ARNOLD'S MARCH
FROM
CAMBRIDGE TO QUEBEC
BY
Ezra Dodge Hine^
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' « V ■ t c J t ■
« g ** » i I 41 I' t I
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I From the Historical Collections of the Essex Institute
Vol. XXXIII, 1897.]
Ube Salem Vteee
Saleh, Mass.
1898.
ARNOLD'S MARCH
FROM CAMBRIDGE TO QUEBEC.
BY EZRA DODGE HINE8.
" The hearts that beat one hundred years ago
Were players in a mighty symphony ;
Each lieard its separate i)art, no more : while we,
Who hear the solemn measures swell and flow
Confined in one majestic hymn, bestow
Upon the whole the name of history."
In Salem, on Fridiiy, June 17, 1774, the session of the
General Court is drawing to a close. Before the clay is
(lone, md the vvoi k is finished, Samuel Adams, that staunch
patriot, has at last succeeded in securing the election of
delegates to attend the meeting of the First Continental
Congress, to he held in Philadel})liia in September, 1774.
One of the delegates thus chosen was John Adams, who
EurrouiAL NOTE.— Tliere are local traditions connucted with thin famous march
whicli would well repay the lal)or ot tracing out. It lias alwaj-K been said that
Arnold dined with a friend in Salem on his waveast. Ue seems to have leftCani-
lirldfje about a day behind the last division of his troops. Naturally the main
body would not march throu;rli Salem on account of the serious ol)struction
offered to the movement of a l)ody of troops by thi^ Beverly Ferry. But the Gen-
eral, with nieml)ers of his stalf, inijrht very well hiive done so, for Arnold liad
friends in Saleni. The Mariiuis de CliaHtellux records passinj; the ferry from
Beverly to Salem in 1782 " in two Hat bottomed boids containing' ea(;b six horses"
(K. I. Hist, Coll., Vol. XXX, ])\). i'4-5) and Felt (Annals of Salem, Vol. II, p. 520)
says that " a detachment ot Arnold's force, destined to Canada, took dinner at
Salem, September 14."
The lirst battalion wliicli moved out from tlie (;anip at Oam)>ridj?e on the after-
noon of Wednesday, September i:^, marched tluouuli Slalden and Lynn, and
bivouaclvcd, the second niKlit, in Upper Beverly. .And it is thoufiht probable
that the oiien jdain to the west of the iMeetln^"lIouse, the (;hipman Parsonage,
and the Baker Tavern, was the spot selected. The second battalioii left Cam-
bridiic on the morning of Thui'siiay and halted for the niglit at I'anvcrs. A
level tract to the eiist of, and just ofif Oanvcrs Scpuire lias been pointed out hv
traiiition as their camping ground. With the growing activity of our day iii
anti(|uaiian research, it is not unlikely that private letters and journals "may
come to light which will locate these interesting events beyond a peradventure.
The press of the last century, witli its provoking reticence in matters of detail,
offers little assistance. If our modern newspapers could borrow a little of this
reticence and lend to the earlier chroniclers something of the superabundant
loquacity of our times, a liappy mean would seem to be estaldished.
(242)
■VUM^^i^^^
243 Arnold's march from oambridgk to Quebec.
afterwards became the second President of the United
States. Three days hiter, John Adams, on his journey
from Boston to Ipswicii, where he goes to attend Court,
tarries in Danvers. He remains tliere over nijjht in an
inn or ordinary l<ept hy one John Piemont, whicli stood
upon Danvers square.
Adams, before he retired for the night, wrote in his
diary the following words — words whicl), his biograplier
says, are tlie first that we have from him, in rehition to
his feelings about his election as a delegate to the coming
Continental convention. He wrote as follows :
" Monday, June 20, 1774.
At Plemont's in Dnnvers, bound for Ipswich. Tliere is a new and
grand scene open before me; a Congress. This will be an assembly
of the wisest men npon tlie continent, who are Americans in princi-
ple, that is, against taxation of Americans by authority of Parliament
I feel myself unequal to this business. A more extensive knowledge
of the realm, the colonies, and of commerce, as well as of law and
policy, is necessary, than I am master of. What can be done? Will
it be expedient to propose an annual Congress of committees? to pe-
tition? Will it do to petition at all? — to the King? — to the Lords?
— to the Commons? What will such consultations avail? Delibera-
tions alone will not do. We must petition or recommend to the As-
semblies to petition, or, — [and here is a pause, — afterwards he adds]
The ideas of the people are as various as their faces. One thinks,
no more petitions, — former having been neglected and despised;
some are for resolves, spirited resolves, and some are for bolder
counsels.
I will keep an exact diary of my journey, as well as a journal of
the proceedings of Congress."
These were bold, brave words, suggestive of the hour;
written by a man who was destined, so soon, to stand as
a bright and shining light, in the troublous times then so
near at hand.
When the time came, John Adams was on hand and
attended the convention in Philadelphia, where he per-
formed excellent service for his country. He was after-
Arnold's march from gambridqe to Quebec. 244
wards elected a delegate to the second Continental Con-
gress, held in Philadel[)hia, May, 1775, and while attend-
ing this Congress he, on Juno 14, 1775, performed a very
signal service for his countiy. Discussing the question
respecting the artny in Canihridgo then i)esieging the
British troops in Boston, he made a motion, "that Con-
gress would adopt the Army at Caml)ridge, and appoint
a General or Commander-in-chief ; that thougli this was
not the proper time to nominate a General, yet he had
no hesitation to declare, that he had but one gentleman in
his mind for that important command, and that was a
gentleman from Virginia, who was among us, and very
well known to all of us, a gentleman whose skill and
experience as an officer, whose independent fortune, great
talents, and excellent umversal character, would conunand
the approhaticm of all America, and unite the cordial
exertions of all the colonies, better tiian any other person
in the Union." There was no mistaking whom Adams
meant. All eyes were inmiediately turned upon Washing-
ton who, in his modesty, letired to the Library. On the
next day, June 15, 1775, George Washington was chosen
by ballot, unanimously, by the Continental Congress, to
be General and Commander-in-chief of the American
army. Wise men ! Wise choice ! On the assembling
of Congress the next morning the President, John Han-
cock, informed Washington officially of his appointment.
