; but a swarm of Skirmishers opened a sharp and teasing fire among the British Gunners. In the next moment, however, they were scattered and driven back upon the main body by a sudden shower of canister, grape, and shrapnel shells, poured forth from NAPIER's guns; which now kept up a terrific fire upon the Column, within a distance of forty or fifty yards. Nevertheless the French Guards continued to advance. They had now topped the summit. To the astonishment of the Officers who were at their head, there appeared in their immediate front no direct impediment to their further advance. They could only distinguish dimly through the smoke extending from NAPIER's Battery, the cocked hats of a few mounted Officers; little imagining, probably, that the most prominent of these was the great Duke himself. Pressing boldly forward, they had arrived within fifty paces of the spot on which the British Guards were lying down, when WELLINGTON gave the talismanic call--"Up, Guards; make ready!" and ordered MAITLAND to attack. It was a moment of thrilling excitement. The British Guards springing up so suddenly in a most compact four deep line, appeared to the French as if starting out of the ground. The latter, with their high bonnets, as they crowned the summit of the ridge, appeared to the British, through the smoky haze, like a Corps of giants bearing down upon them.

The British Guards instantly opened their fire with a tremendous volley, thrown in with amazing coolness, deliberation, and precision. An oblique fire was also poured in among them from the 33rd and 69th British Regiments, which HALKETT had most promptly and judiciously pushed forward to the immediate Left of the Guards at this critical moment. The head of the Column became, as it were, convulsed by the shock, and nearly the entire mass staggered under the effect. In less than a single minute more than three hundred of these brave old warriors fell, to rise no more. But the high spirit and innate valour which actuated the mass were not to be subdued by a first repulse. Its Officers, placing themselves conspicuously in its Front and on its Flanks, called aloud, waved their swords; and, by encouraging words and gestures, commenced a deployment in order to acquire a more extended front. But the head of the Column being continually shattered and driven back upon the mass, by the well sustained and rapidly destructive fire by which it was assailed within so extremely limited a space, this attempt altogether failed. The Front of the Column was becoming momentarily more disordered and broken up; men were turning round and disappearing by the Flanks, whilst others in the rear began firing over the heads of those before them.

The confusion into which the French Guards had now been thrown became manifest. The Duke ordered MAITLAND to charge; whilst, at the same instant, the gallant Lord SALTOUN, equally alive to the real situation of the Column, called out, "Now's the time, my boys!" The Brigade sprang forward, with a loud cheer, to the charge. Numbers of the French Guards nearest to the British, threw down their arms and knapsacks, and dispersed. The Flanks began rapidly to spread out; and then the mass partaking more generally of the panic, appeared as if rent asunder by some invisible power.

During the advance of the attacking Column of the Imperial Guard, one of its Battalions had moved out from the mass to its right (probably for the better security of that Flank from any attempt that might be made to molest it from the dip or hollow on that side of the projecting tongue of ground along which the main attack had proceeded), and took a direction which brought it immediately in front of HALKETT's Left Wing, consisting of the shattered remnants of the 30th and 73rd British Regiments, formed in a four deep line, scarcely exceeding, if equalling, in extent (such had been their losses), the front of the approaching Column. The order in which this Column advanced was admirable. Its formation was undisturbed by the fire of Artillery, of which Arm there was none in this part of the Field in working condition; and, as it pressed on with the compactness and regularity of a parade movement, it appeared at the same time to be animated with the best spirit. Presently the Column halted and fired; and, in return, received a well directed volley; after delivering which, the 30th and 73rd Regiments ported arms, and, with a loud cheer, dashed forward at the charge. On reaching the ground where they expected to meet the French Guards, they were greatly astonished at discovering, through the clearing smoke, that their recent opponents were flying in a mass.

At this moment, Major VAN DER SMISSEN's Dutch-Belgian Horse Battery, which had just come up by the right of HALKETT's Brigade, opened upon them a terrific fire from which they suffered immensely.

The British Guards had continued their charge some distance down the slope of the hill; when MAITLAND perceived the Second attacking Column of the Imperial Guard advancing on his right, and exposing his Brigade to the imminent risk of being turned on that flank. He accordingly resolved to face about the Right Wing of his Brigade, and to give the words, "Halt, front," as soon as he had got his Line parallel with the front of the advancing Column. This manoeuvre was executed with great regularity and precision by the Right Wing, with which MAITLAND was immediately present, and which he had well in hand. But amidst their victorious shouts, and the noise of the firing of cannon and other arms, the command was imperfectly understood by the Left Wing: and the first sense of danger led to a cry of "Form Square" being passed along their Line, it being naturally assumed that the Enemy's Cavalry would take advantage of their isolated position; which, however, was not the case. The Flanks of the 3rd Battalion, of which this Left Wing was composed, gave way as if to form Square. SALTOUN conspicuously exerted himself in endeavouring to rectify the mistake, but in vain; and the whole of the Battalion went to the rear.

The confusion in which they retired was unavoidable; but it was not the confusion consequent upon either defeat or panic: it resulted simply from a misunderstanding of the command; and no greater or more distinguished proof could be afforded of the excellent order, cool self-possession, and admirable discipline of these troops, than the steadiness, alacrity, and intelligence with which, upon regaining the crest of the ridge, they obeyed the command then given of "Halt, front, form up;" mechanically resuming their four deep formation, and instantly darting forward at the double quick, to their proper place on the left of the 2nd Battalion, so that the whole Brigade was now in one steady and compact Line; parallel with the front of the advancing Second attacking Column of the Imperial Guard.

How marked a contrast did such conduct on the part of the British Guards, who thus, in the Battle's front, so gloriously upheld their country's honour, offer to that of a considerable body of the Allied troops then posted in Second Line as their Support! D'AUBREMÉ's Infantry Brigade of CHASSÉ's Dutch-Belgian Division, which, as before stated, had been moved into the space in rear of MAITLAND's Brigade, previously occupied by the Brunswickers, was now formed into three large Squares, of two Battalions each. These troops, on hearing the loud shouts of the Second advancing Column of the French Imperial Guard--of that very Column which had been moving in rear of the British Guards while the latter were retiring from their triumphant charge towards their original position--became so unsteady, and evinced so decided a disposition to quit their ranks, that VANDELEUR, whose Brigade of British Light Dragoons was at this time drawn up in their rear, deemed it advisable to close his Squadron intervals, the better to impede their contemplated retreat; and was induced, along with his Major of Brigade, Major CHILDERS of the 16th Light Dragoons, Captain TOMKINSON of the same Regiment, and several of his Officers, on perceiving that the Squares were on the point of giving way, to dart forward and endeavour, partly by menaces, and partly by exhortations, to induce them to maintain their ground. The Dutch-Belgian Officers exerted themselves in restoring order and confidence; but their men were evidently bent upon abandoning their position in this part of the Field. Between them and the attacking Column intervened the crest of the main ridge, occupied by the Duke's First Line; the latter holding out to them a bright example of perfect discipline, of unflinching steadiness, and patient endurance. Of the attacking Column itself they could see absolutely nothing; but its shouts alone seemed sufficient to scare them off the ground! Besides, they had but just entered the immediate Field of Action, and had not hitherto been engaged with the Enemy; whereas the British Brigade of Guards had been exposed during eight hours to an incessant cannonade, and to numerous and desperate attacks of both Cavalry and Infantry. Of such materials was composed the Duke's Second Line in rear of the main point of attack by the French Army at this, the most critical moment of the whole Battle!

