O'Neil at Franklin, and after reading to him President Grant's proclamation, endeavored to dissuade him from advancing over the line.

But the Fenian General refused to comply with his advice, and expressed his contempt for the President in language more forcible and profane than polite.

As Gen.
Foster had no troops at his command to compel obedience by the Fenian leaders, he crossed over the line and informed the Canadian commander (Col.

Chamberlain) of O'Neil's designs and his inability to stop the raiders.
About 11 o'clock on May 25th Gen.

O'Neil mounted his horse and rode down from Franklin to the Fenian camp.