Alexander : a history of the origin and growth of the art of war from ...

602 A RECKLESS MANCEUVRE.On perceiving their determination, Alexander, with hiscustomary reckless daring, headed some squadrons of his cavaliy,plunged gallantly into the current, forded the stream,and fell upon the enemy, white weapon in hand. The Indians,astonished at such a bold act by a mere handful of men, didnot even wait for the foremost horsemen, of whom Alexanderwas always first, to reach the bank, but at once abandoned"The City of the MaUi."their position, and retired into the interior. Alexander followedupon their heels with his cavalry alone.given chase some distance from the river, theWhen he hadIndians, recognizingthe small number of their pursuers, — there were butfour or five thousand Macedonian horse tofifty thousand Indians,— turned and advanced upon them in closeorder, presentinga very brave front.but the king was used to such.Here was a dangerous situation,The salvation of the Macedonianslay in their compact formation, their rapid manoeuvringand in their being on a largeplain where there was plenty ofelbow-room. Instead of attempting to fight the Indians inline, Alexander quickly wheeled into column, and led his menround and round their army, coming to a front, and chargingin upon their line in flank or rear wherever a chance afforded.The Macedonians could always retire in good order, reformand return to the charge. The Indians were not so active.