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The Second attacking Column of the French Imperial Guard, which, as before explained, had been formed in the hollow adjacent to the south-east angle of the Hougomont inclosures, advanced in a line parallel with, and at a very short distance from, the hedge forming the eastern boundary. On reaching the foot of the British position, however, the Column diverged a little to its right, either to take advantage of a slight undulation of the ground which seemed to offer a partial cover from the tremendous fire of Artillery that continued to pour upon it, or solely for the purpose of directing its advance upon the point at which it perceived the First attacking Column was engaged, and at which it might be better enabled to follow up any success that Column might obtain. Between the heads of the two attacking Columns there was a distance, during their advance, of from ten to twelve minutes' march. Whether this difference in the time of their movement was intentional, or arose from a misunderstanding in the conveyance of Orders, or from any other accident, is uncertain; but it is quite evident that, by forming two separate attacks, they subjected themselves to the imminent risk of being defeated in detail--a risk which, as will be presently shown, was speedily converted into a reality.

The Second, like the First, Column of Attack, advanced with great boldness, and in excellent order, and appeared animated by the best possible spirit. Its Left Front was covered by a cloud of Skirmishers, in order to conceal its movement as much as possible from the view of the British Line. The Battalions of ADAM's Brigade threw out each a Company for the purpose of checking them. During the advance of the Column, and more especially as it descended the gentle declivity eastward of the Great Orchard of Hougomont, it suffered severely from the British cannonade. So destructive indeed had been the fire from some of the British Batteries on the right of MAITLAND's Brigade, from the commencement of the advance of the Imperial Guard, that the French were at length induced suddenly to push forward a body of _Cuirassiers_ to endeavour to silence these guns. In this they partially succeeded; the _Cuirassiers_ having gallantly charged one of the Batteries, and forced the Gunners to seek shelter in the rear of the Infantry--driving in, at the same time, the Skirmishers of the 2nd Battalion of the 95th Regiment, and those of the 52nd Regiment. They were checked, however, by the to them sudden and unexpected appearance of ADAM's Brigade, which had just been moved, in its four deep line, close up to the narrow road that runs along the summit of the ridge. The 52nd Regiment, which was more directly opposed to them, came down to the "Prepare for Cavalry!"

As a renewal of the attack seemed probable, a Squadron of the 23rd British Light Dragoons, under Captain Cox, was detached across the ridge, down the outer slope, towards the Great Orchard; from the rear of which it charged the _Cuirassiers_ as they advanced again towards the guns, overcame them, and pursued them across the plain, far in rear of the Second attacking Column of the Imperial Guard, until it fell into a fire thrown out upon it from the head of a French Column of Infantry, by which its Files were scattered, and the whole compelled to make a hasty retreat towards the Allied position.

Had the Second Column of Attack continued in the original direction of its advance, it would have come upon the centre of ADAM's Brigade: but having, as it began to ascend the exterior slope of the main ridge of the Allied position, slightly diverged to its right, as before observed, by following the direction of a very gentle hollow, constituting the re-entering angle formed by the tongue of ground that projected from the front of MAITLAND's Brigade, and that part of the ridge occupied by ADAM's Brigade, it, in some degree, lent its Left Flank to the latter. This circumstance was not only observed, but had been in a great measure anticipated, by Lieutenant Colonel Sir JOHN COLBORNE, commanding the 52nd Regiment, an Officer of great repute in the British Army. He had been watching with intense anxiety the progress of the Enemy's Column; and, seizing the most favourable moment, he, without Orders, and upon his own responsibility, wheeled the Left Company of the 52nd to the left, and then formed the remainder of the Regiment upon that Company, for the purpose of bringing its front nearly parallel with the Flank of the French Column. At this moment ADAM rode up, and asked COLBORNE what he was going to do; to which the latter replied, "to make that Column feel our fire." ADAM, approving of this, ordered COLBORNE to move on; and galloped off to bring up his Right Regiment, the 71st.

The Duke, who had just seen MAITLAND's Brigade reformed and posted in the best order, parallel with the front of the attacking Column, was at this moment stationed on the right of NAPIER's Battery. He despatched an Aide de Camp (Major the Hon. HENRY PERCY) to direct Sir HENRY CLINTON to advance and attack the Imperial Guard: but a single glance at COLBORNE's forward movement satisfied him that his intention had been anticipated; and he immediately pushed forward the 2nd Battalion of the 95th Regiment to the left of the 52nd.

The head of the French Column had by this time nearly reached the brow of the ridge, its front covering almost the whole of NAPIER's Battery, and a portion of the extreme Right of MAITLAND's Brigade. It was still gallantly pressing forward, in defiance of the most galling fire poured into its front by the Battery and by the British Guards, when the sudden and imposing appearance of the four deep line of the 52nd Regiment bearing directly towards its Left Flank in the most admirable and compact order imaginable, caused it to halt. In the next instant, wheeling up its Left Sections, it opened a rapid and destructive fire from the entire length of its Left Flank against the 52nd Regiment. COLBORNE, having brought his Line parallel to the Flank of the Imperial Guard, also halted, and poured a deadly fire into the mass; and, almost at the same moment, the rifles of the 2nd Battalion 95th Regiment, then coming up on the left, were levelled and discharged with unerring aim into the more advanced portion of the Column. The 71st Regiment was, at this time, rapidly advancing on the right, to complete the Brigade movement.

COLBORNE, eager fully to carry out his projected Flank Attack upon the Enemy's Column, caused his men to cease firing, and then gave the command, "Charge! charge!" It was answered by three hearty British cheers that rose distinctly above the shouts of "_Vive l'Empereur!_", and the now straggling and unsteady fire from the Column. The 2nd Battalion 95th Regiment hastened to join in the charge on the left. The movement was remarkable for the order, the steadiness, the resoluteness, and the daring, by which it was characterised. The Column of the Imperial Guard, which already seemed to reel to and fro under the effect of the front and flank fire which had been so successfully brought to bear upon it, was evidently in consternation as it beheld the close advance of ADAM's Brigade. Some daring spirits--and it contained many within its ranks--still endeavoured to make at least a show of resistance; but the disorder, which had been rapidly increasing, now became uncontrollable: and this Second Column of the Imperial Guard, breaking into the wildest confusion, shared the fate of the First; with this difference, however, that in consequence of the combined front and flank fire in which it had been so fatally involved, and of the unrestrained pursuit which deprived it of the power of rallying its component parts, it became so thoroughly disjointed and dispersed that, with the exception of the two rear Battalions which constituted the 1st Regiment of _Chasseurs_ (Old Guard), it is extremely doubtful whether any portion of it ever reunited, as a regularly formed military body, during the brief remaining period of the Battle--certainly not on the Allied side of La Belle Alliance, towards which point it directed its retreat.

It is necessary to remark that this Regiment of the Old Guard, which was commanded by General CAMBRONNE, formed a separate Column of Support in _echelon_ to, and immediate left rear of, the three Battalions of the Middle Guard: but so close to each other were the two Columns, that although an interval was observed between them by ADAM's Brigade when the latter stood in the general Front Line of the Allied position, they appeared to it but as one Column, when charged in flank; and may, to all intents and purposes, be considered as having formed one general Column of Attack. CAMBRONNE's Battalions, however, forming the rear of the Column, did not become exposed to the fire from ADAM's Brigade; inasmuch as neither the 71st Regiment nor the 2nd Battalion 95th Regiment could complete the Brigade flank movement in time to open a fire upon the mass before the actual charge was commenced. Hence, although they turned, along with the rest of the Column; yet, unlike the latter, they retained a considerable degree of order.

Troops could scarcely be placed in a more critical situation than was this Second attacking Column of the Imperial Guard from the moment it came to a halt. With its Front immediately facing a Battery within sixty or seventy yards' distance, the double shotted guns of which continued ploughing through the mass, and tearing up its ranks; with its Left Flank faced outwards to repel a formidable attack on that side, and its Right Flank partially exposed to the oblique fire from the greater portion of the Line of British Guards; the interior of the mass, enveloped in smoke, feeling a pressure from both Front and Flank, and yet perceiving no indication of the means of extricating itself from so perilous a position, it was truly a most trying moment even to such veteran warriors as those which constituted the renowned Imperial Guard of France.

