Under Colonial Colors; A Tale of Arnold's Expedition in 1775 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1902. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XXXII CONCLUSION As the day drew toward its close it became evident to Henry that there were others of the prisoners who were at least aware of the project of which Simpson had informed him. There was a restlessness among the men, and the fact that neither of the bold and reckless young prisoners had been seen on deck for two or three hours increased his conviction that something was about to be done. The sun was low in the western sky when at last Simpson and Blair appeared on deck. They were both barefooted and clad only in the lightest of garments, but their dress attracted no attention from the guards, for the day was warm, and neither appeared to be aware of the other's presence, while both took pains to remain in the midst of the group of their fellows who had assembled near the bow. On board the transport were two huge Newfoundland dogs, the property of two of the sailors, who were each extremely jealous of the other's pet. Just how it happened no one afterwards could explain, but somehow both the dogs were called to the group of prisoners, and in a moment were engaged in a fierce fight. Prisoners and guards gathered quickly about the savage brutes, and shouts and cries and laughter were heard as the men encouraged the dogs to battle. In the midst of the confusion Simpson slipped quickly away from Henry's side, ran lightly to the rail and disappeared from sight. Henry, almost as strongly excited as his friend, longed to follow and at least be able to watch the desperate lad, but for the sake of his friend he remained where he was, though he was aware that Blair, too, had quickly disappeared. The snarling dogs still were struggling fiercely, and the men were still crowding about them, while the frantic owners of the "pets " were doing their ...