The enemy had dislodged the green Germans from the orchard of La Haye-Sainte, and were desperately disputing the buildings, a most serious impediment to the French, whose attacking columns were advancing towards the hedge. The French artillery now suspended their fire, for fear of destroying friends as well as foes: whilst our few but well-served batteries were carrying destruction through the enemy’s columns, who, regardless of the iron hail, gallantly pressed on until within forty yards of the hedge, when the undaunted Picton ordered Kempt’s brigade to deploy into line. This brigade moved up to the hedge, fired a volley into the enemy while deploying, which dreadfully shattered their ranks and stemmed their further progress; then with a loud Hurrah! rushed through the hedge and received a murderous volley in return. This caused some disorder and delay, particularly among the 79th regiment: but the delay was momentary; our soldiers quickly rallied, and levelling their bayonets, presented a line of British infantry at the charge. Picton’s gallant example at Quatre-Bras had so inspired his troops, that nothing could now resist the impetuosity of their attack. By the terrific fire of our infantry, a timely check was given to the burning ardour of the assailing columns, which were soon turned into a shapeless mass of men, destitute of order, although still endeavouring to hold their ground; pouring out a straggling fire, yet unable to withstand the storm about to burst upon their devoted heads. During this time a portion of the first light battalion of the German legion crossed the high-road to support our advancing brigade. The French left attacking column became panic-stricken, and, in utter confusion, fled precipitately down the slope. As the British pressed forward, their front was crossed by a body of cuirassiers hotly pursued by the 2d life-guards. The cuirassiers dashed in amongst their own broken infantry, who flung themselves on the ground to allow both cavalries to ride over them, they then rose up and fired after the life-guards. The cuirassiers coming nearer to their own position pulled up their steeds, and boldly faced their pursuers, but in vain; after many an isolated and individual combat, they were obliged again to turn and fly. It was here that Shaw, the famous life-guardsman, fell in the _mêlée_, mortally wounded by a carbine-ball, after having, it is said, killed nine of his steel-clad opponents.