Any attempt at deployment to its right, while thus attacked on its left, was of course out of the question. Had it continued to advance until ADAM's Brigade had approached quite close to its Left Flank, the charge of the latter must have brought it to a stand, and rendered the efforts of the head of the Column abortive. If, on the other hand, after having faced altogether to the Left, and converted that Flank into a compact Line, it had advanced to meet the 52nd Regiment when it first became aware of this attack, it would still have been exposed on the right (its previous Front) to the havoc created by NAPIER's guns, as also to a charge by MAITLAND's Brigade; which by bringing forward its left shoulders, might have rendered the situation of the Column so hopeless, as probably to have led to its immediate and unqualified surrender on the spot.

The dilemma into which these veterans were thus thrown was mainly attributable to the fatal neglect of not accompanying the Column with an effective Support of Cavalry. A strong body of the latter on each Flank, or in its immediate rear, would have secured the Column from any such Flank Attack as that which so successfully arrested its progress, and so completely effected its dispersion.

The direction given to ADAM's Line by its "right shoulder forward" movement having brought it perpendicular to the general front of the French position, that Officer became naturally anxious for support upon his Right Flank, to secure the latter from the Enemy's Cavalry; which, it was to be presumed, would now be brought forward from his Reserve, since none of it had been employed in immediate support of the last attack. He urgently requested for this purpose, the aid of troops from the other part of CLINTON's Division; and Lieutenant Colonel HALKETT, seeing what was required, immediately advanced with the nearest Battalion of his Hanoverian Brigade, the Osnabrück Landwehr, in Column at quarter distance, and close up in right rear of the 71st Regiment. Thus ADAM's Brigade, maintaining its four deep line, and being flanked by the Hanoverian Battalion which could form Square at any moment, was secured against Cavalry.

The confused and disordered mass of the Imperial Guard, from the first impulse given to it by the flank charge, hastened a short distance in a direction parallel with that of the Anglo-Allied Line, and then naturally inclining towards the French position, it fell into nearly the same track of retreat as that pursued by the First attacking Column, namely towards the first rise of ground intersected by the Charleroi road, a little beyond the southern extremity of the Orchard of La Haye Sainte. As it approached the rear of those Columns of D'ERLON's Corps, which had been so desperately opposing ALTEN's Division; the latter became infected with the panic, and commingled with the flying Guard.

ADAM's Brigade continued its triumphant advance, at first parallel, for a short distance, to the Allied Line; and then, bringing forward its left shoulders, swept proudly onward in the direction of the French Height before mentioned; crowds of fugitives hurrying along and striving to escape from the pursuing wave that seemed every instant on the point of engulfing them.

During its advance, the front of ADAM's Brigade was partially crossed by the Squadron of the 23rd Light Dragoons, under Lieutenant BANNER, retiring in disorder from its charge. Mistaken for hostile Cavalry, these Dragoons were unfortunately fired upon by the 52nd Regiment; and it was not until the foremost of them had fallen close upon the bayonets, that the error was discovered.

Immediately after this incident, a fire of grape was opened upon the 52nd by three French field pieces in the prolongation of its Right Flank. This enfilading of the Regiment in its four deep line was a judicious measure on the part of the French Artillery, and well calculated to derange the advance of ADAM's Brigade. It was, however, very gallantly and speedily checked by the wheeling up and advance of the Right Section of the 52nd, under Lieutenant GAWLER; who succeeded in driving off the guns, whilst the rest of the Regiment continued its pursuit.

WELLINGTON, as soon as he saw that the success of the charge by ADAM's Brigade was so decisive, requested UXBRIDGE immediately to launch forward some fresh Cavalry to check the probable advance of that of the Enemy; and to second the efforts of the Infantry in front, by boldly attacking the French Reserves, which appeared collected in front of La Belle Alliance, the critical point of NAPOLEON's Line.

Lieutenant Colonel Lord GREENOCK, Assistant Quarter Master General of the Cavalry, was despatched to VIVIAN with Orders for him to move his Hussar Brigade to its right from its position in rear of ALTEN's Division, so as to get clear of the Infantry, and then to advance directly to the front by the right of MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards.

At the same time, the Duke turned round to order up the nearest Supports to the space which had been vacated in his Front Line by the advance of ADAM's Brigade. But what a spectacle met his view! The three Dutch-Belgian Squares, into which D'AUBREMÉ's Brigade had been formed, and whose unsteadiness, previously described, had greatly augmented as the firing and shouting on the exterior slope of the ridge, of which they could see nothing, became more continuous and intense, were now in a state bordering on dissolution. The faces of the Squares were already broken at intervals by groups in the act of abandoning their ranks; whilst several Officers of VANDELEUR's Brigade, which, as before observed (see pages 526-527), was drawn up in their rear, were zealously exerting themselves in endeavouring to induce these troops to stand fast.

The Duke, observing this, called out, "That's right; tell them the French are retiring." This intelligence, quickly caught up and spread through their ranks, had the desired effect of restoring them to order. They shortly afterwards formed into Columns, and advanced to the Front Line.

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In order to preserve a distinct and connected view of the combined operations against NAPOLEON, it will be necessary, previously to describing the General Advance of the Allied Line, consequent upon the failure of the attack by the French Imperial Guard, to revert to the movements of the Prussians.

It will be recollected that VIVIAN's, and subsequently VANDELEUR's, Brigade, quitted the Left of the Anglo-Allied Line, on the approach of the Advanced Guard of ZIETEN's Corps towards that point. Shortly before the arrival of these troops, the French Skirmishers in front of DURUTTE's Division, which constituted the angle of the _potence_ on which stood the extreme Right of NAPOLEON's Army, having been considerably reinforced, were pushed forward for the purpose of establishing themselves in the houses and inclosures in the valley below them; and of impeding, by this means, the connection between BÜLOW's Corps and the Anglo-Allied Left. The Nassauers, of Prince BERNHARD of Saxe Weimar's Brigade, fell back from the houses of the Hamlet of Papelotte; but firmly maintained their ground on the Allied side of the valley, retaining possession of the Farms of Papelotte and La Haye. The French Skirmishers, passing further to their right, pressed on to the Village of Smohain; where they became warmly engaged with the Prussian troops that had been so judiciously posted in that quarter.

BLÜCHER, perceiving the Infantry of the Advanced Guard of ZIETEN's Corps upon the Height above Smohain, sent an Order for its moving by the shortest way to engage the Enemy in the valley. The Prussian General MÜFFLING, attached to the Headquarters Staff of the Duke of WELLINGTON, was at that moment in this vicinity, and gave the requisite instructions to the Staff Officer sent forward from ZIETEN's Corps.

About this time, the Fifth and Sixth Infantry Brigades, as also the Reserve Cavalry of PIRCH's Corps, reached the Field, in rear of BÜLOW. PIRCH, placing himself at the head of his leading Brigade (the Fifth), immediately conducted it in the direction of Planchenoit; and, on coming up with the Fourteenth and Sixteenth Brigades, he began, in conjunction with Colonel HILLER, to make the necessary dispositions for the Third attack upon that Village. The Sixth Brigade was ordered to follow as a Reserve; and the attack was to be supported by a simultaneous advance of the Right Wing of BÜLOW's Corps against LOBAU's Line, which was exceedingly well drawn up, and exhibited every indication of making a determined stand. BLÜCHER had despatched an Order to the Seventh Brigade (of PIRCH's Corps) to move together with the 4th Kurmark Landwehr Cavalry, upon Maransart, on the south side of the Lasne, for the purpose of covering his Left Flank. The remaining Brigade (the Eighth) of PIRCH's Corps, which had been detained in consequence of the Rear Guard affair near Wavre, received Orders from PIRCH to quicken its advance.