The acceptance of the same by Washington was in brief
words, but throughout full of modesty and humility, show-
ing that he desired to do his duty faithfully and well, but
at the same time fearing the responsibility thus laid up(m
him to be too great. Events which followed show that the
choice of the Congress was a wise one.
Washington's commission as General and Commander-
in-chief was dated June 19, 1775, two days after the
245 Arnold's makgh trom Cambridge to qukbkc.
Buttle of Blinker Hill, iiiid soon after ho departed for
Ciiinl>rid<;e, whore he arrived July 2, 1775. Tin' next
day, July ii, uiuU-r the "Great Klin " near (^anilMid<;e
eonimoii, which is still Htandiii<r, and now known as the
" Wasliin<^ton Kim," General \Vashin<j;toii, in brief hiit
well chosen words, took formal eommain] of the American
army. The battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill had
been fought. The cause of Massachusetts had become
the common cause of all the colonies, and troops were
now hastening to Cambridge from all parts of the country.
Soon various plans and projects were proposed, and
among others, "The Expedition to Quebec," or "The
March of Arnold from Gambridge toQuel)ec."
To muleratand better what is to follow, the condition
of Canada, in 1775, should be stated.
Canada, like the other American colonies, was, at this
time, under British rule. With the exception of a few
yeius, Canada had, previous to 1759, been under French
rule ; but, since 1759, when the English conquered Canada,
it had been an English colony. In so far Canada was
not unlike the American colonies on the south. Since the
English had come into possession of Canada there had
been a great deal of discontent and dissatisfaction. Most
of the inhabitants, especially of that portion which is now
called Quebec, were French people. It was of course
obiu)xious to them to be sulyected to English rule.
There were, however. Englishmen among them but their
number was small in comparison with the large number
of inhabitants. After the conquest, the Canadians were
placed at first under military rule, and governed by
English laws. Now, in 1774, the wise heads in the Eng-
lish government, seeing with alarm the results which at-
tended the severe, unjust and unrighteous laws inflicted by
them upon the American colonies to the south of Canada,
AKNOLD's march from CAMBRIDGE TO QUEBEC. 246
and fearing that Caiuida n)i<;ht bo induced to join them, and
if so, that then English rule in America vvouhl ho lost for-
ever, — decided that soniotinng must l)o done to satisfy and
ploaso the (>anadians, and thus keep thorn on good terms
with the Home Government. The result of all this was the
passage of the "Quebec Act,*' which was a very signifi-
cant act. It gave to the Canadians, among other things,
— representation, — the veiy thing that the other ("olonies
liad desired for so lonj; a time.
Tlie act provided "that Canadian subjects professing the
Catholic faith might be called to sit in the Council ; that
the Catholic clergy with the exception of the regular orders
should bo secured in the enjoyments of their professions,
and of their tithes from all those who professed their re-
ligion ;" and there were also other provisions. It will
roiidily be seen in this Act, there is quite an advance for
the Canadians from military rule, and while all may not
be statesmen, yet the ordinarily intelligent man, know-
ing the facts, cannot fail to see in all this, that no great
love for the Canadians prompted the Act, but rather the
necessity existing of something being done, and that some-
thing quickly, so that the English might be able to hold
the Canadians, a>id especially Quebec, the " Git)raltar" of
the new world. The Englishmen in Canada were bitter
and indignant that the Home Government should pass
such an Act and they, with many of the Indian tribes, were
very friendly to the American colonies.
It is seen that in September, 1775, there was a kindly
feeling shown to the American colonies by many of
the Canadians ; more than this, the country was not very
well guarded, many of the troops having been sent to
Boston. There were also great military stores in Quebec.
There was a strong feeling that the Canadians were many
of them in sympathy with the colonies and would join
with them against the English.
247 arnold'h march fhom oambkidok to qurbro.
OAUSK or THR KXI'KDITION.
In 1775, uf'ter tlio capture of Tie()ii(loi()<;ii and (-rown
Point, Congress Imd conccivod the idea of ohtainin«^ pos-
HOHsion of Canada, and tliuii nnitin^ tlio whole continent
in oj)po8iti(Ui to Great Hritain. This phin was presented
to Conj^ress hy Benedict Arnold and others, and after
Washini^ton took command of the army, he was stron<j;ly
impressed with the advisability of such a movement, and
General Schuyler had already been selected to lead an
army into C.mada by way of the Northern lakes. Bene-
dict Arnold now proposed that an expedition slu)nld start
from Caml)rid<ie, jjo to Newl)uryport, embark there for
the month of the Kennebec, i)roceed throu»;h the wilder-
ness of Maine, then over the Canadian country to Quebec,
and capture that city by surprise.
Congress also sent a conunittee to Gc^neral Washington,
to confer with him in relation thereto.
TROOPS COMPOSING THE KXPEDITION.
Sept. 8, 1775, the foUowing order was issued by the
Commander-in-chief.
"The detachment going under the command of Col. Arnold to be
forthwith taken off the roll of duty, and to march this evening to
Cambridge Common, where touts and everything necessary are pro-
vided for their reception. The rifle company at lloxbury, and those
from Prospect Hill, to march early to-morrow morning to join the
above detachment. Such ofllcers and men as are talten from General
Green's brigade, for the above detachment, are to attend the muster of
their respective regiments to-morrow morning at 7 o'clk., upon Pros-
pect Hill; when the muster is finished, they are forthwith to rejoin
the detachment at Cambridge."
The troops were arranged in two battalions and were
commanded respectively by Lt. Col. Christopher Greene,
of Rhode Island, and Lt. Col. Roger Enos, of Connecticut.
