"Death is almost inevitable if you continue," said Dr. Craik. "Stop here until the violence of your fever abates, and then you can come up with Dunbar's rear division."
"I think you are unnecessarily alarmed, doctor," answered Washington. "In a few days I shall be all right. It will be a great trial to me to stop here and not advance with the army."
"It may prove a greater trial for you to advance," suggested Dr. Craik. "Rest and quiet may restore you speedily now, but it may be too late three days hence."
General Braddock also appealed to him.
"You are altogether too unwell to proceed, Colonel Washington," he said, "and you must not attempt it."
"But I would not miss being with you at the attack upon Fort Duquesne for five hundred pounds," replied Washington.
"And you will not if you stop here until you are better; but if you go on, you may be dead and buried by that time, or too sick to participate in the battle," was the general's wise answer.
"I will stop here if you will promise that I shall rejoin the army before an engagement," added Washington.
"I pledge you my word of honor, in the most solemn manner, that it shall be effected."