“My news,” and Franklin fluttered his letters triumphantly, “is very much later than yours, it would seem. Burgoyne undoubtedly accomplished what you claim. But it is the result of his subsequent operations of which I speak.”
“You have news, monsieur?” The face of the Count de Vergennes shone with satisfaction; this gentleman was ever a friend to America, and was always hungry for news of American success.
“Burgoyne’s troubles began with his advance upon Fort Edward. A thousand German mercenaries were killed and captured to begin with. Then he crossed the Hudson in force to turn the American position at Bemis Heights; but Arnold met him with desperate courage and held him back.”
A murmur of admiration went up from the Frenchmen present.
“A brilliant officer, this General Arnold,” commented the count.
“Burgoyne’s communications with Lake Champlain were then cut by a dashing enterprise of my countrymen; forced by the hunger of his men, the British general risked another battle,” proceeded Dr. Franklin, “and met with a crushing defeat.”
Another murmur went up; eyes sparkled with pleasure; hands applauded softly.
“But,” argued the Count de Vergennes, “the tables might be turned once more. Burgoyne may still conquer.”
Franklin smiled serenely.
“That is impossible,” said he.