He thoroughly understood their natures, and was always on his guard, while seemingly perfectly confident; and he combined conciliation with firmness and decision, and above all with prompt rapidity of action.
For the first two or three days no conclusion was reached, though there was plenty of speech-making.

But on the night of the third a party of turbulent warriors [Footnote: "A party of Puans and others."-- Clark's letter to Mason.] endeavored to force their way into the house where he was lodging, and to carry him off.

Clark, who, as he records, had been "under some apprehensions among such a number of Devils," was anticipating treachery.

His guards were at hand, and promptly seized the savages; while the townspeople took the alarm and were under arms in a couple of minutes, thus convincing the Indians that their friendship for the Americans was not feigned.
Clark and the Savages.
Clark instantly ordered the French militia to put the captives, both chiefs and warriors, in irons.

He had treated the Indians well, and had not angered them by the harshness and brutality that so often made them side against the English or Americans and in favor of the French; but he knew that any signs of timidity would be fatal.