was directed to the possession of these strongholds. The
following plan, well worthy of his invention, was at
length determined upon. During a temporary truce, and
while Ponteac was holding forth proposals for an ultimate
and durable peace, a game of lacrosse was arranged by
him to take place simultaneously on the common or clearing
on which rested the forts of Michilimackinac and Detroit.
The better to accomplish their object, the guns of the
warriors had been cut short and given to their women,
who were instructed to conceal them under their blankets,
and during the game, and seemingly without design, to
approach the drawbridge of the fort. This precaution
taken, the players were to approach and throw over their
ball, permission to regain which they presumed would not
be denied. On approaching the drawbridge they were with
fierce yells to make a general rush, and, securing the
arms concealed by the women, to massacre the unprepared
garrison.

The day was fixed; the game commenced, and was proceeded
with in the manner previously arranged. The ball was
dexterously hurled into the fort, and permission asked
to recover it. It was granted. The drawbridge was lowered,
and the Indians dashed forward for the accomplishment of
their work of blood. How different the results in the
two garrisons! At Detroit, Ponteac and his warriors had
scarcely crossed the drawbridge when, to their astonishment
and disappointment, they beheld the guns of the ramparts
depressed--the artillerymen with lighted matches at their
posts and covering the little garrison, composed of a