th Massachusetts, Col. Coutri,
and others of prominence.

The only Canadian force in the vicinity of St. Armands was composed of
three companies of infantry, consisting of nine officers and about 100
non-commissioned officers and men, the whole being under command of
Capt. W. Carter, of H. M. 16th Regiment. These troops were all raw
volunteers, who were very deficient in drill or military experience,
some of whom had never handled a rifle before, but all were willing and
anxious to contest Gen. Spier's advance, and were brave to a fault.

As soon as the Fenians appeared in force at St. Armands, Capt. Carter
hastily withdrew his force to the interior, as he said he was under
the impression that it was not intended that he should bring on an
engagement until he was properly reinforced, as his command was only an
outpost. For his action in retiring so early he was severely criticized
and reprimanded for his "error in judgment in retreating without
sufficient reason," while his troops never forgave him for what they
considered an exhibition of cowardice.

The main body of Gen. Spier's forces had advanced about a mile into
Canadian territory, and took possession of all the houses and barns in
the vicinity for their quarters. Their scouts and pickets were thrown
out three or four miles in advance, and for some days they were in
complete possession of the country. During this time the Fenians
conducted themselves in a most lawless manner, robbing and stealing, and
wantonly destroying property. All of the citizens and farmers residing
in the neighborhood were the victims of pillage, being robbed of horses,
provisions, valuables, etc., while cattle, sheep, poultry and other live
stock were confiscated and slaughtered for the use of the raiders.

As the days passed by and the promised arms and reinforcements for Gen.
Spier failed to materialize, he became restless and disheartened. The
United States authorities had seized all of the arms and ammunition that
could be discovered, and the fact was forced on the deluded General's
mind that if he did not leave Canada soon a strong force of British
troops would be upon him and annihilate his command. Moreover, the
demoralization of his whole army was becoming complete, and both
officers and men refused to do duty any longer. Desertions were taking
place in a wholesale manner, and in several instances Colonels marched
off with their entire commands and re-crossed the line. He therefo