“I doubt it, Angus. You always were a tenacious fellow.”
“What’s the good o’ stayin’ when Congress won’t provide board an’ clothes? They sure are a shiftless lot.”
“They might easily be improved, it would seem, but we’ve gone too far in this war to turn back now.”
“Starvin’ an’ freezin’ ain’t goin’ ter help ther cause none.”
“Spring will soon be here and we’ll feel better, I hope.”
Spring was approaching, and never again was the American army to suffer as it did that winter at Valley Forge. Those who endured, and lived through it, won such glory as few men achieve.
Colonel Morgan rejoined his command in the spring. The enemy were beginning to show signs of animation. Rumours were about that Howe intended to leave Philadelphia, and then another to the effect that he was to be recalled.
One day a company of Rangers was sent to support Lafayette at Barren Hill, Rodney among the number. 246 Two British generals were marching their men by different routes from Philadelphia to capture the distinguished Frenchman and his command.
“Here,” thought young Allison, “is my chance,” and he set his face, which had noticeably hardened during the cruel winter. No more would it look with favour on the flattering smiles of a girl; at least Rodney had so resolved.
When the charge was made in characteristic Ranger manner, Allison was in the front line and was the last to turn back, though there were several bullet holes in his clothes. Another charge, and again he was in the lead. A big redcoat was upon him before he could reload. He clubbed his rifle, knocked aside the bayonet thrust and felled his antagonist. Then, when he turned to retreat, it was too late; a flanking party was at his back, and, with several other prisoners, he was driven off to Philadelphia.