The afternoon was far advanced, so the commander decided to go into camp. But a number of his officers urged him to move quickly forward and attack the town at once. This he refused to do, saying:
“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: