It was decided that four of the men should remain on the hill.
The others, including the five, Heemskerk, and Taylor, would make
a circuit, cross the creek a full mile above, and come down on
the flank of the ambushing party. Theirs would be the main
attack, but it would be preceded by sharpshooting from the four,
intended to absorb the attention of the Iroquois. The chosen ten
slipped back down the hill, and as soon as they were sheltered
from any possible glimpse by the warriors, they rose and ran
rapidly westward. Before they had gone far they heard the crack
of a rifle shot, then another, then several from another point,
as if in reply.
"It's our sharpshooters," said Henry. " They've begun to disturb
the Iroquois, and they'll keep them busy."
"Until we break in on their sport and keep them still busier,"
exclaimed Heemskerk, revolving swiftly through the bushes, his
face blazing red.
It did not take long for such as they to go the mile or so that
they intended, and then they crossed the creek, wading in the
water breast high, but careful to keep their ammunition dry.
Then they turned and rapidly descended the stream on its northern
bank.
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