But the most powerful motive for the attacks was doubtless simply the desire for scalps and plunder.

They gathered from different quarters to assail the colonists, just as the wild beasts gathered to prey on the tame herds.
The Indians began to commit murders, kill the stock, and drive off the horses in April, and their ravages continued unceasingly throughout the year.

Among the slain was a son of Robertson, and also the unfortunate Jonathan Jennings, the man who had suffered such loss when his boat was passing the whirl of the Tennessee River.

The settlers were shot as they worked on their clearings, gathered the corn crops, or ventured outside the walls of the stockades.

Hunters were killed as they stooped to drink at the springs, or lay in wait at the licks.