they instantly fired upon me, which they continued till i had run a dozen rods, discharging not less than 15 or 20 balls at me alone; however thro' the preserving providence of god, i escaped from them all unhurt, and gained the little covert at which i aimed, which concealed me from their view, while i could plainly see them thro' the weeds and bushes, advancing towards me within 12 rods.