One day, when Putnam was visiting him, the Scotchman said:—
“Pray, sir, what countryman are you?”
“An American,” answered Putnam.
“Not a Yankee!” exclaimed the Scotchman.
“A full-blooded one,” replied Putnam.
“I’m sorry for that!” rejoined the Scotchman with an oath. “I did not think there could be so much goodness and generosity in an American, or, indeed, in anybody but a Scotchman!”
Thanks to Putnam’s friendly Yankee care, the Scotchman recovered.
PUTNAM NOT FORGOTTEN!
When General Putnam, full of years and honours, retired from the Army, Washington wrote him a letter telling him that he was entitled to full pay till the close of the War, and afterward to half-pay. The letter was cordial and warm, and in it Washington said:—
“Among the many worthy and meritorious officers, with whom I have had the happiness to be connected in service through the course of this War, and from whose cheerful assistance and advice I have received much support and confidence ... the name of Putnam is not forgotten, nor will it be but with that stroke of time which shall obliterate from my mind the remembrance of all those toils and fatigues through which we have struggled for the preservation and establishment of the Rights, Liberties, and Independence of our Country....