"To attack Boston."
"And take the risk?"
"Yes; and take the risk, which will prove less, I believe, that the risk incurred by continual inaction."
"Do you propose an immediate movement?"
"On the 4th of March, the anniversary of the 'Boston Massacre.' It is a good time to avenge that wrong."
On the 4th of March, 1775, the British troops, who were often insolent and overbearing to the citizens of Boston, were attacked and stoned by indignant parties. A brief contest followed, in which four Americans were killed and several wounded. This was called the "Boston Massacre."
"I hope that your movement will be successful, but it is a hazardous one," suggested one of the council. "An attack all along the line?"
"By no means," answered Washington. "The project is hazardous indeed, but that is inevitable. On the night of March 3 I propose to take possession of Dorchester Heights, throw up breastworks, and by the time the enemy can see the Heights in the morning, be prepared to hold the position."
"And if the whole British army attack us, what then?"
"General Putnam shall have a force of four thousand men on the opposite side of the town, in two divisions, under Generals Sullivan and Greene. At a given signal from Roxbury, they shall embark at the mouth of Charles River, cross under cover of three floating batteries, land in two places in Boston, secure its strong posts, force the gates and works at the neck, and let in the Roxbury troops. This, in case they make a determined attempt to dislodge us."