about four o'clock in the afternoon
They knew from this that the opposing forces were making ready for the conflict , and the suspense became painful indeed . Then amid the rattle of musketry sounded the whoops of the Iroquois . The battle was on . Fighting began about four o'clock in the afternoon . Colonel Zebulon Butler ordered his men to fire , and at each discharge to advance a step . The fire was regular and steady , and the Americans continued to gain ground , having the advantage where it was open . Despite the exertions of the invaders , their line gave way , and but for the help of the Indians they would have been routed .