two in the morning
But when they started , they were assailed from above with such a torrent of rocks that they again retired to the caves . They then made an attempt to get to the top of the mountain , but their way was barred by a precipice ; and they once more went back to the cave , where they remained all the next day . It was then decided to make an attempt to cut their way out . They started at two in the morning . The enemy at once opened fire , and many were killed , among them Captain Ross himself . Lieutenant Jones with seventeen men reached the little maidan , and there remained for some minutes , keeping up a heavy fire on the enemy on both banks of the river , in order to help more men to get through . Twice the enemy attempted to charge , but each time retired with heavy loss .