AHNOLD'h MAKCII from CAMDKIDGB to QlJiSIlKC. 248
Tiio first l»ittalion hiul hovum (;(>ini)!U)ie8, mid tho Hec^oiid
hIx c<)in|)iuiiuM. Tliuru whh one Hurirtton and one cluiplairi
for l)utli iiattulions, and tho whole dotachtueiit waH under
the coiiiniaiid of Col. Honedict Arnold.
DEI'AIITURE OF THK FIRHT BATTALION FROM CAMBRIDGE.
On the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 13, 1775, there
is a connnotion near Ciinihriil^e common. The first part
of this little army is tihout to .start upon its march. It h
to he a lonj;, a feaiful, and a perilous journey, hut it is
well they know not what is hefore them. Had they known,
it would have made their stout hearts (piail. They do not
know and so they start off with li<(ht hearts ami cheerful
steps. They soon cross the old hridfi^e over tho Mystic
river, after passin;^ from Caml)rid^e thronj^h Clmrlcstown
and, journeying alon;jf the old road in Mcdford, finally reach
Maiden in tho early evening. Here they find a conven-
ient spot, and spreading their white tents encamp for the
night. On the morrow they resume their march, con-
timiing along tho old Boston road, and hefore noon reach
Lynn. Realizing the importance of the undertaking that
these men have entered upon, it is desired that the readers
of this story hecome ac(|uaii»t(Ml with them, an<l so hy
word-illustrations, they will he presented as they make a
short halt in their march.
Marching down the side of the troops, as they have
halted, will he seen a man, who, the moment the eye rests
upon him, will he recognized as a bravo fellow. It is
Christopher Greene. lie is a Rhode Island man, who,
previous to entering the army, was a farmer. By his
looks it is seen that he is a very intelligent man. He
has had tho confidence of his fellow-citizens in a remark-
able degree. He is one of the many men who took a bold
249 Arnold's MARfH from Cambridge to Quebec.
stand ajjjiinat the King, and his counsel tended to encourage
measures for military defence. Early in 1775 he is com-
missioned captain in a regiment organized by the General
Assembly for the Continental service. He marches to
Caml)ridge, and here is selected as rnuitenant-colonel, and
placed in command of this poition of Arnold's army, and
now is en route for Quebec. He is a man of sterling worth.
Yonder is seen an oflScer conversing very earnestly
with some of the patriots gathered about him. His name
is Timothy Bigelow. He is from Worcester, Mass. He
is the major of this detacliment. See him as he moves
about — a very noticeable personage. He is very tall,
more than six feet in height, and of fine personal a[)pear-
ance. It will be observed that his bearing is erect and
martial, and his step niost graceful.
In early life a blacksmith, at the outbreak of the Revo-
lution he is in command f)f a company of minute men.
Before the Revolution, he was a member of the Whig
club which met in Boston, and was the associate of
Warren and Otis. Heconmiands a company in Col. Jona.
Ward's regiment. Under his unwearied instruction the
company attain such excellence in militaiy exercises as
to draw from AVashiuirton on the first review : "This is
discipline indeed!" He possesses a vigorous intellect,
ardent temperament, and a warm and generous heart.
Look at him again and again. Rememl)er him in the
future.
Look, now ! and behold a rifle company under comniMnd
of Cai)t. Matthew Smith. This company have come all
the way from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to do service for
their country ; they are picked men — all large fellows —
six-footers. See how they are dressed ! Each man has
a rifle barrelled gun, a tomahawk, or small axe, and a
long knife, usually called a scalping knife, which serves
HIST. COLL. VOL. XXXIII 16*
Arnold's march from cambkidgb to Quebec. 250
for all purposes in the woods. Hla under dress — by no
means in a military style — is covered by a deep ash-
colored hunting shirt, legirins and moccasins, if the latter
could be procured. A savage dress, indeed! Such men
would naturally carry terror with them. It will be ob-
served that the ca|)tain of this co.npany, Captain Smith, is
a good-looking fellow and has the air of a soldier but, as
we listen, he is found to be quite illiterate and very talka-
tive. One cannot fail, however, in glancing at him, to be
impressed with this fact — that he is a man who, if occasion
require, will be a biave fellow ; and in his company,
walking al)out, are noticed certain men, who answer in the
roll call to these names : James Crouch, Richard Dixon,
Robert McClure, Lt. Archibald Steele, Lt. Michael Simp-
son, John Joseph Henry, John Harris, whose father was
the founder of Ilarrisburg, John Shaefter the drum-
mer, and Sergeants Thomas Boyd, Robert Cunningham,
and Robert Dixon, and privates Jolm Tidd and John
McKonkey. They will be heard from a^^ain.
Not far from this company is another company of riflemen
coming also from Pennsylvania (Cumberland County).
Their dress, it will be seen, is like that of the company just
described ; it will be noticed that an officer is moving about
among his men conversing pleasantly with thetn. He
is their beloved Capt. Wm. Hendricks. . One is attracted
to him at once. One has to look up he is so tall, but in
so doing the eyes look upon a man of mild and beautiful
countenance, behind which it is felt is a soul animated by
a genuine spark of heroism.
Go down the line still farther and here will be found
a Rhode Island n)an with his company, — Capt. Samuel
Ward. He relates that when hostilities coimnenced he
was just out of college, that he joined the Rhode Isl-
and army of observation and was appointed captain. He
251 Arnold's march from cambridgk to quebeo.
soon left for Ciiinbridge. His youth surprises — no won-
der — he is the youngest officer in the expedition.
Next in line is Captain John Tophani, also a Rhode
Islander, with his company. Hearing the news of the
Battle of Lexington he raises a company and marches to
Cambridge ; and hero he is with his company bound for
Quebec.
