the other to again
open the ball. During this resting spell, the reserve division of the
trappers came in sight, having been anxiously expected for some time.
The Indians showed no fear at this addition to the number of their
adversaries. On the contrary, being no doubt carried away by their
recent success in making a stand, they commenced posting themselves
among the rocks about one hundred and fifty yards distant from the
position taken up by the trappers. The arrival of the reserve was
a great relief to the advance, because, they were tired of fighting
without ammunition. Having well filled their ammunition pouches they
once more became eager for the affray. Everything being in readiness,
with a cheer, they started on foot to attack and dislodge the enemy.
In a few moments was commenced the severest skirmish of the day. It
became so exciting that frequently a trapper would occupy one side,
and a stalwart warrior the other, of some large rock, each intent
upon the life of his adversary. In such cases it required the closest
watchfulness and the utmost dexterity to kill or dislodge the bold
savage. The power of powder in the hands of skillful men soon began
to assert its superiority in the battle, and when once the Indians
commenced to waver, it was all over with them. Their first wavering
soon broke into a complete rout, when they ran for their lives. As
they scattered in every direction, the pursuit which followed was
short. In this battle the trappers considered that they had thoroughly
settled all outstanding accounts with the Blackfeet Indians, for they
had killed a large number of their warriors and wounded many more. On
their side three men only were killed and a few severely wounded.

Fontenelle and his men camped for a few days in the vicinity of the
scene of their late engagement, burying their dead and repairing
damages. They then resumed the business of trapping, traversing the
Blackfeet country whenever they chose without fear of molestation.
The success in their late engagement seemed to follow them in their
business, for their stock of fur accumulated rapidly.

While they were encamped upon Green River, an express rider, sent by
the traders, came into camp and informed the party that the rendezvous
would be held on Mud River. With a large stock of beaver, the party
started for that place, arriving in eight days.

Besides the usual traders and trappers, the party met at this
rendezvous some missionari