Wallenstein's right and centre had driven
Count Bernhard, the Duke of Brahe, and Kniphausen across that
desperately contested road, but beyond this they could not force
them, so stubbornly and desperately did they fight. But Stalhaus
and his men, refreshed and invigorated by their victory over
Pappenheim's force, again came up and took their part in the fight.
Wallenstein had no longer a hope of victory, he fought now only to
avoid defeat. The sun had already set, and if he could but maintain
his position for another half hour darkness would save his army.
He fell back across the road again, fighting stubbornly and in good
order, and extending his line to the left to prevent Stalhaus from
turning his flank; and in this order the terrible struggle continued
till nightfall. Both sides fought with splendid bravery. The
Swedes, eager for the victory once again apparently within their
grasp, pressed on with fury, while the Imperialists opposed them
with the most stubborn obstinacy.
Seven times did Piccolomini charge with his cavalry upon the advancing
Swedes. Seven times was his horse shot under him, but remounting
each time, he drew off his men in good order, and in readiness to
dash forward again at the first opportunity. The other Imperialist
generals fought with equal courage and coolness, while Wallenstein,
present wherever the danger was thickest, animated all by his
courage and coolness.
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