O'Hara; Or [1798.] [By W. H. Maxwell.] (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.1825 Excerpt: ... quate to effect the most important objects. Of the thousands on the hill, doubtless a great majority of their number were drawn thither by the novelty of the business. Some had collected from curiosity--more from compulsion--the prospect of good cheer had induced some--a hope of plunder had instigated others--one had been brought by his wife, and a second been persuaded by his neighbour--a few, however, came there seeking freedom, and freedom only; and many a breast in the crowd had devotion within it, to have filled a rank in the Pass of Thermopylae. These men, indeed, were to be dreaded: the overwhelming advantage of martial discipline did not deter them from striking for victory; and the alternative in defeat, the scaffold, had not terror to appal them from the bold attempt. As the afternoon approached, the rebel videttes came frequently in, announcing the march of the Royal army. Each fresh report of their advance had very contrary effects on the hearers. Some received it with cool, determined resolution; some with indifference; and others with evident alarm. A few dropping shots turned the eyes of all to the road by which the King's troops were expected. It was an interchange of fire between their videttes and a rebel outpost; the latter, although no pursuit was attempted, were rather flying than retreating to their friends. This unmilitarylooking proceeding, however, was observed by a young leader, who galloped down the hill, and rallying the fugitives, awaited on the road the nearer approach of the Royalists. In a few minutes their advanced guard, consisting of the Monaghan militia, and the flank companies of a Highland regiment, debouched from the thick hedges, which had till now concealed their march, and the rebels, skirmishing as they retiped, fe...