“My orders are to avoid a conflict with the savages, if possible. However, I’ll determine what their intentions are as soon as I can—and act promptly as soon as I have positive information. I can’t imagine what has become of the friendly chiefs I sent out from Fort Harrison. They should have met us miles back. I hope they are in the village and will come out to us this evening. We’ll fortify ourselves as we did last night—and await the issue.” “But, governor,” urged Major Daviess, “the Indians mean to give us battle—their actions indicate the fact. They are attempting to draw us into a trap. Our men are in high spirits and anxious to attack. We should take advantage of their ardor and——” “And fall headlong into the trap of which you speak,” Harrison interrupted. “No, it won’t do to advance until we know more of the ground between here and the town. Already we are badly situated—these woods and ravines are favorable to the Indians. A small body of the enemy could harass us terribly. If I knew what lies between here and the village, I would consent to a cautious advance—but not otherwise.” “The rough ground soon ends,” Major Daviess answered. “The town lies upon the low bottoms of the Wabash and is surrounded by level, cultivated fields.” “How do you know this, major?” the governor inquired. “Adjutant Floyd and myself advanced to the precipitous bank that descends to the valley, and had a fair view of the place.” “Then,” said the commander, reluctantly, “I’ll advance slowly and in order of battle, provided I can get some one to enter the town ahead of the army with a flag of truce.” Captain Dubois of Vincennes stepped forward and volunteered his services. Harrison turned to Douglas, who was standing near, and said: “Douglas, will you and the Wyandot accompany Captain Dubois, as interpreters?” “Of course, governor,” Ross replied cheerfully. “Be off, then—and note carefully all you see and hear. Captain, obtain a positive answer from the Prophet, whether he will comply with the terms I have so often proposed. Have a care that you don’t get cut off from the army.” Taking with him several soldiers and the two interpreters, Captain Dubois set out for the town. The army moved slowly after, in order of battle. When the captain and his comrades were within a mile of the town, they encountered a large body of Indians. The interpreters tried to open communication with them, but the treacherous savages gave no heed to repeated hails. All the while they circled around the little band of whites, attempting to separate them from their friends in the rear. “It’s useless and dangerous to proceed further,” the captain exclaimed angrily. “Brown,” addressing a soldier, “go back to the governor and inform him of our want of success, and of the perilous position we occupy.” On receiving the word from his peace messenger, Harrison set his teeth and said firmly: