In judging Mary Newton, one must consider time and place.
But happily there was no need for her to use her tomahawk.

As the five rushed in, four of them emptied their double-barreled pistols, while Henry swung his clubbed rifle with terrible effect.

It was too much for the Senecas.

The apparition of the armed woman, whom they had left bound, and the deadly fire from the five figures that sprang upon them, was like a blow from the hand of Aieroski.

The unhurt and wounded fled deep into the forest, leaving their dead behind.