The sentinel was killed before he could sound the alarm, and the first notice was given by the fire and the yell of the enemy.

The Indians rushed into the camp, and, killing the few men they fell in with, seized the artillery.

Fortunately some time was wasted in the attempt to turn the pieces on the Americans.

Captain Parker, who commanded the light company, had been employed on a very fatiguing tour of duty near Savannah, and had returned that evening to camp.

To allow his harassed soldiers some repose, he was placed in the rear near the artillery, and was asleep when the Indians entered the camp.