the woods. His army was made up of a large body of French
Canadians, Indians, and regular soldiers of the regiments
of La Reine and Languedoc. He marched by way of Wood
Creek, and was bent on making a vigorous attack on Fort
Lyman. But when he arrived at a point about midway between
Fort Lyman and Johnson's camp on Lake George, his Indians
became unruly, declaring that they would march no farther
south nor venture off the soil that belonged to France.
There was nothing for Dieskau to do but to change his
plans. Swerving in a north-westerly direction, he struck
the new road that Johnson had made to the lake. This he
followed, intending to fall upon the English forces
wherever he should find them.

Johnson's scouts, prowling to the southward, detected
this move. Back to the encampment they brought the news
of Dieskau's approach and the English leader at once made
ready to defend his position. Trees were felled; the
wagons and bateaux were brought up; a strong breastwork
was built across the new-cut roadway; cannon were put in
position to play upon the advancing enemy. Then discussion
took place as to the advisability of making a sortie
against the foe. It was suggested that five hundred men
would be sufficient, but at the mention of this number
King Hendrick, the Indian leader, interposed. What,
indeed, could such a paltry handful do in the face of
the oncoming Frenchmen?

'If they are to fight,' he said, 'they are too few; if
they are to be killed, they are too many.'