It is enough to say, that a body of Soldiers, ultimately formidable, with their arms and other necessaries, traversed a path, in many places hitherto untrodden by human steps, of upwards 170 miles, interspersed with thickets, precipices, and swamps, and often obliged to carry, on their shoulders, the numerous batteaux attached to their little Army. Such were their sufferings, that many returned, but those, whom constancy supported in following their Chief up to the walls of Quebec, merit the highest encomiums which can be rendered to man for undaunted perseverance and steady fidelity.
We may often derive the most impressive examples from our enemy, and they ought never to be rejected. A British Soldier only needs the recital of any deed, in order to rival it.
Self interest obtained what patriotism and natural duty could not stimulate in the souls of the inhabitants within the town of Quebec. For some time, discord, and even disaffection were prevalent, both of which fiendly passions were absorbed in the venal virtue of defending their property, now threatened by the approach of General Arnold and his magic troops. All united in the cause of their King, and some Sailors and Marines, were landed from the ships in the river, to second their energies. Feeling himself unequal to a siege or a storm, Arnold fell back, and awaited the cast of better fortune.
It was soon after this that General Carleton arrived, who quickly adopted those measures which were worthy of himself and the imperious emergency.
One company of the 7th regiment, might be termed the only regular force under his command, his chief strength being in M'Lean's newly raised corps of Scotch Emigrants, and the associated bodies of English and French Volunteers.
To these a valuable addition was given of all the Marines belonging to the ships of war, and upwards of 400 Seamen, who had claims to a great share of merit for their steadiness and spirit through the whole train of this defensive service.
The works had scarcely been repaired, in the best manner that was possible, when General Montgomery, united to Arnold, having subdued, with little difficulty, the other fortresses of Canada, appeared in the sanguine and immediate hope of consummating his glory by also carrying its Capital.
His personal zeal, and the endurance of his troops during the bitter frosts of winter, were only equalled by a similar vigour in their comparative opponents.
Temporizing measures being but ill adapted for the season, or the occasion, and little suited to the intrepid genius of Montgomery, he followed its dictates, which were to rest the issue upon a general assault.