Soon after daylight the journey was continued. The little band kept close together and a sharp lookout was maintained at all times. They followed the old trail from Chicago to Galena and toward noon came to Kellogg’s Grove Fort, on Plum River. They stopped there for their noonday meal and then soon after proceeded on their way. Excellent progress was made and several hours before sundown they spied a small blockhouse, called Apple River Fort, about fourteen miles east of Galena.
“That’s Apple River Fort!” exclaimed John Mason as the sturdy little building appeared in the distance. “We’ve made good time and we’ll be in Galena before long.”
“If we reach there before dark it will be time enough,” said Joseph.
The sharp report of a rifle interrupted him. He was half turned about in his saddle and held the reins loosely in one hand. His right hand rested on his horse’s back as he looked around at his companions. The rifle ball struck him squarely in the right forearm and nearly precipitated him from the saddle. At the same time his horse jumped and only superb horsemanship saved the man from being thrown to the ground.
“In the arm. It isn’t anything,” said Mason quickly.
“Can you ride all right?” demanded Joseph.
“Then we’d better waste no time. Just look back there!”
One glance was sufficient. Behind them and coming on at full speed was a war party of over one hundred Indians. Once more the two brothers heard the war whoop resound over the plains and again they fled for their lives.
“Make for the fort!” cried Mason. He set spurs to his horse and closely followed by the three others raced for the blockhouse looming up before them. The yells of the Indians sounded in their ears, while bullets cut the air all about them.
Joseph soon outdistanced the others, owing to the superior speed of The Swallow, and he was the first to arrive at the fort. His comrades were not far behind, however, and as they came within the protection of the stockade they were greeted by a cheer from the occupants who had watched the thrilling race with breathless interest. At the same time a volley from the rifles of the defenders caused the Indians to halt abruptly.
A moment later the four messengers were inside the fort and were preparing to assist in its defense. Men, women and children were there, all gathered from the nearby cabins and surrounding farms. John Mason’s wound quickly received attention and was found to be not at all serious. When it had been bathed and bound up he was even able to handle his gun.