Defeat seemed the approaching fate of the patriots. It came nearer
when the regiment of negroes which had for some time withstood the Burgos
regiment--the flower of Osorio's force--gave way and retreated, leaving four
hundred of its number stretched upon the field.
The critical moment of the battle was now at hand. The Burgos regiment
attempted to follow up its success by forming itself into a square for a
decisive charge. In doing so the Spanish lines were broken and thrown into
temporary disorder. Colonel O'Brien, a gallant cavalry officer of Irish
blood, took quick advantage of this. Joining his troops with Quintana's
reserves, he broke in a fierce charge upon the Burgos regiment while in
the act of reforming and drove it back in complete confusion.
This defeat of the choice corps of Osorio's army changed the whole aspect
of affairs. The patriots, inspired with hope, boldly advanced and pressed
their foes at all points. The Burgos troops sought refuge in the
farm-house, and were followed by the left, which was similarly broken and
dispersed.
Pages:
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320