T11F BACK-WOODSMEN.



Indians their long-awaited opportunity of executing
their cherished revenge, the town was full of swarthy
warriors. But, trusting in Waldron's assurances, the
inhabitants had not taken the least precaution. The
Indians had brought with them a number of squaws,
who sought and obtained shelter in the fortified
houses. Before lying down to rest, the women asked
the men in the houses to show them how to unbar
the doors, in case they should need to go out. This
was done without hesitation.
  Mr. Waldron, who occupied one of the fortified
buildings, was applied to by two squaws and an old
chief for shelter. He readily granted their request,
and, mindful of the obligations of hospitality, also in-
vited them to take supper with him. They were only
too glad to comply. At table one of the squaws
said that a band of strange Indians would come to the
village the next day to trade with him. The old In-
dian then said: " Brother Waldron, what would you
do if the Indians should come " I 'Oh! " replied he,
in an indifferent manner, but with a steadfast look,
"1 I shall be glad to see them. But tell them they must
behave themselves, for I can raise a hundred armed
men by lifting my finger."
  About midnight the squaws in the garrison arose,
unbarred the doors, and gave the signal for attack.
Immediately great numbers of Indians rushed into the
buildings, and commenced to kill the unsuspecting
whites. Very few escaped. The Indians plundered
and burned nearly every dwelling in the village. Al-



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