Instantly an Indian runner was dispatched to inform General Jackson, at Fort Strother, of their danger and to entreat him to come to their aid.

Hence the sudden movement.
The Creek warriors had their scouts out, carefully watching, and were speedily apprised of the approach of General Jackson's band.
Immediately they sent word into the fort, to the friendly Indians there, that the American soldiers were coming, with many fine horses, and richly stored with guns, blankets, powder, bullets, and almost everything else desirable.

They promised that if the Indians would come out from the fort, and help them attack and conquer the whites, they would divide the rich plunder with them.

They assured them that, by thus uniting, they could easily gain the victory over the whites, who were the deadly foes of their whole race.

The appeal was not responded to.
A little south of the fort there was a stream, which, in its circuitous course, partially encircled it.