Here also, as one goes about, will be noticed three other
companies commanded respectively by Captains McCobb,
Jonas Hubbard, a Worcester man, and Cai)tain Simeon
Thayer. These three companies with those previously
descril)ed make up the first battalion of Arnold's detach-
ment, which battalion having halted for a brief time, the
command is given to resume their march — the drums beat,
the fifes play, and they move on, passing over the road
to Danvers, and at nightfall reach Beverly, where they
halt and encamp for the night. Friday, this battalion
marches on through Wenham, Ipswich, RowU'y and New-
bury, reaching Newburyport in the evening.
Not long after this first battalion of troops has passed, Ihe
sound of music is again heard, and the remainder or second
battalion of Arnold's army — its rear guard — is in sight.
Watch them as they pass along in their haste to oveitake
those gone before them, their companions in this new
and untried march.
Marching at their head is noticed their lieutenant col-
onel, Roger Enos, a man ot fine presence ; he is from
Connecticut, and has seen service in the French war. He
served as a captain in Israel Putnam's regiment in 1764.
Notice the major with these troojjs as he passes by. He
also is a native of Connecticut. He has always been a
military man ; is just the man to undertake this march.
It will be interesting to know something about him.
Return Jonathan Meigs. His name was given him by
Arnold's march from Cambridge to Quebec. 252
his father, — surely nothing strange in that. Eminently
proper when the story is told. His father when a young
man, like many another young man before and since, went
a-courting. He paid his attentions to a fair Quakeress,
but was unsuccessful and she repeatedly rejected him,
saying, " Nay, Jonathan, I respect thee much hut camiot
marry thee." But, on his last visit, as he slowly mounted
his horse, the relenting lady beckoned to him to stop,
saying, " Ret iirn Jonathan! Return Jonathan!" These,
the happiest words he had ever heard, he gave as a name
to his first-born son. Although named Return, there is
no return about him when once started on a mission. His
face is set towards the north, — towards Quebec. He
means to reach the goal.
Look ! now, another rifle company is passing rapidly
along ; this time not from Pennsylvania but from farther
south, from Virginia — from the valley of the Shenandoah.
How suggestive the name ! Just observe their captain,
that remarkable specimen of m man, Daniel Morgan ; of
whom Henry says, " ho was a large, strong bodied person-
age, whose appearance gave the idea history has left us of
Belisarius — kind in manners and, where attached, truly
afli'ectionate." He is six feet hi<jh and a man of <;reat
strength. It is said no man i)erformed more efficient ser-
vice in the Revolution than Morgan. This man was a team-
ster in Braddock's army and, for some offence committed
against a British officer, was condemned to receive five
hundred lashes, although he always jocosely afLrmed the
drummer miscounted and gave him but four hundred and
ninety-nine. One can see by his looks that he is a very
daring man. He bears upon his person the effects of en-
counters with the Indians. After leaving the army he
settled down as a farmer, and was rapidly acquiring prop-
erty when the Revolution broke out.
253 Arnold's march from Cambridge to qurbec.
He hears of the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill,
and no longer can he remain in his Virginia home. He
immediately sets about to raise a rifle ccmipany and to de-
part for the scene of war ; and, in less than a week after-
wards, he had his company complete, and was on the march
to Cambridge. In battle he was a fearful man, and fought
desperately ; his men loved him, and their affection was
his reliance.
With him of course, are his riflemen. Mark them as
they pass along. They are the famed corps from the
Shenandoah valley and the mountains round about. It is
said that the drum and life, and even the sergeant's hard
dollars on the drum head would not have enlisted a man
of his corps. It was like the devotion of a Highland
clan to its chief — Morgan was the chief. When Morgan
cried "come, boys! who's for the camp at Cambridge?" the
moinitaineers tinned out to a man. With blankets buck-
led to their backs, their baggage, a supply of food in their
pouches, scanty as the al)origiues would take for a long
march — they grasped their rifles and strode away to the
north, a band of young giants for the combat of liberty.
The dress of these riflemen was somewhat different from
that of the Pennsylvania riflemen, — take notice as they
pass along.
White or brown linen hunting shirt, ornamented with a
fringe and secured by a belt of wampum in which a knife
or tomahawk is stuck ; leggins and moccasins ornamented
in Indian fashion with beads and brilliantly-dyed porcu-
pine quills. On the pait of their shirts covering the
breast are the words of Henry, "Liberty or Death." A
round hat completes their costume which, it must be con-
ceded, is to say the least warlike and at the same time
picturesque. Quite a sight for the people of those days !
This is the Captain Morgan, and this the rifle company,
Arnold's makch from Cambridge to Quebec. 254
whom Washington met as he rode about Cambridge to in-
spect the intrenchments. Morgan sahited his commander-
in-chief with the warm words, " From the right bank of the
Potomac, General !" " From the Potomac ! then they are
my old neighbors." He must shake hands with them, and
the brave Washington dismounts, goes along the lines
and, with tears upon his cheeks, shakes hands with the
hardy huntsmen of the Shenandoah.
Following, in quick succession, are the companies
commanded respectively by Captains Henry Dearborn,
Merchant, Williams, Goodrich and Scott. Dearborn was
a noted fellow both before and afterwards.
There is a volunteer for this expedition who in marching
by claims one's attention. Who can he be, this young
man, a mere stripling, only nineteen years of age? He
is a grandson of the great theologian Jonathan Edwards ;
he is destined when a man to be a Vice President of the
nation which is to be. He is none other than Aaron Hurr
— the gay, the handsome, the rollicking young Burr.
