They poured in their
volleys and waited. But Reno made no move. Weir and Brant, determined
to hold every inch thus gained, threw the dismounted men on their faces
behind every projection of earth, and encircled the ridge with flame.
If they could not advance, they would not be driven back. They were
high up now, where they could overlook the numerous ridges and valleys
far around; and yonder, perhaps two miles away, they could perceive
vast bodies of mounted Indians, while the distant sound of heavy firing
was borne faintly to their ears. It was vengeful savages shooting into
the bodies of the dead, but that they did not know. Messenger after
messenger, taking life in hand, was sent skurrying down the bluff, to
beg reinforcements to push on for the rescue, swearing it was possible.
But it was after five o'clock before Reno moved. Then cautiously he
advanced his column toward where N and D Troops yet held desperately to
the exposed ridge. He came too late. That distant firing had ceased,
and all need for further advance had ended. Already vast forces of
Indians, flushed with victory and waving bloody scalps, were sweeping
back across the ridges to attack in force.
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