But, riding into the open field, the guard were formed into line at the base of the hill, near the small stream which is the head of Wilson's creek. On the right of the guard, and about one hundred yards distant, just at the edge of a large corn-field, were stationed four hundred of the rebel cavalry. At the brow of the hill, directly in front, and near the edge of the wood, was the line of rebel infantry, numbering eighteen hundred, all their available force having been brought to that point. The eyes of Zagonyi glanced rapidly over this scene. Some thirty of his bold guard had already been stricken down, either killed or wounded. It was enough to appal the stoutest heart. But the major did not flinch--his followers were firm and confident. "We can spare thirty men to charge their cavalry," said Zagonyi; "lieutenant, will you lead them?" The officer addressed replied. "Give me the men--_thirty is sufficient_!" The men were soon detailed, merely changing front by breaking from the right of the line. "Forward--trot--_gallop_!" The lieutenant had placed himself at the head of his little band, and with drawn sabres, and a wild shout, they rushed upon the foe. The rebel ranks were broken in an instant; the blows from the terrible weapons of the guard fell not in vain. "No further help will be required in that quarter," shouted Zagonyi. "Now comes _our_ work. Draw sabres--forward--gallop--_charge_!" A shout rang out upon the air: "_For Fremont and the Union!_" And on they went thundering up the hill. As they approached within a few yards of the rebel line, a terrible fire was poured upon them, but they faltered not. Some of the horses leaped wildly into the air, and then fell to earth dead, but their riders pressed forward. The rebel ranks could not resist the thunder of this charge. In less than five minutes their lines were completely broken, and the terrified rebels were flying in every direction. Some took refuge in the woods, and fired from behind the trees, while now and then a squad would for a moment make a stand, but it would be quickly dispersed. In half an hour, all firing upon the battle-field had ceased. The rebels were entirely scattered, and were flying for their lives. Some had taken refuge in the city, and concealed themselves in the surrounding buildings. Now commenced the charge through Springfield. Up and down the streets rode the guard, charging upon all squads of armed rebels, or pursuing them to the threshold of their own doors. Terror seized upon them all, and soon the Body-guard were masters, not only of the field, but of the city itself. Then commenced the task of gathering together the Union dead and wounded. Seventeen bodies were found lifeless, and removed to the lower room of the new court-house, then used as the Union hospital, while some fifty were found seriously or slightly wounded, or announced as missing. Thus ended one of the most brilliant charges history has ever recorded. CHAPTER XIV.