But he yearned for America, and so sold his commission and came to New York, where he married and took a leading part with the sturdy men who refused to bow the knee to English tyranny.
When the Continental Congress was held Montgomery was a delegate, and he pledged his sword in defense of the popular rights.
No wonder that Ethan Allen should be pleased with the Irishman. They were kindred spirits.
Montgomery asked Allen to tell him of the struggle of the Vermonters against the pretensions of New York.
Allen did so, but somewhat bitterly.
"Nay, my dear Allen, do not let that irritate you. We shall soon make common cause, and instead of the colonies we shall have a nation, and we shall be citizens, not subjects."
"Citizens!" Allen repeated.
"Yes, mark me. If the colonies become a nation there will be a free government based on equal rights, and none will be subject to another, but all be equal before the law."
Montgomery saw more clearly into the future than did even Washington.
When the Congress was over, and Washington commenced his work of creating an army, Allen returned home, somewhat disappointed.