At the time of the breaking out of the Revolutionary
War, he was at Litchfield, Conn., studying law. The
drums aroused him. He writes to his college friend Ogden,
urging him to come quickly to Litchfield, and start with
him for the seat of war. Ogden replied he could not at
present, but while waiting for Ogden came the news of the
Battle of Bunker Hill. Burr could wait no longer, and
mounting his horse he rode in haste to Elizabethtown
where he aided Ogden, and together they made their way
to the camp at Cambridge. After a while in camp he is
very sick with fever. One day tossing in his bed he over-
heard Ogden and the others talking in the next room con-
cerning this expedition. He immediately sat up in bed,
and declared his intention to join in the march. Ogden
and his friends remonstrated, but Burr, feeble as he was,
255 Arnold's march from Cambridge to Quebec.
bengal! to dres8 himself. His comrades stood aghast at his
actions. But no argument, no i)ersuafsion, could move him,
when his mind was made up. Go he would — go he did
(and here he is in Lynn on his way to Quebec). We shall
hear from him again later on. With him in thf proces-
sion as it moves along will be noticed Ogden and also
Rev. Samuel Spring, the chaplain of this Jiimy, both of
whom had been in college with Burr.
This second ])attalion follow along in the wake of the
first ; encamp Thursday night in Danvers, Friday night
in Newbury, reaching Newbury[)ort Saturday morning.
And now let us change the scene. We iire in Cam-
bridge-town. We observe two men in very earnest con-
versation. Are they recognized? One of them is surely
known. He is the commander-in-chief of America's
braves, the beloved Washington ; and the other, a short
handsome man, of a florid complexion. One must by
this time have anticipated who he is. It is the most im-
portant man of all in this expedition to Quebr ", — Benedict
Arnold. Would that we might hear Washin^ , )n give him
his instructions concerning this great undertaking which
he has chosen him to command. Washington has the
greatest confidence in Colonel Arnold, and feels that he is
intrusting him with a mission which he hopes and believes
will be of the most important service to the colonies. lUit
now the hour has come for parting. There is no record
of just what was said, but it requires but little imagination
to believe that, as the great chief looked into the face of
Arnold, it must have occurred to him, that ere they should
clasp hands again, great events would happen ; and with
sad, yet tender feelings, feelings of hope and cour-
age, he must have said good-bye and wished him success
in what he considered would be a momentous undertaking.
'Tis over, now, and Arnold on the morning of Friday,
AKNOI,1I)'h MAKOH from CAMHKIUGE to gUKBKC. 2i)6
Sept. ir)th, mounts his liorso, a Hne one too, — for he knows
a f^ood horse, and (loos he not \v(!ll know how "to t.rn
and wind a Hery Pegasus, and vviteh the worhl with noble
horsemanship?" — and with liis aids hastens to Newbury-
port, whither his troops have preceded him.
The troops remain in Newburvport three or four (hiys.
Sunday, the 17th, many of them attend church services
in the Old South Piesbyterian Churcii, still standing.
The chaplain of the exj)editi()n, Rev. Samuel Spring, dis-
courses to them from the text : " Kxcej)t thy presence go
with us, carr}' us not uj) hence." Burr afterwards spoke
of this sermon, with high commendation.
Tuesday morning, Sept. lilth, the whole detachment
leave Newburyport on ten transports, and in the early af-
ternoon sail for the mouth of the Ivennebec. \N''''le the
transports containing the troops are sailing along ^ .c coast,
and before they reach the Kennebec river, an ei)isode nuist
be related concerning Burr, which hapi)eried while he
was at Newburyport.
Timothy Edwards, his uncle and his guardian (for Hurr
it must be remem})ered is a minor), is greatly exercised over
Burr's departure ; so much so, that he desi)atches a
messenger to Newburyport with orders to bring him
back — peacefully if he can, forcibly if he nuist. He
finds Burr, and hands him a letter from his uncle, which
commands his return. Reading it, he looks coolly up at
the messenger, and asks the following characteristic
question :
"Suppose I refuse to go, how do you expect to take me
back? If you were to attempt it l)v force, I would have
you hung up in ten minutes." The messenger looks
frightened — l)ut he has his lesson well. The first letter
failing of its mission — as it most certainly had — he had
but to produce a second letter tor the inspection of the
257 ahnold'k mahcii fuom camuuidqe to qukhkc.
youno; iiihu. This was riither more tender in its senti-
ments than the fir-tt ; it iiIho eiieU)se(l some money. Hurr
was moved — his feeliii<;s, l>ut not his resolution. Tenia
flowed. Ho informed his unele that he <_Duld not now
retire from a scheme in whicjj his jieart and, as he sn[)-
posed, his honor was embarked. The messenj^er departed
to meet the nnele, and Hmi hastened onward to Quebec.
The troops are now at the mouth of the Kennebec
river, and thus far the journey of these brave men has
not been an arduous one, but now is about to be com-
menced a march wliich, for courage, clear jrrit, bohlness,
bravery, patience, sul!"erin<r, endurjuice and fortitude,
under the most trying, and at times painful circumstances,
stands we believe without a ])arallel in the world's history.
A march undertaken without an extensive knowledge of
the country through which it led ; a march not over good
roads nor through a fruit I'nl land ; a march the issue of
which was involviul in more than ordinary doubt; surely
a most wonderful march.
Nothing daunted, the brave army make their way north-
ward — now floating in their bateaux upon the Kenne-
bec ; now, owing to the rapid currents and falls of the
river, leaving the streams, and with their boats and bag-
gage marching on the land, around these rapids; again
taking to the river, soon to leave it for the woods and
marshes, and so on till the Dead River is reached ; up
that stream, leaving it to pass up its side, and again glid-
ing in bateaux adown the stream.
