In spite of this a scattering of bullets met the Hessians as they began their charge. Even in the dawn, the face of Washington shone with exultation. Ezra, who stood near him, heard him say to one of his officers:
“They are gorged like animals and cannot fight long. After the first volley, we’ll give them the bayonet.”
A moment later he lifted his hand; the order to fire was given, and the onrushing Hessians began to fall. Through the dimness and smoke George saw Rahl press a hand to his side and sway in his saddle.
“He’s hit!” cried the lad.
And no sooner had the words left his mouth than the Hessian leader pitched forward under his horse’s feet. Dismayed at his fall, the mercenaries faltered; then the hardy colonials broke upon them with sword, bayonet and pistol; but the sluggish, overfed foreigners had no stomach for hard fighting and in a few moments the cry went up for quarter; and then to a man they threw down their arms.
It was high noon before the last batch of prisoners had been banded together to be sent across the river; and half the American force was busy in making ready the Hessian stores and plunder for transportation. Now and then a shot rang out which told of a detected looter, or an unearthed enemy; but for the most part the streets were quiet.
Private property, by Washington’s strict order, was in every way protected. Before the Hawksworth mansion paced a guard of stalwart continentals; within was gathered a party which laughed and talked joyously. Stout old Merchant Camp shook Ezra Prentiss by the hand for perhaps the tenth time.
“And so you are Seth’s other grandson, eh? Well, well! And both of you hold to Washington and the Congress, you say! Were there ever such times in the world before!”
“And grandfather, too, don’t forget that,” laughed Ezra.