(joined by a second squadron from the rear), advanced immediately upon
the Spanish cavalry. Falkland was by the side of Riego. As the troop
advanced, it would have been curious to notice the contrast of expression
in the face of each; the Spaniard's features lighted up with the daring
enthusiasm of his nature; every trace of their usual languor and
exhaustion vanished beneath the unconquerable soul that blazed out the
brighter for the debility of the frame; the brow knit; the eye flashing;
the lip quivering:--and close beside, the calm, stern; passionless repose
that brooded over the severe yet noble beauty of Falkland's countenance.
To him danger brought scorn, not enthusiasm: he rather despised than
defied it. "The dastards! they waver," said Riego, in an accent of
despair, as his troop faltered beneath the charge of the French: and so
saying, he spurred his steed on to the foremost line. The contest was
longer, but not less decisive, than the one just concluded. The
Spaniards, thrown into confusion by the first shock, never recovered
themselves. Falkland, who, in his anxiety to rally and inspirit the
soldiers, had advanced with two other officers beyond the ranks, was soon
surrounded by a detachment of dragoons: the wound in his left arm
scarcely suffered him to guide his horse: he was in the most imminent
danger. At that moment D'Aguilar, at the head of his own immediate
followers, cut his way into the circle, and covered Falkland's retreat;
another detachment of the enemy came up, and they were a second time
surrounded. In the mean while, the main body of the Spanish cavalry were
flying in all directions, and Riego's deep voice was heard at intervals,
through the columns of smoke and dust, calling and exhorting them in
vain. D'Aguilar and his scanty troop, after a desperate skirmish, broke
again through the enemy's line drawn up against their retreat. The rank
closed after them like waters when the object that pierced them has sunk:
Falkland and his two companions were again environed: he saw his comrades
cut to the earth before him. He pulled up his horse for one moment,