In their haste they had overlooked the cellar below.

They had no thought of its existence, nor that we awaited them rifles in hand and with an amply supply of powder and lead.

Whatever might be the final result, a surprise of no pleasant nature was awaiting their advance.
Convinced, as I had become, that Black Hawk was actually with the party, although I was unable to obtain any glimpse of him, I felt there was small chance of his departure, without making at least one effort to capture the cabin.

That was his nature, his reputation--that of a bulldog to hang on, a tiger to strike.

More even, this band of raiders must be far south of the main body of the Hawk's followers, and hence in danger themselves.