of rock, so that I found it difficult to estimate their number.
Only occasionally would a venturesome warrior appear for a moment in
the open, as he glided stealthily from the protection of one covert to
another. No doubt some were brought within range of our rifles, as
these efforts were usually made to more advanced positions, but I
forbade firing, in the vague hope that, not hearing from Kirby, the
chiefs might become discouraged and draw off without risking an open
attack.

This was more a desperate hope, rather than any real faith I possessed.
Beyond doubt the Indian chief knew, or thought he knew, our exact
strength before he consented to use his warriors in this assault. If
the band had trailed us to this spot, it had been done through the
influence of Kirby, and he had, beyond question, informed them as to
whom we were, and the conditions under which we had fled from Yellow
Banks. The only addition to our party since then was the rescued boy.
They would have little fear of serious loss in an attack upon two men,
and two women, unarmed, except possibly with a pistol or two, even
though barricaded behind the log walls of a cabin. And, with one of
their number within, any attempt at defense would be but a farce. This
same gang had already sacked the cabin, taking with them, as they
believed, every weapon it contained. In their haste they had
overlooked the cellar below. They had no thought of its existence, nor
that we awaited them rifles in hand and with an amply supply of powder
and lead. Whatever might be the final result, a surprise of no
pleasant nature was awaiting their advance.

Convinced, as I had become, that Black Hawk was actually with the
party, although I was unable to obtain any glimpse of him, I felt there
was small chance of his departure, without making at least one effort
to capture the cabin. That was his nature, his reputation--that of a
bulldog to hang on, a tiger to strike. More even, this band of raiders
must be far south of the main body of the Hawk's followers, and hence
in danger themselves. They would never remain here long, facing the
possibility of discovery, of having their retreat cut off. If they
attacked, the attempt would not be long delayed.

Still there was nothing left to do but wait. We were already as
completely prepared as possible with our resources. The main assault
would undoubtedly be delivered from the front, directed against the
door, the only point w