But yells of triumph soon
proclaimed the delight with which the Indians witnessed the completion of
their fell design. The whoops followed this burst of pleasure, and a third
onset was made.
The combatants now fought under a brightness which, though less natural,
was scarcely less brilliant than that of noon-day. Stimulated by the
prospect of success, which was offered by the conflagration, the savages
rushed upon the stockade with more audacity than it was usual to display
in their cautious warfare. A broad shadow was cast, by the hill and its
buildings, across the fields on the side opposite to the flames, and
through this belt of comparative gloom, the fiercest of the band made
their way to the very palisadoes, with impunity. Their presence was
announced by the yell of delight, for too many curious eyes had been
drinking in the fearful beauty of the conflagration, to note their
approach, until the attack had nearly proved successful. The rushes to the
defence, and to the attack, were now alike quick and headlong. Volleys
were useless, for the timbers offered equal security to both assailant and
assailed.
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