Sure enough, the Indians did appear to be withdrawing. Their fire was slackening and they evidently were convinced that the sacrifice necessary to take the fort would not be worth while. Everywhere they appeared to be retreating. Loud yells of triumph sounded from sturdy little Apple River Fort as its defenders saw their enemy moving away.
The white men did not escape loss, however. Even from the fort the Indians could be seen pillaging the nearby houses and barns. Cattle and horses that could not be moved inside the stockade were being driven away, and the Indians were loading the horses with bags of provisions taken from the storehouses of the settlers.
“That can’t be helped, I’m afraid,” remarked Captain Stone when he heard what was going on. “We still have our lives and we ought to count ourselves lucky. Certainly they are worth more than a few cattle and some provisions.”
Everyone else seemed to share this view, though at first a few of the more daring ones had been eager to sally out and continue the contest. They were soon persuaded that such an undertaking would be foolhardy, however, and were content to remain where they were.
Joseph still had his dispatches for Colonel Strode and he was at a loss as to what he should do about them. Finally he decided to ask Captain Stone.
“Don’t even think of going now!” exclaimed that officer, when Joseph asked his opinion about pushing on that night. “Why, it’s almost dark now and you don’t know how many of those Indians are still lurking about. I consider that you’ve done enough for today. By all means wait until morning before you even consider leaving here.”
This advice Joseph reported to his three companions, who all agreed with Captain Stone. Even Robert thought it might be advisable to wait. It was so decided and they immediately made preparations to spend the night at Apple River Fort.
The Indians had evidently given up all idea of capturing the fort, for no sign of them appeared during the night, and in the morning it was even considered safe to venture outside the stockade. This was done with great caution, however, for it was never safe to count on anything that a hostile Indian might do.
“I wish I’d seen Black Hawk,” exclaimed Robert, while he and his three companions were eating breakfast. “You’re sure he was there, Deerfoot?”