The Reserve Cavalry of PIRCH's Corps was deployed in three Lines on the right of the Cavalry of the Fourth Corps. The First Line consisted of the Pomeranian Hussars and the Brandenburg Hussars; the Second, of the Silesian Uhlans, two Squadrons of the 6th Neumark Dragoons, and the Queen's Dragoons; and the Third, of the 5th Kurmark and Elbe Landwehr Cavalry. These Lines of Cavalry thus occupied the interval between the Wings of BÜLOW's Corps; and, at the same time, served to impose, by their display of force, upon the French Cavalry, under DOMON, which was then in reserve.

BLÜCHER, judging the recapture of Planchenoit to be a most essential aid in the general operations against the French, as affording the means not only of turning the Right of LOBAU's Corps, but also of molesting the Rear of the French Army, and of endangering its main line of retreat, ordered the immediate advance of the troops destined for the Third attack upon that Village.

They were formed in the following order:--The 2nd and 3rd Battalions of the 2nd Regiment (Fifth Brigade) made the attack in the direction of the Church; the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 5th Westphalian Landwehr, formed into one, were directed upon the French left of the Village; the 1st Battalion of the 2nd Regiment followed in rear of the central space between these two Columns; Major WITZLEBEN led the 3rd Battalion of the 25th Regiment (Fifth Brigade) towards the Heights on the (French) right of the Village; and the remainder of this Regiment, which had occupied the outer edge of the Wood of Virère on the left, also advanced. The 11th Regiment and the 2nd Pomeranian Landwehr, belonging to the Fourteenth Brigade, and the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 15th Regiment, with the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 1st Silesian Landwehr, belonging to the Sixteenth Brigade, followed in support of this attack. The whole force was disposed in chequered Columns, preceded by a strong Line of Skirmishers, and covered by the Prussian Batteries on the Heights in rear.

The Horse Battery, No. 6, posted on the high ground upon the right of the Wood of Virère, was principally occupied in diverting the fire from a Horse Battery of the Reserve Artillery of the French Imperial Guard, which had one half of its guns above the hollow way formed by the road leading down into Planchenoit from La Maison du Roi, and the other half detached to an elevated spot in the south part of the Village, whence it had a commanding view of a considerable portion of the advancing Columns.

Simultaneously with this Third attack upon Planchenoit, the Thirteenth and Fifteenth Brigades, which constituted BÜLOW's Right Wing, advanced against LOBAU's Line, covered by a force of Artillery much superior to that which the French could bring to bear against them. They were disposed in chequered Columns of Battalions, in the following manner:--In Front Line were the 2nd Battalion of the 18th Regiment and the 3rd Battalion of the 3rd Silesian Landwehr; in the Second Line were the 1st and 3rd Battalions of the 18th Regiment, the 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 3rd Silesian Landwehr, and the 1st Battalion of the 10th Regiment; in the Third Line were the three Battalions of the 4th Silesian Landwehr, and the 2nd Battalion of the 10th Regiment. The three Battalions of the 3rd Neumark Landwehr followed in reserve.

The Right of this advance was supported by the West Prussian Uhlans and the 2nd Neumark Landwehr Cavalry.

In the mean time, the First Infantry Brigade of ZIETEN's Corps, having continued its descent into the valley, passing HACKE's Infantry in and about Smohain on its left, advanced upon La Haye and Papelotte, and mistaking the Nassauers for French, through the similarity of uniform, opened a sharp fire upon them, and drove them from their Post. The latter at first replied to this fire, which was kept up for some minutes, killing and wounding on both sides, until the error was discovered. These troops then began pressing forward, conjointly with those from Smohain, against the French Skirmishers.

The Advanced Cavalry of ZIETEN's Corps, which had been seen approaching the Left of WELLINGTON's Line, had now joined. The Brandenburg Dragoons and Brandenburg Uhlans, drew up in Line in rear of the Wavre road, and on the immediate Left of BEST's Hanoverian Infantry Brigade. The 1st Silesian Hussars formed upon the outer slope of the ridge, in rear of the lane leading from the Wavre road down to Papelotte. The 2nd Kurmark Landwehr Cavalry drew up in the hollow in the rear of the interval between the Landwehr Battalions Osterode and Verden of BEST's Brigade. It was on the ground immediately in front of this interval that Captain RETTBERG's Hanoverian Foot Battery had been posted throughout the day: and as the latter had expended the whole of its ammunition, it withdrew to the rear as the Prussian Horse Battery, No. 7, came up, by which it was then relieved; and the Prussians opened a cannonade from this point upon the opposite Heights. The Prussian Foot Battery, No. 7, quitting the Wavre road, proceeded some way down the outer slope of the ridge to seek a favourable point whence it could by its fire cover the advance of the Infantry in the valley.

Such was the general disposition of BLÜCHER's forces relatively with that of WELLINGTON's Army at the time when the latter had defeated the attacking Columns of the French Imperial Guard; and was following up its triumph by boldly assailing the very Centre of NAPOLEON's position, at which point the latter had collected his sole remaining Reserves. Perhaps a more comprehensive view of this relative disposition of the Prussian troops may be afforded by simply stating, by way of a summary, that the advanced portion of ZIETEN's Corps had joined the Left of the Allied Line, that part of PIRCH's Corps (including his Reserve Cavalry) had joined BÜLOW; and that the latter was on the advance--his Right to attack LOBAU, and his Left to make a Third assault upon Planchenoit--the French opposed to them evincing, at all points, every indication of making a firm and determined stand.

* * * * *

We must now resume the detail of the brilliant and decisive dispositions of the Duke of WELLINGTON, whom we left triumphantly defeating the French Imperial Guard, and requesting the Earl of UXBRIDGE to bring forward fresh Cavalry, to aid the advancing Infantry in taking immediate advantage of the disorder and confusion into which the Enemy had been thrown by the failure of his last grand attack.

There is not, perhaps, an instance in modern history, in which the threatening tide of battle, has, through the lightning-like promptitude of decision, and the energetic application of yet remaining resources, been so suddenly and powerfully controlled, and so majestically and irresistibly hurled back, overwhelming all and everything that, in the previous plenitude of its force it had borne aloft with buoyant hopes, and carried along exultingly in its course, as it was by the immortal WELLINGTON in this his last, his crowning, victory. Never did a battle field present so complete, so magical, a transition of scene as that which succeeded the defeat of the Imperial Guards of France by the Guards of the Sovereign of England and the British Light Infantry Brigade.

The state of the Duke's Army at the time of NAPOLEON's last grand attack has already been adverted to; but let us glance again, for a moment, at the awfully diminished numbers, and almost exhausted energies, of those heroic bands which, in Front Line, had been exposed to the incessant and concentrated cannonade from a range of Batteries forming almost the entire arc of which that Line was the chord [_or rather_ forming the chord of which that Line was the arc]; subjected to repeated and vigorous attacks of all Arms during so many hours; and now called upon to resist "to the death" another assault more fierce and determined than any they had yet encountered--look at the rear of that Line, and observe the palpable defection in the ranks of an Ally; whose Contingent, whilst it constituted so great a proportion of the Duke's entire force, had already afforded too evident proofs that in a calculation of available resources, its services must be thrown entirely out of the scale--see, too, at increased intervals, the wrecks of the British and German Cavalry, with, however, the fortunate exception of the two Light Brigades so opportunely brought from the extreme Left to the rear of the menaced point of attack--how discouraging an aspect, when compared with that of the French Army advancing to its last grand attack! Is it to be wondered that, at that moment, doubts as to the issue of the great contest should have prevailed in the minds even of those who were prepared to support their noble Chief to the last drop of their blood?

