Here the Fenians began work on the construction of a line of breastworks and entrenchments, which kept them busily employed all afternoon.
A detachment of the 7th Buffalo Regiment, under command of Capt.
Donohue, made a reconnaissance in the direction of Chippawa during the afternoon, and after discovering a party of mounted farmers, who they mistook for Canadian cavalry, fired a volley at them without effect and then retreated valiantly back to the Fenian camp, bombastically boasting that they had routed a strong force of British troops.
Other details had been busy seizing horses and food supplies, and mounted scouts galloped for miles in all directions, scouring the country seeking information as to the whereabouts of the Canadian forces, and at the same time distributing copies of the following proclamation:-- "To the People of British America: "We come among you as the foes of British rule in Ireland, We have taken up the sword to strike down the oppressors' rod, to deliver Ireland from the tyrant, the despoiler, the robber.

We have registered our oaths upon the altar of our country in the full view of heaven and sent up our vows to the throne of Him who inspired them.

Then, looking about us for an enemy, we find him here, here in your midst, where he is most vulnerable and convenient to our strength...

We have no issue with the people of these Provinces, and wish to have none but the most friendly relations.
Our weapons are for the oppressors of Ireland.

Our bows shall be directed only against the power of England; her privileges alone shall we invade, not yours.