In 1689, the War of the Grand Alliance was raging in Europe, the little colony of New France on the banks of the Saint Lawrence River was suffering and demoralized. Attacked by the English garrisons and their Iroquois allies to the south, the Canadiens, as the colonists were called, rallied around Frontenac their governor.

Frontenac mounted a series of quick surprise attacks on outposts of the New England colonies. In response, the British sent a fleet of 34 war ships out from Boston to capture the French colony.

In Montr?al, Frontenac heard of the threat, and set off for Qu?bec, taking with him all his troops. The fortress of Qu?bec was the gateway of the Saint Lawrence and guarded the rest of the colony. If it fell to the enemy, the colony of New France would be lost.

The siege of Qu?bec began on October 16, 1690. Admiral Phips sent Major Savage, to order the governor to surrender. When he landed, he was blindfolded and taken through the town to Frontenac's headquarters. Along the way citizens and soldiers raised a great commotion, giving the impression that the town was crowded with troops.

The blindfolded British emissary was finally brought before Governor Frontenac. When Savage delivered his message, Frontenac replied, "My only reply to your general, will be from the mouth of my cannons!"

The next day 1,400 British troops landed at Qu?bec, but were held off by less than 500 Canadiens. After three days the British retreated, leaving five of their six artillery pieces in the field.