The cavalry arrived in the nick of time. A battle was imminent that might have ended in a massacre. Within striking distance of Brown's island Colonel Sumner encountered General Whitfield, a Southern Member of Congress, at the head of a squadron of avengers, two hundred and fifty strong, heavily armed and well mounted.
Sumner acted with quick decision. He confronted Whitfield and spoke with a quiet emphasis not to be mistaken:
"By order of the President of the United States and the Governor of the Territory, I am here to disperse all armed bodies assembled without authority."
"May I see the order of the President, sir?" Whitfield asked.
"You may."
The telegraphic order was handed to the leader. He read it in silence and handed it back without a word.
Colonel Sumner continued:
"My duty is plain and I'll do it."
He signaled Stuart to draw up his company for action. The Lieutenant promptly obeyed. Fifty regulars wheeled and faced two hundred and fifty rugged horsemen of the plains.
Whitfield consulted his second in command and while they talked Colonel
Sumner again addressed him: