William Mosier had the instinct of a true soldier with a soldier's daring and a brave man's courage; his quick mind saw this difference and he promptly made use of the only possible means to save his command from a catastrophe. While the use of a compact formation of infantry with bayonets, in a defense against an attack by cavalry, became common in later wars, it was new then. At a time when the whole world was at war and studying methods of warfare and both the infantry and cavalry arms had strong partizans defending their respective merits, the news of this skirmish was received with astonishment in Europe. Washington often referred to it and expressed his admiration for the skill and courage of the American officer who commanded here. In a strictly technical, military sense, this skirmish was the most important fight of the whole war. It also illustrated an American trait--a quick perception of a difficulty and a prompt and practical remedy--and both were put to good use in a just cause on the hill opposite.