On the morning of November 2, 1869, Riel led a band of Métis through the woods along the Red and Assiniboine rivers. Keeping under cover, they headed toward Upper Fort Garry. Riel entered and asked to speak to William Cowan, who was in charge. While the two men talked, 120 armed Métis, in small groups, slipped inside the unwatched gates of the fort.
When he learned what had happened, Cowan rounded on Riel. “What are these men doing here?” he demanded.
“They have come to guard the fort,” said Riel, politely.
“Guard it? Against whom?” spluttered Cowan.