The Madisonian. [volume] (Washington City [i.e. Washington, D.C.]) 1837-1845, 1841-09-21

committed when it was discovered, and in a We
~ lew moments more, Kurker and his fifty men
were in close pursuit Of the Indians Knowing
that the thieves would endeavor 10 escape over
the mountains, by ascending ravine that
opened into the valley near the spot where the
robbery was committed, Kurker led his men
quickly around by-path, up the mountain side,
and as the gray light of morning spread over the
valley, the pursuers found themselves upon an
eminence commanding the ravine up which the
Indians were hurrying, mounted upon the stolen
horses.
The marauders numbered about hundred
and twenty, more than doubling the force of the
pursuing party; but although these vagabonds
held the Sprniards in great contempt, they are
the viest towards when opposed by the Ameri-
cans. Cunning as they were they did not dis
cover their danger until fifty American rifles were
levelled, each with deadly aim at a separate
victim.
The first cry OF alarm from the Indians was
the signal TO fire, and as the early sunbeam
penetrated the ravine, echo started suddenly
from the slumber, bounded suddenly from
ciif to cliff, and away among the distant crags
IKE the spirit of fear running from death and
danger. Twenty Indians fell from their horses
at that fire, some with single irghtful veil ex-
pring on the instant, while others with cench-
ed teeth, and the desperate energy Of departing
life, chung TO the reins, and were dragged about
and trod upon by the alarmed horses. The In
dams ride like devils, and without pausing an
instant, they turned and fled towards the valley.
Some that were wounded fell from the frighten-
ed animals while they were in full speed down
the ravine. kurker and his men followed with
out reloadng their rifles, and chased the Indians
until they emerged from the ravine, and took
refuge within the walls of the Ranch.
This town, called the Ranch, lies at the base
OF gigantic mountain, and is watered by a
swift stream that rushes from the ravine we have
mentioned. 1t contains about three hundred
houses, and these are built compactly together.
forminga wall, and enclosing a large square, in
the centre Of which stands the church. Into
this square the Indians rushed and endeavored
to force their way into the church, having been
taught to believe thar the sacred roof is protec-
ton against all danger But Kurker's men felt no
disposition TO let the savages off so easily, and
reloading their rifles they resumed the attack
within the walls OF the town. 1t was still early
IN the morning, and the inhabitants sprang from
| their beds in the widest confusion and alarm
First was heard the thronging Of the Indians
into the town--their murmurs Of fear and terror;
then the shouts Of the pursuers; children scream
ed within the dwellings, and there was rapid
closing and barring of doors and windows
Then came the report of fire arms, followed by
the most fendish screams and yells from the
victims, over which again rose the loud hurrahs
OF the Americans as wild and savage as the
dreadful war-whoop Of the Indian. The men
seemed delirious with the excitement, and TO be-
come inspired with the savage nature Of their
enemies. One man, after discharging his rifle
and pistols, rushed madly among the Indians
with his knife, and actually succeeded in taking
scalp before he was killed. The fight lasted
but half an hour, when the Indians begged for
mercy, and were suffered to depart
kurther's men are mostly robust, daring fell
lows, from Kentucky and Missouri; wagoners.
spectators, who yielded to the seductons ofthe
Monte Bank, and were ruined; men of rough,
yet chivalrous and romantic natures, who love
the wild life they are leading. Their pay from
Kurker is dollar day and half the booty, SO
that their interest, as well as their love of ex-
citement, leads them 10 make battle whenever
opportunity occurs. In this battle forty Indians
were killed, and of Kurker's party but one Anne
rican and one half-breed. The stolen horses
were recovered, and all the other animals in the
possession of the Indians were taken as booty
Kurker himself is as brave as lion, and man
of great enterprise as well as skill in this kind
of warfare. Having but just commenced opera
tons, his force is small, but men were throngng
to join him every day, and he will soon be at
the head of powerful army--N o. Picayune