At another time the colony was threatened with a still more dangerous storm, but which was averted by the valour of the Yaaukanigas. More than three hundred Mocobios and Tobas approached the town by a silent and hasty journey. One of their number deserted,—got the start of his companions, and informed Oaherkaikin's Abipones, our neighbours and friends, of the impending attack; by which means we received timely intelligence of our danger. Father Klein, seeing that we were inferior to the enemy in point of number, with his usual intrepidity crossed the Parana in a boat, though a violent south wind had rendered it exceedingly rough, to seek supplies from the Vice-Governor of Corrientes. Meantime our Yaaukanigas, who were constantly exhorted by me to a strenuous defence of the colony, indulged in drinking, as usual with them when they anticipate an encounter with the enemy. For my part I neglected nothing which could contribute to the defence of the colony, exerting the utmost vigilance, and sending scouts and guards in every direction. At two o'clock on Quinquagesima Sunday, a Yaaukaniga spied one of the enemies in a neighbouring field, from which we readily concluded that a company was there also. The Yaaukanigas, though hardly able to stand on their feet from intoxication, immediately mounted their horses which the women made ready, and rushed in a disorderly manner upon the Mocobios and Tobas, who were lying hid at the border of the wood. Uncertain of the event, and anxious for the safety of the town, I remained in arms ready to bring my assistance wherever it might be required. Gracious Providence ordered things according to our wish; for the enemies, surrounded, and alarmed at our sudden attack, chose to decline battle, and trust to flight. In the closeness of pursuit, the Mocobios were divided. Part flying towards the south slew two Abiponian women who were gathering alfarobas, and carried into captivity one infant which they took from its mother's breast. The other part hastened towards the north, pursued by our townsmen till late at night. One only of the Yaaukanigas received a slight wound at the beginning of the conflict: how many of the enemy were slain and wounded is uncertain.