As this seemed to be a piece of important information, Jack Davis went to the general’s tent and informed the sentry that he had some important news to communicate.
“The general will see you,” said the sentry, a few moments later as he returned.
Jack entered the tent. He found a number of officers present; among them was Colonel Coffee, the giant leader of the cavalry. The youth saluted General Jackson and upon being asked what he had to say, told of Running Elk’s story of the Creek village. When he had finished, Jackson’s eyes went to Coffee’s face.
“It’s just as you said, colonel,” said he. “They are making ready an attack.”
Coffee nodded, and spoke in a deep voice.
“They’ll attack us within a week,” said he.
But General Jackson shook his head and replied, grimly:
“You are wrong in that, at least. We’ll not await an attack. Take one thousand men and strike at Tallushatchee as hard as you can.”
Coffee sprang alertly to his feet, and pulled his sword belt a hole tighter.
“Now?” he asked eagerly.