Page:The invasion of the Crimea Vol 6.djvu/442

398 THE BATTLE OF INKERMAN. CHAP. VI. 5th Period. Advance of a Russian coluiiiii on Bosquot's loft. Peril and escape of Bosquet. DivergRnt retreat of the Frenth. now closely beset them on their left flank ; for the lakoutsk battalion by this time had made good its way up across the right bank of the Quarry Ravine, and was already on the topland above. The movement, however, it seems, was not one originating in any special design against Bosquet's troops on the Tusk ; and from the sloth of the column when this gift of Fortune was offered, one may infer that its commander was as thoroughly taken by surprise as the French general. He apparently could scarce understand that it had suddenly became possible for him to make Bosquet's people his prisoners, or to roll them up fighting with their backs to a frightful precipice ; and whilst happily he stood losing time, the more lively intelligence of the French made them swift to acknowledge their peril, and seize the best means for eluding it. Opportunely, and with brilliant despatch, the Zouave troops made a spring which checked their Selinghinsk assailants, nay, caused them indeed to stop dead, and then by a timely rush to their left flank and rear, the nimble and quick-witted soldiery who had been brought into this ugly predicament found means to get clear of the Tusk without having to fight for their lives. Though the two battalions with Bourbaki had not become linked to the force which Bosquet led on to the Tusk, they still, it seems, reeled under the shock which their comrades received. They fell back, and continued to retreat till they found themselves behind the Home Itidge, and on the