ABSTRACT
THE night having passed with great fears and hopes, each party thinking that they had justice on their ide, the captains ordered the ensigns to muster their ompanies, and to give the signal by beat of drum that the oldiers, on hearing it, might know that the time for giving battle was so near that it only needed one side to strike he first blow. So the men of Chile went forth full of irdour, and raising their shouts to heaven, advanced with heir hearts animated against their foes, and with minds onging to satisfy their hatred of their enemies. Their artillery, consisting of sixteen pieces, was placed in a rood position, so that, from whatever point the enemy night try to assail it, it would overcome all attacks. The avalry was formed into two squadrons, one under Don Diego himself and Juan Balsa, the other led by the capains Saucedo and Diego Méndez. One of these squadrons vas larger than the other, and its flanks were held by Diego de Hoces and the same Diego Méndez. The inantry, stationed in rear of the artillery, was under Martín le Bilbao; and Martín Cote, a most valiant captain, led the arquebusiers, having detailed those necessary for the front of the squadron and either flank. The standard was planted 276near the squadron led by Don Diego, and Pedro de Candía was with the artillery, ready to fire whenever the order should be given. The Sergeant-Major, Pedro Suárez, went about from one part to another, giving necessary orders. He was relied upon for his knowledge of war, having served in several countries, and being well versed in the art. In the forefront of the squadron there were men at arms posted, and the whole force numbered 550 Spaniards, a very brilliant array, for in truth there were cavaliers of good family, as we have pointed out in several places. 1
