At that time the king was looked upon as the anointed of Heaven, and only the boldest would dare to say a word against him.
Allen was too democratic to look upon George as infallible, and to him he was only the head of the nation, and no better than any other man.
But the mass of the people had not shaken off their Old World ideas of royalty.
"Boys, it may be that his majesty has confirmed the decree," said Allen, "but he was misinformed, and when he hears from our own governor, the governor from whom we hold our lands, he will change his opinion and secure us in our titles. Until then shall we defend them ourselves?"
"Ay, to the death," answered Seth Warner.
"Then load your guns, and let us drive back these Yorkers into their own colony."
The Green Mountain Boys fell into line, Ethan Allen and Seth Warner in front, and in that order they marched against the sheriff's posse.
Volley after volley was fired, and several on each side fell wounded, some fatally.
Back fell the Yorkers, and still onward went the gallant boys under Allen's lead.
Allen thought the march too slow, and he gave the order to go at double quick.