But it was with no confidence that Fritz set forth upon his errand.
Not long ago General Webb had visited the fort, and had given certain orders and had spoken brave words about coming to command in person should need arise; but he had returned to Fort Edward the following day, and had then sent the reinforcements which were all he was able to spare.

It remained to be seen whether he would fulfil his promise when he knew that the attack of the enemy might be expected every hour.
Fritz rode in hot haste to the fort and asked for the General.

He brought news of urgency, he told them, and was instantly shown to the General's quarters.

He stood in silence whilst the letter which Fritz brought was opened and read; then he abruptly asked the tall young Ranger what it was he had seen.
Fritz told his tale in simple, graphic words, the General marching up and down the room meantime, evidently in some perturbation of spirit; but all he said at the close was: "Go back and tell Colonel Monro that I have no troops here which I can safely withdraw, but that I have sent, and will send, expresses to the provinces for help." Fritz was too much the soldier to make reply.

He bowed and retired, well knowing that no express sent to New England could be of the smallest service now.