My father did not reply, but I am very sure that, had he been left to act by himself, he would have earned out his intentions, and would most probably have perished.  From Pierre's report we fully expected every minute to see the Blackfeet appear.  To each man under Uncle Donald's directions a post was assigned, which he was charged to defend with his life.  Orders were, however, given that no one was to fire until the word of command was received.