A third time they advance. But now the Americans do not answer the charge. There is good reason—the powder has given out! A great rush—and the redcoats have climbed over. But it is no easy victory even now, and there is no lack of bravery on the part of the Americans. With clubbed muskets they meet the invaders.
The British won the victory, but with great loss. “Many such,” said one critic, “would have cost them their army.”
On the other hand, the Americans had fought like heroes, and news of the battle brought joy to every loyal heart. Washington heard of it when on his way to take command of the army.
“Did the Americans stand fire?” was his first question.
“Yes,” was the answer.
“Then,” said he, “the liberties of the country are safe.”
Some Things To Think About
- Impersonating Paul Revere, tell the story of his famous ride. What do you think of him?
- Why did the British troops march out to Lexington and Concord?
- Imagine yourself at Concord on the morning of the battle, and tell what happened.
- Why did the Americans fortify Breed’s Hill? What were the results of the Battle of Bunker Hill?
- What did Washington say when he heard that the Americans had stood their ground in face of the British assault?
CHAPTER IV