No foe was visible.

Nearly a thousand warriors, some armed with arrows, but many with rifles, were hidden, but a few rods before them, beneath the curving bank, which was fringed with bushes.

Major Russel, with a small party, was sent cautiously forward to feel for the enemy, and to bring on the battle.

He was moving directly into the curve, where a concentric fire would soon cut down every one of his men.
The Indians in the fort perceived his danger, and shouted warning to him.

He did not understand their language.