They had to contend not only with the wild forces of nature, and to defend themselves from the beasts of the forest,--more to be feared than either were the hostile Indians.

The settlers were filled with terror of these stealthy foes.

At home and abroad they kept their guns ready for instant use both night and day.

Many a hard battle was fought between the Indian and the pioneer.

Many an unguarded woodsman was shot down without warning while busy about his necessary work.