“About ten miles around, I should say. Fourth Lake is about twice the size.”
War and strife were forgotten for a few moments under the spell of this beautiful scene. The silence did not long continue, however, for the order to camp here for the night was soon given and preparations were made at once. Scouts came in and reported Indians but a few miles away, but nothing happened to disturb the encampment during the night. The next morning at daybreak the men were up and once more on the march.
Across the isthmus between Third and Fourth Lakes swept the army. Joseph, Robert, Mason and Deerfoot rode in front with Ewing’s spy battalion and soon picked up the trail. It was easy to follow and more and more evidences of the desperation of the Sacs came into view. Apparently the Indians were discarding everything but their firearms.
In desperate haste the army advanced. Several horses gave out, but the troopers thus deprived of their mounts kept on on foot, not one whit discouraged by their mishaps.
Several Indians were shot. They were all old men who were exhausted by hunger and unable to keep pace with the rest of their band. The morning passed and noon came. With undiminished speed the army pressed forward. At about half-past four in the afternoon the Indians were sighted. They had taken up their position on the bluffs about a mile and a half from the Wisconsin River.
“Halt!” came the sharp command. “Dismount!” A moment later the army was on foot, awaiting the next order. This soon came, and the men were instructed to form in line and prepare to charge. One man out of every four was delegated to hold the horses.
Scarcely had the army time to do as they were commanded when the Sacs themselves charged. Yelling like madmen they rushed down upon the Whites. A heavy volley from their guns failed to break the lines of the troops, however, and the fire was returned spiritedly.
“Let ’em have it! Give it to them!” cried Robert enthusiastically.
“Charge!” came the order.
With a cheer the men advanced. They returned the galling fire of the Indians with deadly effect, but their foes were not lacking in valor.