This was in the early spring, and a few days later a scout came in with the information that the Indians were once more gathering for an attack on the fort.
At once messengers were sent in all directions, and the settlers were told to hasten into Boonesborough without delay. Some few remained at their homes, but the Parsons and the Winships decided to seek the protection of the fort.
The attack came on the 15th of April, 1777. The Indians were about a hundred strong, and the garrison at that time numbered less than fifty,—some writers state less than forty,—for many of the settlers were away on a hunting tour.
The first assault of the red men was a fierce one. A shower of arrows were sent against and over the stockade that did no damage, and then the warriors came forward, uttering their shrill war-whoops, and flourishing their tomahawks and hunting knives.
“Here they come!” cried half a dozen of the settlers who were at the loopholes.
“Stand firm!” was the command. “Don’t fire until you are sure of your man!”
On came the red men, shouting and dancing, and another flight of arrows came over the stockade. Then the pioneers opened fire, and down went three Indians, two killed instantly.
After that the smoke and din of battle were terrific. The Indians ran from one end of the stockade to the other, trying to climb the barrier or break it down. A log was brought and used as a battering-ram against the heavy gates. But they were securely barred on the inside, and before those at the log could use the ram more than once two of them were laid low, and then the others dropped the log and ran for shelter.
“Hurrah! they are on the run!” was the cry, and the settlers reloaded their guns with all possible speed.
But the Indians were not yet defeated. Soon they came forward again, and this attack lasted quarter of an hour. A good number of stones were hurled into the fort, and one hit Joe on the shoulder, causing him to cry out from pain.