Help?

Long version - I'm out in the middle of nowhere.  It's practically the edge of the map; I like the spot because it's right on top of a trade hub and there wasn't anyone else around for a good three screens.

I just got my second city up and running two days ago.  I logged on yesterday to find a zero-pop New Settlement just about directly between my first and second cities, not more than ten squares from my capital.  I built a small army, I messaged the leader of the owner's alliance just to make sure my intentions and reasoning were clear, I traipsed on over and took me a few resources (less than 1000).

I woke up this morning to find four armies bearing down on me, ETA the beginning of next week.  Turns out the guy wasn't inactive.  No, no, I attacked his fourth city, which he placed on the other side of the map from his first three.

Now I get that I made a mistake in not checking what towns the guy had, and I'm willing to suffer the consequences of said action - but four armies, coming from towns that are four times my total population?  That's gonna wipe me out of the game, and I've rather enjoyed myself during the last few weeks.  I've messaged the guy, but even if he accepts my apology it's too late to recall the attack.

So now I turn to you, forumgoers, and plead for your assistance.  I have no idea how large the incoming forces actually are.  I don't have much in the way of payment that I could offer, and I can't promise that you'd get anything other than a damaged defending army for your trouble, but if any of you find yourselves willing I would be indebted for your help.

The town under attack is First Gate, located at 959/47.