Ushered into the American commander’s presence, Major Chambers said:
“General Proctor has directed me to demand the surrender of this post. He wishes to spare the effusion of blood.”
General Harrison smiled blandly, as he replied:
“The demand under present circumstances is most extraordinary. As General Proctor didn’t send me a summons to surrender, on his first arrival, I had supposed that he believed me determined to do my duty. His present message indicates an opinion of me that I’m at a loss to account for.”
Major Chambers’ face flushed as he hastened to say:
“General Proctor could never think of saying anything to wound your feelings, sir. The character of General Harrison, as an officer, is well known. General Proctor’s force is very respectable, and there is with him a larger body of Indians than has ever before been embodied.”
General Harrison drew himself stiffly erect. His keen eyes flashed as he answered:
“I believe I have a very correct idea of General Proctor’s force; and it is not such as to create the least apprehension for the result of the contest, whatever shape he may be pleased hereafter to give to it. Assure the General, however, that he will never have this post surrendered to him, upon any terms. Should it fall into his hands, it will be in a manner calculated to do him more honor, and give him larger claims upon the gratitude of his government, than any capitulation could possibly do.”
Major Chambers did not push the matter further, but, after an arrangement for an exchange of prisoners had been made, bowed and withdrew.