Ross’s face was flushed; his eyes were shining. The commanding officer smiled pityingly, as he said:
“You’re exciting yourself over nothing, young man. It is a mere skirmish with the savages; there will be no general engagement. As soon as my men have driven the enemy into the depths of the forest, they will return of their own accord.”
Douglas turned pale with suppressed fury.
“I tell you it’s an ambush, Colonel Dudley!” he exclaimed. “Recall your men, if you would not see them annihilated!”
Dudley returned coldly:
“My youthful guide, I don’t need your advice. I am in command——”
He broke off suddenly and, fixing his eyes upon the edge of the forest where the militiamen were fast disappearing, he muttered:
“They are making a concerted charge. I fear myself they may venture too far and be drawn into a trap. I’ll order a retreat immediately.”
He hurried away to put his tardy resolve into execution. But it was too late; the mischief was done. Elated with the success of their first encounter, the Kentuckians refused to obey the command to retire to the boats. Colonel Dudley stormed and fumed; inferior officers threatened and swore. It availed nothing. The regiment had lost all discipline—had become an enraged mob. Like a mad steed, it took the bit and dashed forward to destruction.