Over the mountains they go and down the valleys, then
to another stream, and now pushing on and on till the
heights are reached — the high lands separating the wa-
ters running south into the Atlantic Irom those running
northward into the St. Lawrence — reaching Chaudiere
pond; around this, then on and ofl" the Chaudiere River,
HI8T. COLL. VOL. XXXIII 17
Arnold's maucii fuom cammkidok to giiKBKC. 2i>ii
mostly off, on, on, thnm<jrli llio Cii.i.idiim ('oiintry, till
tinHlly, — all this time toot-soius woiiry, neiirly fuiniHlK.'d
with hnn«;t>r, cold — ehilliHl to tlie very bono, son ftini*: . not
knowinj^ vvhotluir lifo wiis worlii th(i sfi-ivin<? for, and death
seeniin<j^ iniinin(Mit, thi-<)n<;li trials, h-oul)l(>s and ti'il)nla-
tions many, at last they reach Point Levi on the St. Law-
rence, opposite and in sijj^ht of (^n(dioc, the object of their
lonjL^ and weary march. Not discourajj^cd, hnt brave, hope-
ful and trustful, ready at any time to cross the river, and
with their bold conunander Arnold at the head, they cross
the St. Lawrence and manih against the eitadel of (Que-
bec, now aseendin": the |)ath made immortal by the *jlori-
OU8 .Mchievement of the gallant Wolfe ; now upon the plains
of Abraham demanding the surrender of the town ; re-
pidsed, but not discouraged, r<.'treating up the river, to
Point au Trembles, wjiitlng here, to l>e joined later by the
forces under the command of the brave Montgomery, and
jointly with them to suffer defeat — Montgomery dying,
A.rnold wounded — and of these brave men many killed,
others wounded, and some prisoners — this is a synopsis of
their march and experiences, and it is so full of thrilling and
daring exploits, the best account which can be given is to
relate, in the words of those who took part, some of the
events of tluvt wonderful march.
Having arrived at the mouth of the Kennebec, the fleet
sail up the river to the ship yard of Colonel Colborn,
where the vessels were left, and tin; bateaux provided,
with which to ascend the river. The bateaux were built
at Agry's point about two miles below what is now Gardi-
ner (then called Pittston) and the residence of Colonel
Colborn, and here arrangements were made i'or the. 'idvance
through the wilds of Maine, and the Canadian wilderness
to Quebec. Arnold's arrangements were as follows : he
thought it advisable to send as a vanguard an oflBcer and
251) aunoli/h MAurii from cambkidok to Quebec.
sevni men — for the purpose of iisccrtiilnin}^ luid marking
the [)iilh8 which were used by th<* Ituliiinfi, iit the numer-
ous carrying phices in the wilderness, towjirds the head
of the river, and also to ascertain the course of the river
Chaudiere.
The oflScer chosen by Arnold was Archibald Steele,
a lieutenant in Matthew Smith's company of riflemen.
Arnold allowed him to select his men, and he chose the
following: Jesse Wheeler, George Merchant and James
Clifton, of Morgan's company of riflemen ; Robert Cun-
ningham, Thomas Boyd, John Tidd and John McKonkey
of Captain Smith's compiuiy of riflemen ; John Joseph
Henry, also a member of Smith's con?i)any, not quite
seventeen years of age, and two guides, Jeremiah Getchel
and John Ilorne. They proceeded in two birch-biirk
canoes, their guides l)eing acquainted with the river, as far
as the great carrying place.
The tirst canoe bore Ave men', with their arms and bag-
gage, one barrel of pork, one bag of meal, and two hun-
dred weight of biscuit. The other canoe carried seven
men, their arms, baggage and provisions.
On Saturday, the 23d day of September, in the evening,
they arrive at Fort Halifax, which stands at the junction
of the Sebasticook river with the Kennebec river. Hallo-
well was then the name of the town, now Augusta. From
here they travel on and in a few days reach Norridge-
wock falls. After passing the falls of Norridgewock,
they ascend the river rapidly, blazing every carrying
place, thus making a route for those who follow. Friday,
the 29th of September, they arrive at the great carrying
place. The distance across to the Dead river is from
twelve to fourteen miles. Reaching this point their
guides informed them that they were not acquainted far-
ther — so after this they found their way as best they
AKNOLO'S MARCH KKOM (lAMBHIDOK TO QUE»KC. 2()()
might. By journoyingrt Inird, pcriloiiK, diHcournging und
Ht tiiiieH wt?II nigh fatal, on Simchiy, OcIoImm- 8th, this
party roachiMl the height of land, which dividcH the
vvateiH of New Enghind from those of CJanada. On that
day they reached a lake ^*un•oun<l«'d by high and craggy
nionntains. At 8 o'clk, they catne to th(( extreme end of
the tiflh and last lake and on this lake ohlained a full
view of those hills, which were tluMi, and are now, called
the height of land. They hnrry ashore, draw ont their
canoes, and cover them with leaves and l>rusli-woo<l. This
done, with their arms in their hands and their provi>ions
in their pocikets, they make a race across the mountain by
tin Indian path, easily ascertainable, until th(\y arrivt; upon
the bank of Chaudiere river. This was the end (»f Ihcii'
desires. To discover and know the course of this river,
was the extent of their orders ; beyond this, they had
nothing to do.
And now, standing at the foot of a high pine, Steele
usked if any one could climb a tree. Cunningham offered
— climbed the tree, and from the top discerned the course
of the river and even gazed upon the Lake Chaudiere,
distant fourteen or fifteen miles. Now the party, having
accomplished that for which they set out, commenced their
return march to meet the on-coming main army. To show
some of the hardshii)s encountered by this brave band of
pioneers, let there be related one or two of their expe-
riences on their return to the main army. Their provis-
ions nearly out, and they nearly famishing, knowing not
what to do : — finally, one of the i)arty shot a small duck.
At night gathering around their camp fire, they anxiously
discussed the question how this duck and their little pit-
tance of remaining food could be most effectually used to
prolong life. They decided to boil the duck in their camp
kettle, each man putting in his last bit of pork, and each
marking his own by running through it a small wooden
261 AUNOT.D'h MAIiCIl FIIOM rAMIUtlDnR TO QllKHKC.
nkewer, miukod with Iuh own priviitr murk. Tlio luoth
so lUiuio w'liM to be all tlu) Clipper tho poor followH had, re-
serving the l)<)ihi<l porU tor hreaUt'iiMt, iind tho diu-k to ho
divlihul and laid by. " .My app('til(\" Hays IltMiry, "was as
ravLMiouH aH a wolf, l)ut tho rosolution to take no more
than tho broth was kopt." KiHin<^ early tho no.xt niorninj?
oaoh man took hi.s mouthful of pork and breakfast was ovor.
