The rapidity of
events had prevented the Hurons from acting; but this catastrophe
permitted no farther delay. A common exclamation followed, and
the whole party was in motion. At this instant a sound unusual to
the woods was heard, and every Huron, male and female, paused to
listen, with ears erect and faces filled with expectation. The sound
was regular and heavy, as if the earth were struck with beetles.
Objects became visible among the trees of the background, and a
body of troops was seen advancing with measured tread. They came
upon the charge, the scarlet of the King's livery shining among
the bright green foliage of the forest.
The scene that followed is not easily described. It was one in which
wild confusion, despair, and frenzied efforts, were so blended as
to destroy the unity and distinctness of the action. A general
yell burst from the enclosed Hurons; it was succeeded by the hearty
cheers of England. Still not a musket or rifle was fired, though
that steady, measured tramp continued, and the bayonet was seen
gleaming in advance of a line that counted nearly sixty men. The
Hurons were taken at a fearful disadvantage. On three sides was
the water, while their formidable and trained foes cut them off
from flight on the fourth.
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