And yet, with such apparently inefficient elements, the bare contemplation of which might have both weighed down the energies, and altered the purpose, of another General, did the British Chief not only successfully defeat this most formidable assault, but finally gain a signal and resplendent victory. It would, however, be unjust to the abilities, and to the fame of the Duke, to ascribe such victory solely to his defeat of the attacking Columns of the Imperial Guard upon his own position; though such, no doubt, was the foundation upon which he erected the structure of his final triumph. The nine Battalions of the Guard, of which the attacking Columns had been composed, were defeated; but these, it must be borne in mind, constituted but the _Van_ of the attacking force, which comprised no less than the whole Front Line of the French Army. D'ERLON's Corps from the right, and REILLE's Corps from the left, were pouring forth their numerous Columns, the principal portion of which had already reached more than midway towards the Allied position, and presented a formidable array; whilst from the Heights which they had quitted, their Artillery thundered forth as vigorously, over their heads, upon the exhausted Line of the Allies, as at any previous period of the Battle.

The four Battalions of the First attacking Column of the Guard had been rallied with great rapidity by NAPOLEON; and posted on a commanding eminence, intersected by the Charleroi road in front of his Centre. Near La Belle Alliance, Reserves had been collected, principally of Cavalry; and though the latter consisted entirely of the remains of Corps that had previously suffered great losses, they might have been wielded with powerful effect against any point at which the advancing Infantry should succeed in making an impression. Besides these, there stood on the French extreme Left, a Brigade of Light Cavalry which had not been engaged during any part of the day, and had never yet moved out of its position.

On the other hand, too, however glorious the result of the struggle with the Imperial Guard, it could not but tend to cripple still further the slender physical means which the Duke yet retained at his disposal. Victory, hovering over the brave Conquerors of the Imperial Guard, alighted for a moment at the feet of WELLINGTON; and ere the Goddess could be scared away by the still threatening countenance of the Enemy, Britain's Hero secured her favour by the display of that extraordinary foresight, prompt decision, and unflinching determination which, though at all times his distinguishing characteristics, now shone forth with more than ordinary brilliancy. His perfect knowledge of the character and composition of the French Army plainly told him that a signal defeat of the Imperial Guard, a force employed only on occasions of great and critical emergency, would be certain to exercise a powerful influence upon the _morale_ of the Enemy's troops; but it also told him that, unless instant advantage were taken of that defeat, unless it were followed up in such a manner as to render the incipient panic which it had created, general and uncontrollable, that same Army might, through the powerful influence and indefatigable exertions of such men as NAPOLEON and NEY, rapidly recover the shock; D'ERLON's and REILLE's Columns, although faltering for a moment, might pursue their advance with determined efforts to regain the footing which the Guard had lost; the veterans composing the latter force, resolved to avenge their defeat, might speedily rally, and, with desperate resolution, renew their attack, aided by a more direct and effective support by the Cavalry Reserves collected in front of La Belle Alliance.

This view had scarcely passed across the mind of the Duke, when his decision was fully made. With those critically slender means, to which allusion has more than once been made, and which in the hands of many a Commander would have been deemed totally inadequate for even the maintenance of the position, at such fearful odds, WELLINGTON determined to compensate for the awfully reduced and exhausted state of the fighting portion of his troops, and the utter want of confidence in the remainder, by one of those bold and daring acts, which, when hazarded at the right moment, carry with them the _prestige_ of conscious superiority, and allow an Enemy no time to discover deficiencies, or to calculate mischances.

No sooner was the Second attacking Column of the Imperial Guard defeated and dispersed, than he ordered it to be vigorously pursued, and the rallied force of the First Column to be attacked, by ADAM's Brigade; whilst at the same moment he launched forth VIVIAN's Hussar Brigade against the Cavalry Reserves near La Belle Alliance, before these had made their dispositions for attack, and even before they had recovered from the surprise and hesitation which prevailed amongst them on witnessing the discomfiture of the Guard.

VIVIAN, the moment he received the Order to advance, wheeled his Brigade, Half Squadrons to the right. Thus the 10th Hussars became the leading Regiment, the 18th Hussars followed, and the 1st Hussars of the German Legion, which had stood in Second Line, moved off, as soon as its front was clear, in rear of the latter Corps. The Brigade proceeded, at a trot, a short distance in rear of the Infantry, and parallel to the crest of the position; and, as it approached the right of MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards, VIVIAN, ordering the leading Half Squadron to wheel to the left, through NAPIER's Battery, led it perpendicularly to the front. As the Column thus advanced across the ridge, in Left Front of VANDELEUR's Light Cavalry Brigade, it was saluted by the latter with cheers of encouragement; and in a similar manner by MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards as it passed their Flank. The smoke lay heavily along the entire position; and especially, at this moment, over that part of the exterior slope of the ridge on which the struggle with the French Imperial Guard had taken place, and across which VIVIAN was now leading his Brigade.

On advancing further, and getting clear of the smoke, he obtained a more distinct view of the dispositions of the Enemy's forces in his direct front. A very considerable portion appeared in great confusion; disordered Columns of Infantry were hurrying back to the main position, up the slope, on which were numerous stragglers of all Arms, and in various uniforms, mixed together and retiring in crowds. Guns were firing from different points to cover the retreat, and the discharge of musketry in and about Hougomont continued very brisk.

On arriving about midway towards the Enemy's position, well formed bodies of troops were observed on the French left of La Belle Alliance, posted as if fully prepared to resist the threatened attack. They consisted of two Squares of Infantry, with Cavalry and guns formed on the Flanks and between them. The Cavalry on their left was somewhat advanced, comprising separate bodies, partially covering one another, but presenting a general front, and posted on some rising ground about two hundred yards on the Allied left of the south-east angle of the Hougomont inclosures. The two Squares here alluded to were the two Battalions of the Grenadiers of the Old Guard, which had been placed in reserve of the main attack by that force as previously explained. The Cavalry on the left was thus disposed--first, on the slope of the little eminence, a portion of the Lancers of the Imperial Guard; then, in left rear of the latter, on lower ground, were two Squadrons of the Dragoons of the Guard, and, in their right rear, two more Squadrons of the same Corps; in right rear of these again, and on the summit of the eminence, stood the Brigade of Carabiniers. In rear of these, and of the Squares themselves, as also on the right of the latter, were collected the remainder of that portion of the French Cavalry which had made such repeated attacks upon the Duke's Line during the day. All these different bodies of Cavalry were but mere wrecks of their former selves--Regiments, and, in many instances, entire Brigades, were diminished to less than Squadrons. In the morning, as they came fresh into the Field, they constituted the flower of the French Cavalry; now, so severe had been their losses, they presented a mere phantom of their former splendour.

VIVIAN, as soon as he perceived this disposition of the Enemy's forces in his immediate front, decided upon forming a Front Line with the 10th and 18th British Hussars, and upon holding the 1st Hussars of the German Legion in Second Line, in support. For this purpose, and also with a view to oppose, and, if possible, to turn, the Left of the Enemy's Cavalry, he made the leading Regiment, the 10th Hussars, incline to its right.

Shortly afterwards, VIVIAN was joined by Colonel Sir COLIN CAMPBELL of the Staff, who brought him an Order from the Duke that he was not to attack before the Infantry came up, unless he felt confident of success. VIVIAN remarked that as the Allied Infantry in its anxiety to get on, was probably not in compact order, its safety might be seriously endangered should it be exposed to a Cavalry attack; and that, in his opinion, it would be better that not a moment should be lost on his part in driving off the Cavalry which appeared in his front. Sir COLIN CAMPBELL coincided in this opinion, and returned to the Duke.

