Eastburn was taken prisoner by the French on this occasion and removed to a town called " Oswegotchy." 2 He was scarcely four arpens off when the fire communicating to the rest of the powder blew up the fort. The buildings were carried away and whatever remained was in an instant in a blaze. The shock was so violent and the commotion so great, that his troop, seized with terror, fell on their knees. Mem. Sur les aff. du Canada.

'

PAPERS RELATING TO THE ONEIDA COUNTRY AND MOHAWK VALLEY.

and all the ammunition that could be found, thrown notwithstanding into the water.

He had the 1

batteaux staved in, and then set out to meet the sortie of which he had been informed.

But he

learned on the road that the Indians had repulsed it after having killed 17 men. This sortie was from Fort Williams on the intelligence carried thither by the Negro. The Indians who, unwilling to attack Fort Bull, took charge of the road, acquitted themselves so well that this detachment quickly

The Indians coming some hours after to congratulate on his fortunate success failed not to make the most of their advantage.

retreated with a loss of 17 men.

A Chief asked him if he proposed attacking the other fort

M de Lery

which was nothing more than a boast

;

M de Lery replied he would proceed forthwith if the Indians would follow him.

on his part.

This

reply drove this Chief off and all those of his party prepared to follow.