Tho duck was then soparatod into ton parts, and dividod
in tho huntoi's usual way ; — that is, ono of tho party,
turninji^ hi.s back ; and thon, Stoolo askod of tho man
whose back was turned to the fragnuMits, " Whoso shall
this be V" The unm answered, nanung one of the party.
Ilj'ury says his share of the duck was one of the thij;hs.
Tho day wore away, the men hastenin;:; on, tho duck was
eaten, and tho party, tired out, encamped when ni<rht came
to sleep. Kisin<r next niorninj^ they resumed their march
with not a morsol of food. Travollin<i: all the weary day
they lay down aj!;ain supi)orles8.
ilonry also says that tho next day, tryinj; to hurry on,
they ran their canoo against a partially sunken tree, which
tore open the bark from stem to stern. Delayed some
hours for repairs, and utterly exhausted with hunger and
fatigue, and the main party some distance ahead, — they
began to despair. He says " the thought came that the
Almighty had destined us to die of hunger in the wilder-
ness ; — the tears fell from my eyes as I thought of my
mother and family in their far-off home. But it was not
designed that wo should thus perish, for soon was heard
the sharj) crack of the riHo, followed by a shout and a
huzza and, pushing forward, we saw, to our great joy,
a moose deer struggle from the water, and fall upon the
bank. We were saved. Tho forest shores echoed with
our shouts of exultation, as the whole party gathered
around their game. Kindling a tire, we feasted."
Another story about Shieffer the drummer is told. He
AUNOLDV MAHCII FIIOM CAMHUIIXtK TO giJKHRC. 2(!2
wiiM v(iry noar wif^hti'd, and llciiry mxys tlio lau^hiiijj ntook
of th« company. In hoiuc pliucM wlion' limy would crosH
nivituvs l»y Hto|>|)iri<x tVoni oiki Io^ to aiiotlior, poor Slm'U'er
would very often tall, dnini and all, Ix'twccMi tlio loj;.s
and into the water, uiucii to the aiuusenuMit of the hoI-
dierrt ; hut notwithstanding!^ all thin, and HonietinieH he-
in^j; nearly .starved, and at other tiintvs alinont naked, he
horo his drum unharmed l>y all its jostlin^s, safely to
(^uehee, while many others, hale and hearty, died in the
wilderness.
Ijet us now return to Koit Western, aiul see what
has happened to the main army, liy the 2.')th of Sep-
tember, the troops had all reached tin' fort, and here
Arnold decides that the troops shall march in four divis-
ions, and Monday, the 2')th, the first division, consistinjif
of the three companieH of ritlomen, starts for (Quebec; the
next day ColoneKiri'en, with three companies of nmsUet-
uien, nets out for the North ; and the following; day,
Wednesday, Meijj^s, with the thlid division of the army,
conaistiiif^ of four companies of nniskctmen, marches for-
ward, and after him (Jolonel lOnos with three companies
of musketmen C()mprl.sln<? the fourth division, start along
upon their journey, l)rin<>;in^ up the rear. Each of the
four divisions took with them forty-tivo days' provisions.
After seeing them dei)art, — the lust boat upon the river, —
Arnold steps into his bark canoe and paddled by Indians
shoots rapidly ahead of the rear division.
The route is to the third carrying i)lace up the Kenne-
bec, tirst to Fort Halifax at the junction of the Sebas-
ticook with the Kennebec; here they found two block
houses, and a hirge barrack eiuloscd with a })icket fort.
After leaving this place the men had to wade in the water
sometimes up to their chins, which of course was very un-
comfortable to say the least, and so they work their way
2o3 aknold's maucii ficom cambuidois to quebkc.
iil<)ii<4' sometimes in their bateuux, now upon the land, and
iij^siin wuilins^ in the water. Soon tliey reach Skowhegan
fiills : here of course they have to leave the river and take
to the land. The troops still journey on, and now the
falls of Xorridgewock are reach(Hl. Meigs, in his journal
says: "at 7 o'clk. on the evening of Octr. 8d, a little
below Xorridgewalk my battoe tilled with water. Here I
lost my kettle, l)utter and sugar ; a loss [he says] not to
be rei)laced hero." The time has now arrived when the
army will leave behind them the abode of man, and enter
the uninhabited wilderness. Col. Arnold comes to us and
cncam})s with the men. And now they push up the river,
leaving it many times to pass over the several carrying
places, until the Great Carrying place is reached. This
Great Carrying place is about lifteen miles across from the
Kennel )ec river to the Dead river ; there are on the way
three ponds which the troops in their march have to cross.
On their way there are four carrying places. To the
tirst pond three and three-fourths miles — then the pond
one-fourth of a mile wide — second carrying place one
mile, second pond one-quarter of a mile wide — third
carrying place one mile — then the last })ond four miles
wide, and then over land four miles to the Dead river.
By the 15th of October many of the troops had reached
the Dead river. From hero Arnold desi)atches a messen-
ger to parties he knew in Quebec to ascertain what he
niijjht concerning the movements there.
The troops find the ascent of the Dead river very diffi-
cult ; there are a great many falls and carrying places. On
the 24th of October Thayer says, " We had intelligence of
its being 25 miles to the Great Carrying place where the
height of land is, and in the mean time destitute of pro-
visions, for the two barrels of Hour brought gave 2 lbs.
to each man, and we only had a half pint left to deliver
AKNOLD'h MAIUni FUOM CAMIJUIIXIK TO QUKUKC. 2()4
out ; besidea the continual snow Ji*?gravated us more, and
left us in a situation not to be desired." Novv^ many of the
men are taken sick. Is it any wonder, when we realize
what they have l)een through? The river is very narrow,
and the walking upon the land is exceedingly bad. The
men are becoming disheartened and many desire to re-
turn.
