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(July 9, 1755). On May 10, 1755, General Braddock took command of 2200 men at Fort Cumberland to advance upon Fort Duquesne. The army moved slowly, clearing a way, and on July 7 was about eight miles from the fort. The fort was strongly situated and well garrisoned ; but the commandant determined to strike a blow on the advancing English. On the morning of the ninth an ambuscading party of 900 left the fort. The British had passed the ford of the Monongahela, and were advancing through thick woods when they were assailed from all sides. They stood bravely, but could see no foe. Being huddled together they were fairly mowed down. Their courage at length forsook them-they broke and fled. The mortality was terrible. Of eighty-six officers sixty-three were killed and disabled. Of 1373 troops only 459 came off unharmed. The French loss was trifling. Colonel Washington distinguished himself by his bravery. Braddock was mortally wounded. Dunbar, next in command, insisted on retreat, and left the frontier unguarded.