Page "Battle of Balaclava" Paragraph 50

Nolan ’ s gesture was imprecise, and pointed not to the redoubts and the captured British guns but, it seemed – at least to Lucan and his staff officers present – to the Russian battery guarding Ryzhov's cavalry at the end of the valley.

Lucan should have questioned Nolan at greater length to eliminate any ambiguity and, perhaps, deduce that ' the front ' meant the Causeway Heights.

Seeing Lucan's confusion Nolan should have explained what Raglan intended, perhaps making the link – if he himself knew of the connection – between the third and fourth order.

Taken aback by Nolan's insolence Lucan refused further discussion, and rode over to Cardigan standing in front of his brigade.

Both cavalry commanders knew the dangers of attacking down the valley.

When Cardigan learnt of what was expected of his brigade, he questioned the sanity of the order as conveyed to him by Lucan, "… allow me to point out to you that there is a battery in front, battery on each flank, and the ground is covered with Russian riflemen.

" " I know it.

" Said Lucan.

" But Lord Raglan will have it.

We have no choice but to obey.