his guns at Mackinaw."




CHAPTER XV.

BROCK ACCEPTS HULL'S CHALLENGE.


With the country's call for a saviour had arisen the man so sorely
needed. Vigilant, sagacious and brave, but with most inadequate forces,
Brock, faced by a crisis, hurried to repel the invasion by Hull. If
Canada was to be saved, Detroit, as well as Mackinaw, must be reduced.
The confidence also of the savages must be retained. The smallness of
his army demanded the neutrality of the redmen, if not their active aid.

The plan of his campaign was laid before his Executive Council and the
members of his staff. As they parted at the door of the General's
quarters at midnight, preceding the day on which their gallant leader
issued his counter reply to Hull, his final words were: "To hold
Amherstburg, gentlemen, is of vital importance. It is the western base
from which we must resist attack and advance upon Detroit. It must be
held in force."

Brock's written answer to Hull's flamboyant address--edited by his wise
adviser, Judge Powell--was eloquent and dignified. Hull's invitation to
Canadians to seek protection from Britain under the flag of the United
States was, he said, "an insult." He cited the advantages of British
connection, and warned the colonists that secession meant the