Wayne wrote to Washington concerning clothing: "I have an [word illegible] Prejudice in favor of an Elegant Uniform & Soldierly Appearance—... I would much rathar risque my life and Reputation at the Head of the same men in an Attack Clothed & Appointed as I could wish—with a Single Charge of Ammunition—than to take them as they appear in Common with Sixty Rounds of Cartridges." (Dawson, 20-21.)
Washington wrote in reply: "I agree perfectly with you." (Ib., 21.)
[460] Marshall, i, 310.
[461] Wayne's order of battle was as picturesque as it was specific. Officer and private were directed "to fix a Piece of White paper in the most Conspicuous part of his Hat or Cap ... their Arms unloaded placing their whole Dependence on the Bayt.... If any Soldier presumes to take his Musket from his Shoulder or Attempt to fire or begin the battle until Ordered by his proper Officer he shall be Instantly put to death by the Officer next him.... Should any Soldier ... attempt to Retreat one Single foot or Sculk in the face of danger, the Officer next to him is Immediately to put him to death." (Ib., 35-38.)
[462] Wayne to Delaney, July 15, 1779; Dawson, 46-47.
[463] The generous and even kindly treatment which the Americans accorded the vanquished British is in striking contrast with the latter's treatment of Americans under similar circumstances. When the fort was taken, the British cried, "Mercy, mercy, dear, dear Americans," and not a man was injured by the victors after he ceased to resist. (Dawson, 53; and Marshall, i, 311.)
[464] The fort was captured so quickly that the detachment to which Marshall was assigned had no opportunity to advance.
[465] Marshall, i, 314.
[466] Ib., 314-16.
[467] The rolls show Marshall in active service as captain until December 9, 1779. (Records, War Dept.) He retired from the service February 12, 1781. (Heitman, 285.)