They were sent helter skelter over the ice to rejoin their comrades; and after a pause of some hours an officer was seen advancing from the French lines bearing a flag.
He was blindfolded, that he might not see the weak parts of the fort, and was brought to Major Byre and the other officers.

His message was to advise them to surrender the fort and obtain for themselves favourable terms, threatening a massacre if this was refused.
"I shall defend myself to the last!" said Major Byre calmly.
"Englishmen do not give up their forts at the bidding of the foe.
We can at least die like men, if we cannot defend ourselves, and that has yet to be proved." The news of this demand and the reply flew like wildfire through the ranks, and inspired the men with courage and ardour.

The Rangers were brought within the fort, and all was made ready for the assault.
A storm of shot hailed upon the fort.

Through the gathering darkness of the night they could only distinguish the foe by the red glare from their guns.

The English fort was dark and silent.