On the top of the fort some individuals were seen rushing about in despair, while others, on their knees seemed to be imploring divine mercy.
Suddenly a horrible crackling was heard, a cry of extreme agony rose towards heaven, and the fort crumbled down into the burning pile which consumed it, throwing up millions of sparks.
All was over.
The Americans had perished!
The Comanches planted an enormous mast on the spot where the square had been. This mast, to which were nailed the hands of the colonists, was surmounted by a hatchet, the iron of which was stained with blood.
Then, after setting fire to the few cabins that were left standing, Eagle Head gave orders for departure.
The four women and the old man, the sole survivors of the population of this unfortunate settlement, followed the Comanches.
And a melancholy silence hovered over these smoking ruins, which had just been the theatre of so many sorrowful scenes.