"But Clinton has more men than we," replied Charles Lee, in protesting tones, "and his equipment is much superior."
"He retreats, and we pursue," said the general-in-chief.
"That is true," rejoined Lee; "but I think we should be very cautious."
His words and tone did not indicate zeal. How heartily I have since cursed the traitor, and how many others have done the same.
"And why so cautious?" burst in the impetuous Wayne. "One cannot win a battle unless he fights!"
"You might have found caution a good thing, General Wayne," replied Lee, in smooth, soft tones. "Remember how they cut you up at Paoli."
Wayne flushed with anger, but he was too manly to deny his only disaster.
"It is true," he said, "but the fault was mine. My troops did not get a chance to fight. Here they will have it."
"We shall invite our own rout," said Lee. "The Americans cannot stand the British grenadiers."