While discussing this matter, Ensign Ward entered the camp, and surprised both Washington and Trent by saying:
"The garrison at the fort have surrendered to the French."
Captain Trent left Ensign Ward in command of his force at the forks, while he was recruiting at Will's Creek.
"How can that be?" exclaimed Trent, surprised beyond measure.
"On the 17th," the ensign explained, "we were surprised by the appearance of the French fleet in the river, under the command of Captain Contrecoeur, consisting of three hundred canoes and sixty batteaux, carrying a thousand men and eighteen cannon."
"To take possession of the forks and erect a fort for their own defence," interjected Washington, who had called the attention of Governor Dinwiddie to the probability of such an event.
"Yes, that was what they came for," replied Ward; "and they were glad to see one so far under way, no doubt, as it would lighten their labors."
"Did they make an attack?" inquired Washington.
"Captain Contrecoeur planted his cannon to sweep the fort, drew up his men in readiness for an attack, and then sent a demand to the English to surrender in one hour, or he would open fire."