It was with a bitter sense of failure that he took the fresh horse provided for him and made all speed back to the camp.
The road was still clear, but how long it would remain so there was no knowing.

Swarms of Indians were drawing around them.

If succour did not come quickly, it would arrive too late.
Monro received the message in silence, and continued to strengthen his own defences as best he might.

The next day brought the enemy full in view, and the numbers of the hostile host astonished though they did not dismay the brave little garrison.
Once more Monro sent forth Fritz with a letter to the General.
"The French are upon us," he wrote, "both by land and water.

They are well supplied with artillery, which will make sad havoc of our defences, for these, you have seen for yourself, are none of the strongest.