Gansevoort determined to favour the execution of this design by a vigorous sortie; and upwards of two hundred men, to be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Willet, were drawn out for that purpose.
[Sidenote: Herkimer, advancing to the relief of the fort, falls into an ambuscade, and is defeated with loss.] Unfortunately St.Leger received information the preceding day of Herkimer's approach, and, early in the morning, placed a strong party, composed of regulars and Indians, in ambuscade on the road along which he was to march.

His first notice of it was given by a heavy discharge of small arms, which was followed by a furious attack from the Indians with their tomahawks.

He defended himself with resolution; but was defeated with great slaughter.

The general and several of the field officers were wounded; and many others, among whom were several persons of distinction, were killed or taken prisoners.

The loss was estimated at four hundred men.