Early next morning the "Rescue" steamed up to the Queen's Wharf and took on board her armament and ammunition.

A large 32-pound gun was mounted on the main deck, in a position available for service in any direction required, while the projectiles were placed in pyramidal piles near-by, so as to be convenient for quick action.
On the afternoon of the 5th of June, while proceeding up Lake Erie, a suspicious-looking steamer was seen approaching from the west.

Heavy clouds of black smoke belched forth from her funnels, and she appeared to be heading for the "Rescue" under full speed.

As rumors of a Fenian flotilla on the Upper Lakes had prevailed, it was conjectured that this strange craft might be one of the enemy's gunboats, and consequently its appearance caused some excitement on board the "Rescue." The men were called to quarters, the 32-pounder loaded and charged with chain-shot, and every preparation made to give battle in case the approaching steamer should happen to be a foe.

As it came nearer it was seen that she was a side-wheeler, and was evidently crowding on all steam.