From the ridge beyond Stone House, 15,000 Federals were swiftly advancing in this direction. Confederate Capt. John Imboden rushed four cannon into position here to try to slow the Federal attack. Behind this slight rise the artillerists had some protection from enemy bombardment. Through the smoke and dust, Imboden's men could see outnumbered Confederate infantry starting to fall back from Matthews Hill. The cannoneers kept firing at top speed, knowing it would take massive reinforcements to stop the Yankees. Retreating Confederates fled past Robinson House, where Wade Hampton's South Carolinians made a desperate stand.