Judge. The rebels stood their ground, ’tis reported, and the king’s troops retreated, but not because of defeat——
Mrs. C. Did the Regulars retreat to Boston?
Judge. Yes, and I fear it was a rout at the last. Owing to the firing of the rebels from behind walls and trees, the British became panic-stricken.
Mrs. S. (excitedly). Hurroo for our brave men! ’Tis glorious that they routed the trained troops!
Miss B. But why did the fighting begin out at Lexington, Stephen? ’Tis a good ten miles from Boston.
Judge. General Gage was hoping to destroy the ammunition at Concord. In some way his plan was learned, and Paul Revere, the goldsmith, rode all night warning the countryside. When the Regulars came, the minutemen were ready.
Mrs. A. (compassionately). Did many men fall?
Judge. ’Tis reported a hundred minutemen and nearly three hundred of the king’s troops.
Mrs. S. Well, thanks for that! Each minuteman, it seems, convoyed three Britishers with him out of existence!
Mrs. A. My dear Mrs. Strong! Feel you no pity?