After the very short pause at the head of the Column, consequent upon this little discussion, VIVIAN, continuing the advance, ordered the 10th Hussars to form Line on the front Half Squadron, and, at the same time, sent Orders to his two other Regiments also to form Line on their leading Half Squadrons respectively, but then to remain in support. The rapid pace which had been maintained by the head of the Column, and the incline to the right which had been given to it, required great activity on the part of the Left Half Squadrons to get up into Line; and as VIVIAN ordered the charge as soon as the first Squadron was formed, it was executed not in Line but rather in _echelon_ of Squadrons, which, under the circumstances of the moment, as will presently be seen, was the preferable and more desirable formation.

Just as the charge was ordered, the 2nd Light Dragoons of the King's German Legion, in a Column of Squadrons, which had been detached from the main position, almost simultaneously with the advance of VIVIAN's Brigade, came up on the right of the 10th Hussars, and in a direction rather crossing the front of the latter Regiment, which had its left thrown somewhat forward whilst the Germans were moving straight to their front, and directly upon the French Dragoons of the Guard before mentioned as posted in the hollow on the Allied right of the eminence on which stood the French Cavalry about to be charged by VIVIAN's Brigade. The Dragoons at first appeared disposed to resist the Germans, and received them with a tolerably effective carbine fire from their rear ranks; but the former charged home, cut down several of the Enemy's horsemen, and made some prisoners. In following up the charge, however, the Regiment exposed its Right Flank to a body of _Cuirassiers_, by which it was thrown into disorder. Lieutenant Colonel DE JONQUIÈRES, the Commanding Officer, ordered the halt and rally to be sounded; but in the next moment he was wounded, as was also Lieutenant Colonel MAYDELL.

Major FRIEDRICHS, who was next in command, highly distinguished himself on this occasion by the spirited manner in which he rallied several of his men together; and as those that had been dispersed, rapidly placed themselves on his flanks, and thus extended his new Line, he made another charge, which sent the Enemy's Cavalry about, and put it to flight. The Regiment then continued moving forward, with proper caution, along the base of the higher ground on the left, over which the 10th British Hussars were also charging and advancing.

In the mean time, the latter Regiment made its charge: the Right, Centre, and Left Squadrons, in rapid succession, dashed in amongst the French Cavalry posted as before mentioned. The Left Squadron of the 10th had scarcely closed with the Enemy, before the whole of the Cavalry on the (French) left of the Squares of the Guard, was in full flight. VIVIAN, perceiving the complete success of this brilliant charge, ordered a halt; and then returned as quickly as possible to the 18th Hussars.

After the 10th Hussars had pursued the French Cavalry about two hundred yards, a body of _Cuirassiers_ charged their Right Squadron, on its Right Flank, and forced it about a hundred yards away to the left, whilst the Centre and Left Squadrons not being aware of VIVIAN's Order to halt continued their pursuit, inclining to their right, under Lieutenant Colonel Lord ROBERT MANNERS, then commanding the 10th.

Previously to describing the subsequent proceedings of this Brigade, it is necessary to revert to other matters in order to connect them with the general disposition of the main Army.

* * * * *

ADAM's Light Infantry Brigade had, in the mean time, been steadily advancing from the moment of its charge upon the Left Flank of the Second attacking Column of the French Imperial Guard, sweeping along the front of the Right Centre of the Anglo-Allied position, and bringing forward its left shoulders as it neared the Charleroi road, so that its Left skirted the Orchard of La Haye Sainte. It had now reached the hollow immediately under the nearest French Height which was intersected by that road, and upon which the troops that had composed the first attacking Column of the Guard had been rallied by NAPOLEON, and formed into three Squares. The 2nd Regiment of _Chasseurs_ of the Old Guard having formed the extreme Left of the attacking force had been closely observed by Lieutenant Colonel HALKETT, who continued to follow it very steadily with the Osnabrück Landwehr Battalion as it retired towards the high road, inclining to La Belle Alliance.

WELLINGTON, perceiving the confusion in which the Columns of the French Imperial Guard fell back after the decided failure of their attack--a confusion which was evidently extending itself with wonderful rapidity to a vast portion of the troops in their vicinity who witnessed their discomfiture; remarking also the beautiful advance of VIVIAN's Hussar Brigade against the French Reserves posted close to La Belle Alliance, and in the very heart of NAPOLEON's position; as well as the steady and triumphant march of ADAM's Brigade, which, driving a host of fugitives before it, had now closely approached the nearest rise of the French position contiguous to the Charleroi road; finally, observing that BÜLOW's movement upon Planchenoit had begun to take effect, perceiving the fire of his cannon, and being also aware that part of a Prussian Corps had joined his own Left by Ohain,--he ordered a General Advance of the whole of his Line of Infantry, supported by the Cavalry and Artillery.

As this long wished for command rapidly passed along the Line, loud and joyous were the shouts with which it was received. The passive endurance, not unaccompanied by murmurs, with which the Allied troops had, during so many hours, withstood the incessant attacks of Cavalry, Infantry, and Artillery, to which so vast, so awful, a proportion of their comrades had fallen a sacrifice, now gave place to feelings of intense exultation, of intoxicating triumph. At the same time, when they saw that the Advance was general, that the Enemy had retired in confusion from his last grand attack, and that the Brigades detached to the front were boldly assailing his Reserves, the conviction flashed across their minds that if the Duke had hitherto resisted their demands to be led to the attack, his consummate and unerring judgement had caused him to defer the advance until that attack could be undertaken with every probability of success.

Just at this decisive moment, the faint rays of the setting sun shone forth, and as they struggled to penetrate the almost universal haze created by the hitherto unremitting volumes of smoke which a close dense atmosphere appeared incapable of altogether dissipating, they cast upon the varied and multitudinous objects on the Field, a lurid light, imparting to them a colouring so strikingly impressive, as can never be effaced from the memories of those who witnessed that magnificent Battle scene.

In front of the Line, on the rise occupied by MAITLAND's Brigade of Guards, stood prominently in view, the great and noble Duke himself, his hat raised high in air, as the signal for the commencement of the General Advance; leaders in front of their Divisions and Brigades, appearing, by their animated gestures, to take their tone from their great Chieftain; unfurled Colours raised aloft, proudly displaying their shattered remnants; drums, bugles, trumpets, sending forth their warlike sounds to commingle with the enthusiastic and tumultuous cheering of the troops; Artillerymen occupied in working out their guns from the soft soil in which they had become so deeply imbedded; Squadrons and Supports pressing forward to gain the ridge, as this became vacated by the First Line, to behold, and participate in, the glorious triumph; numerous isolated Soldiers, hurrying on, wherever they could be spared from attending the wounded, to join their ranks, and share in the inspiring excitement of such a moment; in the distance, in front, the retiring masses of the French, intermingled with crowds of fugitives of all Arms, mounted and dismounted; far away to the left, the dark Columns of the Prussians, and the smoke ascending from their Batteries; on the right, and somewhat in advance, the dense vapour still slowly circling upwards from the glowing embers of Hougomont, assuming a reddish glare as it floated over the heads of the brave defenders of that Post of Honour;--all appeared to the eyes of the beholder illumined, as it were, by a light partaking rather of the supernatural, than of the ordinary effects of sunshine. It was of brief duration. The sun sank rapidly below the horizon, and if the gorgeous colouring which departed with it had been congenial to the exhilarated feelings of the victors; so, in an equal degree, must the succeeding twilight, rendered still more gloomy by a clouded sky, have toned in with the dejected and gloomy spirits of the vanquished. With these there prevailed no other sentiments than those of a vexed and mortified perplexity, or an extreme dismay. The panic which had set in was extending itself wildly and speedily throughout the Line, and despondency was depicted in every countenance.

