Don bit his lips and said nothing. He did not dare put into words the thoughts that had come crowding into his mind at sight of the only Redcoat for whom he had the least affection.
“There’s the grenadiers,” said Jud; “and the new regiment, the 35th and the 49th.”
“Yes, and there are the marines,” added Don. “They all look pretty fine, don’t they?”
“They look fine enough now,” replied Jud, “but just you wait till our men get a shot at them. You know how it was at Lexington and Concord.”
Don knew indeed, and the thought of that memorable day cheered him considerably.
By now most of the troops had assembled, and one regiment already was marching off. The boys hastened to follow along Common Street.
“My, but it’s hot! Whew!” cried Jud. “I’m most melted.”
“I am too,” Don grinned. “I’m glad I don’t have to carry a pack and a musket. Just listen to the firing now!”
Although the sun was high overhead, neither boy thought of being hungry. Down Queen Street they hurried and past the town hall into King Street. People were standing on street corners and watching from doors and windows as the King’s troops swung past over the rough street. Small boys, shouting loudly to one another, were hurrying along beside the splendid, well-disciplined columns; and dogs of all sizes were running here and there, barking shrilly. One little fellow, all black with white spots, ran diagonally through the column and then, turning swiftly, ran back again as if for the sole purpose of showing that he could do it.
The boys saw the regiment march out upon Long Wharf, where boats were waiting to carry them north toward Charlestown. Then they saw another and another regiment swing down King Street and move out upon the wharf.