(He distinctly saw an old French officer who, with gaitered legs and turned-out toes, climbed the hill with difficulty.

) Prince Bagration gave no further orders and silently continued to walk on in front of the ranks.

Suddenly one shot after another rang out from the French, smoke appeared all along their uneven ranks, and musket shots sounded.

Several of our men fell, among them the round-faced officer who had marched so gaily and complacently.