On the night of March 6th the two British light infantry battalions tried to surprise the American cavalry near Ferguson’s Plantation, by crossing the Wappoo River and marching throughout the night. Unfortunately for the British an officer’s servant had deserted and warned the American cavalry.

When the British arrived they found that the Americans had fled. The Light Infantry was worn out from the fourteen-mile march over clay paths, and on the return eight of the men had to be left behind, too fatigued to make it back.

Major Hezekiah Maham, of the SC Light Dragoons, sent word to the Continental Light Dragoons, that the British were on the mainland. Maj. Maham's men had spent an enjoyable time at their plantation by playing cards, hunting and dancing at night with the local beauties, but within the hour they headed towards the retreating British. Maj. Maham's men captured seven of the eight stragglers. The eighth man had overcome his exertion, and rejoined his unit.