Having succeeded in their excursion, they were returning with a drove of cattle and some horses they had taken off, when they were overtaken by Captain Samuel Kipp at the head of his troop, while they were traversing in their retreat home, the cross road which commences about a half a mile below Prince Gedney's corner and connects Purdy [X2] lane ^street with North street. Honum was conspicuous at the time the pursuers came up, being mounted upon a very fine horse which had belonged to one of Kipps men. The Refugees had been following after the plunderers
[X1] sometimes written Honum. [X2] sometimes written Purdy's Lane, and Purdy Street.
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with the most vindictive feelings, and the sight of this horse which they at once recognized, added to their ferocity. Kipp charged instantly, crying to his men - "Pursue, boys! pursue! Down with them and no quarter!" The Skinners who were now all mounted (?) [See William Barker's account] spurred their horses on- -ward to their utmost speed, but the strong efforts which in moments of extremity men so often make and make successfully were unavailing upon this occasion. All but the leader were overtaken and cut to pieces without mercy. The extraordinary fleetness and power of endurance of Honham's horse were barely sufficient to save the rider's life - for Captain Kipp at one time came up with him and striking at the flying skinner wounded his horse. One of the first skinners overtaken was a young man who, after receiving a great many sword cuts, was left upon the ground for dead. He was, however, still alive,