Both sides were well matched. All were on good horses, and every man possessed a heavy musket.
"Do you refuse to surrender?"
"A Green Mountain Boy only surrenders to superiors."
"Then we shall have to make you, unless you acknowledge us as your superiors."
"Men of the mountains!" shouted Allen, "ride through these fellows—ride over them if they will not get out of the way."
Edwards ordered his men to resist and to fire upon the mountaineers.
"So you want to play the part of highwaymen, do you? Boys, return the fire."
One volley was fired by each party, and then the two opposing bodies became mixed up in inextricable confusion.
Muskets were clubbed and heads were cracked as the heavy butts descended on them.
Horses reared, and plunged, and knocked down those men who had become unhorsed.