The Duke galloped off to ADAM's Brigade, which was then in the valley immediately below the Height on which the three Squares of the French Guard were posted; and as these appeared inclined to make a stand, he ordered ADAM to attack them. The latter, however, suggested to his Grace that as the Brigade, in consequence of its rapid advance over the heavy soil in the valley, encumbered as the latter was with dead and dying men and horses, both singly and in heaps, had become somewhat loose in its formation, it might be advisable to halt it, to allow the Files to close in. This was accordingly done. But after a few moments only had elapsed, the Duke said, "They won't stand--better attack them;" and being at the time close to the Colours of the centre Regiment (the 52nd), he called out, "Go on, COLBORNE, go on!"

* * * * *

Colonel Sir COLIN CAMPBELL now rejoined the Duke, and explained the grounds upon which VIVIAN had decided upon attacking the French Cavalry Reserves: on learning which Lord UXBRIDGE, who was present, determined upon personally leading the attack with the Hussars, and participating in the final and decisive triumph of the British Cavalry; and was on the point of darting off to that part of the Field, when his intentions were suddenly frustrated by a grape shot from a Battery on the Height above him striking and severely wounding his right leg.

Reluctantly compelled to desist from further exertion, this gallant and noble warrior, who had so bravely, so chivalrously, so skilfully, and so successfully, led the British Cavalry throughout the day, had still the satisfaction of feeling and knowing that although not permitted to witness the closing triumph of that branch of the Service of which he was at once the Chief, the ornament, and pride, he had well and truly performed his duty to his Sovereign and his country. He was supported for some moments by Sir COLIN CAMPBELL, and shortly afterwards, with the assistance of a party of the 23rd Light Dragoons, carried into the high road, along which he was borne to Waterloo; and, when subsequently undergoing, at that Village, the necessary operation of amputation, so great were the satisfaction and contentment which had been wrought in his mind as he calmly reflected on the brilliant exploits that had marked the arduous and varied struggle, that observing the anxious and compassionate looks of his friends around his couch, he exclaimed, "Who would not lose a leg for such a victory?"

Seldom indeed has a Cavalry Chief more distinguished himself in the Field than did the Earl of UXBRIDGE on this great day. As he flew from one point to another, now boldly rushing into the fight at the head of a glorious charge, then skilfully covering a retreat under the pressure of overpowering numbers; here zealously endeavouring by his own personal example to stimulate and rouse into action the lukewarm energies of an Ally; there collecting and rallying, for further high emprize, the remnants of the devoted bands of his own nation; restlessly vigilant in watching and preparing for the manoeuvres of a renowned and powerful Cavalry, admirably appointed and equipped, and led by a KELLERMANN, a GUYOT, and a LEFÈBVRE DESNOUETTES; evincing the most cool and resolute confidence in the prowess of his followers, as he dashed forward either to break asunder the combined advance of the Enemy's masses, or to follow up the advantage already gained by the Allied Infantry--he seemed to blend and embody in his own character, in a pre-eminent degree, the heroic valour of ancient chivalry with the skilled address of modern Cavalry tacticians.

* * * * *

As ADAM's Brigade ascended the hill, in compliance with WELLINGTON's Orders, to charge the French Squares, it was received with a heavy fire from their Front and Flanks. The Duke being at this time close to the centre of the advancing Line, against which point this fire was principally directed, incurred great personal risk; and as the shot flew fast and thick about him, Sir COLIN CAMPBELL said to him, "This is no place for you--you had better move."

To this the Duke replied, "I will when I see those fellows off." On the near and imposing approach of the Brigade, in the attitude of charging, the Imperial Guard ceased firing, faced to the rear, and commenced a retreat by word of command.

As they withdrew, his Grace rode up the valley in the direction of his right front, and came upon the plain, on which VIVIAN was successfully attacking the French Reserves.

* * * * *

The gallant charge made by the 10th Hussars upon the French Cavalry posted in its right front, has already been described.

After ordering the halt and rally, VIVIAN galloped towards the 18th Hussars, which Regiment he found well formed in Line, and in perfect order. In its front stood the two Squares of the Grenadiers of the Old Guard: in its left front, and much nearer to it, were posted Artillery and Cavalry, in advance of the proper Right of the Squares. This Cavalry consisted principally of _Cuirassiers_--the wrecks of entire Brigades. Nearer to, and partly in rear of, the Squares, stood the _Chasseurs_ and _Grenadiers à Cheval_ of the Imperial Guard, greatly reduced in numbers.

It was immediately evident to VIVIAN that the attack must in the first instance be directed against the Advanced Cavalry and Artillery; and having put the Line in motion, he placed himself in front of the Centre, beside Lieutenant Colonel the Hon. HENRY MURRAY, the Commanding Officer, for the purpose of putting the Regiment into the required direction. This having been effected, he ordered the charge; when the Hussars dashed forward with the greatest impetuosity, and, at the same time, with as much steadiness and regularity as if they had been at Field Day exercise on Hounslow Heath. Thus, the direction of the charge by the 18th diverged as much to the left, as that by the 10th had inclined to the right. Just as the charge commenced, some French Artillery coming from their right and slanting towards the right of the 18th, made a bold push to cross the front of the latter at a gallop. But the attempt failed, and the Hussars were instantly among them, cutting down the Artillerymen and Drivers, and securing the guns. In the next moment they fell upon the Advanced Cavalry, which they completely dispersed; and then, bringing forward their left shoulders, they attacked the Cavalry and guns that stood more to the right front, and near to the Right Square, which was now retiring. This Cavalry appeared, at first, determined upon making a stand; and an Officer in its front dashed forward, and fired at Lieutenant Colonel MURRAY; but, in another moment, the 18th were fiercely and dexterously plying their swords amongst them. They were forced to give way, the Artillerymen were driven from their guns, and the whole fled in disorder.

The charge then ceased to be compact, for the assailants and the flying were intermingled pell mell; all riding as fast as the confusion of the _mêlée_ would permit; a part of them along the high road, but the principal portion on the Allied right of the latter; the whole, however, passing by La Belle Alliance, and leaving the two Squares of the Guard on their right.

VIVIAN, satisfied with the complete success of the charge, ordered the Regiment to halt and reform; whilst he proceeded himself to bring up the 1st Hussars of the Legion, which Corps he had left in reserve.

On his way he found Major the Hon. FREDERICK HOWARD, with the Right Squadron of the 10th Hussars, which, as before stated (see page 552), had been driven to the left by a charge of _Cuirassiers_. This Squadron stood forward within a short distance of the Left Square of the Grenadiers of the Guard, from the fire of which it was losing men fast.

VIVIAN doubted for a moment how far it might be advisable to attack the Square; but perceiving an Infantry Regiment in red advancing on his left, and calculating on its immediately charging the face and angle of the Square next to it, he ordered Major HOWARD to charge the face and angle to which he was opposed. This was executed with the greatest gallantry and determination. VIVIAN himself joined in the charge, on the right of the Squadron. The Hussars charged home to the bayonets of the French Guard, and a fierce conflict ensued. Major HOWARD was killed at the head of his men. He was shot in the mouth, and fell senseless to the ground; when one of the Imperial Guard stepped out of the ranks, and brutally beat his head with the butt end of his musket. Two other Officers, Lieutenants ARNOLD and BACON, were wounded. Lieutenant GUNNING was killed immediately previous to the attack. The Regiment of Infantry, however, did not charge, as VIVIAN had expected; but continued pursuing a separate Column in its own immediate front on the high road.

Although the Square, a very strong one, cannot be said to have been broken by the shock, for the veteran Soldiers of whom it was composed knew too well their power of resistance against such a handful of horsemen; still the manner in which the latter, notwithstanding the rapid diminution of their number, continued cutting at the ranks, parrying bayonet thrusts, and pertinaciously pressing on, reflects the highest credit on the 10th British Hussars. The men fought with desperation; maddened probably by the fall of their Officers.

