invade the Governor's house and release the prisoner. This was done, and
now it may be said that war between the rival Companies was declared. On
the return of Miles Macdonald, Cameron ordered his arrest. Macdonell
refused to acknowledge the lawfulness of this action. The oily
Nor'-Wester Highlander then threatened the people that if the Governor
would not submit to the law, the whole body of settlers would be
dispossessed of their farms and driven away from the banks of Red River.
As if to make this threat seem more real, several loyal settlers were
fired at by unseen marksmen.

Once having begun, Cameron was not the man to hesitate. Another
Nor'-Wester plan was put into effect.

Cameron's comrade, Alexander Macdonell, now arrived from the Western
plains leading it was said, a band of Cree Indians. The Crees are
stubborn and determined warriors, but they are also crafty. The proposal
by Alexander Macdonell ("Yellow Head as he was called" to distinguish
him), was gravely considered by the Indians. The Indians respect
authority and in this case they were not very sure who had the
authority. The Indians declined the offer, and the report proved untrue.

The Nor'-Westers were, however, strong in their influence over the
Chippewas of Red Lake in Minnesota. Similar propositions were made to
the Sand Lake band of this tribe. Though offered a large reward to go on
this expedition against the Selkirk settlers, the chief refused the
bribe, and the tribe declined to undertake the enterprise.

Cameron however, knew the importance of keeping up the war-like spirit
of his following, and early in June himself took part in an attack upon
the Colony houses. The affray took place on the edge of the wood near
the Governor's residence. Surgeon White and Burke the store-keeper,
narrowly escaped being killed by the shots fired and four of the
servants were actually wounded. Cameron like a real operator effusively
thanked his followers for their grand attack. This state of constant
hostility, ostensibly on account of the refusal of Governor Macdonell to
respect the legal summons served upon him, was ended by the surrender of
Miles Macdonell, who was taken as a prisoner to Montreal, though he was
never brought up for trial.

Thus far Cameron had succeeded in his plans. He was an artful plotter.
His capture of Miles Macdonell gave him great prestige. Besides, he had
roused feelings of serious discontent in the minds of nearly all of the