The Square, yielding to the pressure, continued to fall back until it reached the hollow way formed by the narrow road that leads from the _chaussée_ in rear of La Belle Alliance, towards the Left of the French position. Into this the Guard hastily descended in confusion, and escaping by either outlet, mingled with the host of fugitives hurrying along the general line of retreat of the French Army.

In the mean time, the remainder of the 10th Hussars, consisting of the Left and Centre Squadrons, that had, in the course of the first charge, crossed over to the right of the rise of ground on which the French Reserve Cavalry had been posted, had continued its course, under Lord ROBERT MANNERS, down into the valley, south-east of the Hougomont inclosures. The routed Cavalry spread out in the utmost confusion--_Cuirassiers_, of an almost gigantic size, galloped as hard as they could; and numbers tumbled off their horses to save themselves. The Hussars now came upon retiring Infantry that appeared seized with a panic as their routed Cavalry dashed past them--the large bearskin caps, worn by several of them, betokened a portion of the Imperial Guard--they commenced throwing down their arms, numbers of them loudly calling out "_Pardon!_"

Then crossing the same narrow road, before mentioned as leading from La Belle Alliance to the Left of the French position (but on the Allied right of the hollow way by which the Square of the Guard effected its escape), the Hussars brought up their right shoulders, and ascended the Height in rear of the hollow road. Upon the slope of the Hill, about half a Battalion of the French Guard had rallied and formed, with some Cavalry close behind them, and opened a sharp fire upon the 10th. Part of the 18th Hussars, at this time, reached the hollow way, an obstacle, however, which rendered _their_ attack wholly impracticable. Lord ROBERT MANNERS halted for a minute, when within about forty paces from them, to allow his men to form up. He then gave a cheer and charged; when the Imperial Guard and the Cavalry instantly turned and fled: the greater portion of the former throwing themselves down, and many of the latter tumbling off their horses.

The Hussars pursued up to the brow of the hill: on the further, or south, side of which was a deep hollow; and beyond this a Knoll (on the Allied right of the Charleroi road and nearly opposite DE COSTER's house) upon which another Square of Infantry had formed, and appeared very steady.

At this time a party of the 18th Hussars--not more than from thirty to thirty five men--continuing the charge, before described, close along the right of La Belle Alliance and Trimotion, and crossing the narrow road near its junction with the Charleroi road, dashed down the hollow, and ascending the Height above mentioned, charged the Square in most gallant style; but, as might have been expected, was checked and turned by the latter.

Lord ROBERT MANNERS and Captain TAYLOR had rallied a party of the 10th Hussars, with a view to support the 18th, should these be charged in their turn; which however did not occur.

The two last mentioned Regiments had, by this time, been thrown so much into disorder by their charges, that it became necessary to check their further advance, in order to gain time for collecting and reforming their ranks. Although this measure was supported by the coming up of the 1st Hussars of the Legion to take post in front of the Brigade, and was also rendered secure by the advance, on the right, of VANDELEUR's Brigade (which had come up on VIVIAN's right, and between him and the inclosures of Hougomont, in Column of Squadrons, at the moment he was preparing to charge the Square of the Imperial Guard with the party of the 10th Hussars under Major HOWARD); still the rallying and reforming of those two Regiments was attended with considerable difficulty, inasmuch as they had become completely intermingled with the fugitives.

* * * * *

It is now necessary to recur to ADAM's Brigade, which we left advancing, and driving before it, near the Charleroi road, the three Squares of the Guard that had retired as it approached to charge them. It will be recollected that, upon the Brigade first advancing from the Allied position, Lieutenant Colonel HALKETT followed it in immediate rear of its Right Flank, with the Osnabrück Battalion of Hanoverian Landwehr. When ADAM reached the three Squares above mentioned, HALKETT, having the shortest space of ground to move over, soon came up in Line with the Brigade, still pursuing the Column formed by the two Battalions of _Chasseurs_ of the Old Guard. The Osnabrückers having then become much annoyed by a fire that opened upon them obliquely from a French Battery within a very short distance of their right, their 1st Company broke into subdivisions and, supported by the Sharpshooters of the Battalion, made a dash at the Artillery, and captured six guns. During the greater part of the advance, they had been in almost close contact with the Column formed by the two Battalions of _Chasseurs_ of the Old Guard; and HALKETT frequently called out to them to surrender.

Having for some short time fixed his eye upon an individual whom he took to be the General Officer in command of the Guard, from his being in full uniform, and from the animation he displayed in his endeavours to induce his men to stand their ground; and observing that the Column, after receiving the fire of the Osnabrückers, left the General with two Officers in its rear, he ordered the Sharpshooters to dash on, whilst he, at the same time darted forward at full gallop to attack the General. When he had come up with him, and was about to cut him down; the latter called out that he would surrender.

CAMBRONNE, for he it was, then preceded HALKETT as he returned to the Hanoverian Battalion; but had not gone many paces before HALKETT's horse was wounded, and fell to the ground. In a few seconds, however, HALKETT succeeded in getting him on his legs again, when he found that his prisoner was escaping in the direction of the French Column: he instantly overtook him, seized him by the _aiguilette_, brought him to the Battalion, and gave him in charge to a Serjeant of the Osnabrückers who was to deliver him to the Duke.

ADAM's Brigade had by this time crossed to the opposite side of the Charleroi road, and, bringing forward its left shoulders, was continuing its advance, in pursuit of the defeated Squares, in a direction parallel with that road; whilst HALKETT, by continuing on the inner flank, and following the Battalions of the _Chasseurs_ of the Old Guard, had got somewhat in advance, or rather, in right front of that Brigade; and had, shortly before, reached the immediate vicinity of that part of the Field on which VIVIAN was in the act of preparing to charge the Square of the Grenadiers of the Old Guard with the Squadron of the 10th Hussars under Major HOWARD. The Osnabrückers will here be recognised as the Regiment of Allied Infantry already alluded to in the description given of that Charge.

ADAM, after his repulse of the three Squares of the Imperial Guard, perceiving that he was so much in front of the main Line of the Anglo-Allied Army, and not being aware of VIVIAN's advance, had become apprehensive of an attack upon his Right Flank; and he therefore desired his Brigade Major, Major BLAIR, to proceed in the prolongation of his Right Flank, and observe whether there was any threatening appearance of the Enemy's Cavalry in that quarter. The latter, pursuing his errand, met the Duke of WELLINGTON moving at a quick pace, followed by a single individual, to whom Major BLAIR addressed himself, but who immediately checked him by remarking, "_Monsieur, je ne parle pas un seul mot d'Anglais!_" Major BLAIR then explained to him, in French, the Order he had received, to which he replied, "_Le Duc lui même a été voir; il n'y a rien à craindre_;" whereupon the former returned to ADAM, with this satisfactory information.

Here, then, was the great Chieftain himself, still in the Battle's front, vigilantly watching, and eagerly seizing advantage of, the course of events; braving every peril, and acting solely upon his own personal observation; his Staff, and even Orderlies, almost all killed or wounded; the very few that remained untouched, carrying messages; his only attendant, a foreigner (Major Count DE SALES, a Sardinian Officer), attached to his suite!

It is impossible not to recognise in the extraordinary degree of security with which this great man so fearlessly exposed himself throughout the entire day, the protecting interposition of an all wise and merciful Providence. At this moment, too, he was not only upon the track of his great antagonist; but, in all probability, within the shortest distance that ever separated these wonderful men from each other: the one, alone, and in front of his advancing Line, borne forward on the wings of victory, and upheld by the knowledge of his might and the fulness of his glory; the other, seeking shelter amidst his devoted, yet broken and dispirited, cohorts; abandoning himself to despair, and flying from the fatal Field on which the sceptre he had usurped was signally and irrecoverably struck from his iron grasp.