Affairs are now looking diibions. A council of war U
held. These are the men who compose it : Colonel Green,
Captiiins Topham and Thayer, and Colonel Enos. It was
held at the request of Colonel Eiios. Enos desires to give
up and go l)ack, to decide the inarch a failure, but the
council decided acrainst 'ini. They resolved that Enos
should not go back ; should not return ; but must go for-
ward with them. It was decided that it would be wronjj
to give up now ; that they must anil would go forward at
whatever cost. Does one realize what brave men they
were, what remarkal)le courage they displayed in this?
Enos' party, who were six in niunber, regretted ex<!eed-
ingly this action taken by llieir comrades. So they hold
another council, this time among themselves, and Captains
McCol)b, Williams and Scott, declared they would return,
and not rush into imminent danger. Captain Thayer says :
-^"Capt. Williams stepped towards me and wished me
success, Init told me he never expected to see me or any
of us again alive — he was so conscious of the imminent
danjier we were to i?o throuirh. Col. Enos also advanced
and, with tears in his eyes, wished me and mine success,
and took as he then supposed his last farewell of me."
Just imagine the parting in the wilderness between these
brave men, — pathetic it musthav(? been, — brave indeed had
they l>een, those who now retuin ; braver they who, foresee-
ing what may be their fate, resolve that they will not turn
back l)ut will go forward, let what will happen. Enos
2rt5 aknold's makcii fuom oamhimixie to qukukc.
iiuil liis iiioii now coimneiice tlii'ir rotiini inarch. They took
with them, iunong other tilings, provisions ptirt of which
ought to have been given to the men on the iidvunce. This
was a groat Mow to the troojjs composing the other divi-
sions, ami they felt it keenly, and were severe in their de-
miiicialion of Enos. Colonel Arnold, who was in advance,
did not hear of th(! trouble caused by P]uos for some time,
and when he did learn of it was greatly incensed. Enos
went back without any order from his superior officer.
Colonel Arnold. Arnold's design was, that only the
sick in the various divisions should return. Enos finally
reached Cambiidge, where he was tried by court martial,
but vviis acquitted.
The troops that are left now continue their march up
the DeM<l River. As they move along the river, very
often they are obliged to leave the same on account of
the many falls; but, still nothing daunted, they press (m
and on.
Colonel Arnold now, with a small party, pushes ahead
of the main army, on, to the Chaudiere lake, and then
down the river or by it to the French settlements, in the
hope of finding food. Under date of Oct. 27, 1775, he
writes to Colonels Green, Enos and the captains, "I shall
proceed with what men 1 have as fast as possible to the
inhabitants, and endeavor to procure and send back pro-
visions. Please make all possible dispatch. "
The army as they advance soon tindthe rain has changed
to snow, and ice has formed upon the water. It is now
with great difficulty that they proceed upon their way.
Soon, however, they reach the high lands which separate
the waters of New England from the waters of Canada.
This was on October 27. By Octol)er 30, the whole
body of troops had reached the Chaudiere pond or lake.
They are now in a very bad condition and in great need
HIST. COLL. VOL. XXXIU 17*
Arnold's march from caimhuidgk to quehec. 266
of [nod. At this pliico JuUiii-s, Uk; iidiii whom Arnold had
previously dispatched, retunuHl, jiiid iiitorined him that
the French inhiibitunts were rejoiced to hear of his com-
ing siiid would gladly furnish his men with provisions.
Arnold, at this time, writes to Washington and informs
him that "the march thus tar has been attended with an
amazing deal of fatigue, which the officers and men have
borne with cheerfulness." He says, " I have been much
deceived in every account of our route, which is longer,
and has been attended with a tiiousand difficulties I never
apprehended ; but, if crowned with success, and condu-
cive to the i)ublic good, I shall think it trifling."
Arnold is now desirous of sendin<j' a message to Gen-
eral Montgomery at Montreal, and to whom does he in-
trust the message? Why, to none other than Aaron Burr,
the young volunteer.
Montgomery was one hundred and twenty miles away
and Burr alone was to seek him and deliver to him
the message of Arnold. This messaije was of great im-
portance as it divulged the future plans of Arnold. Arnold
showed great confidence in the ability of young Burr by
sending him, ;s he was al)out to do, across the country
and on such a critical missicm. In performing this duty
Burr tirst gave proof of his tact and address. He knew
that the French peo[)le had never become reconciled
to British rule ; he also knew that the Catholic clergy
specially abhorred it. Therefore, with this knowledge what
does he do? Why, he assumes the garb and bearing of
a young priest and goes directly to a religious house near
the camp and seeks an interview with its chief. He
knows Latin and French, and consequently finds no diffi-
culty in conversing fluently with the venerable priest.
Burr soon perceives that this old man is just the person
he has need of, and feeling safe in so doing, he avows his
267 arnold'.s .march from ca.mbriixjk to qurbkc.
real cimractor, and askei, through him, aid from the cleri-
cal order in the prosecution of his work.
But what saith this ancient servant of God? After
jtjazing in astonishment at the young man, lie replies:
"You are hut a hoy! It is impossihio for you, for one
of your tender years to perforin such a journey as you
descrihe. It will be a long joinney ! It will be beset
with great danger." Did Burr answer by saying, "you
are quite right, venerable father?" Oh, po ! Bim' i say,
"1 am going forward to meet General Montgomery. I shall
not return to Colonel Arnold." The priest, finding him
determined to go forward, furnished him with a trusty
guide, and one of the rude carriages of the comitry.
From one religious family to another the guide conveyed
him with perfect safety, and with such comfort as made
the journey seem a holiday excursion com|)ared with the
recent severe march through the wiklerness. All went
merry as a marriage bell ; they had a fine time until they ar-
rived at Three Rivers. Here they wore interrupted; for
rumors of Arnold's arrival had been reported, and the
authorities were on the lookout to prevent communication
between the two armies. Burr was concealed three days
in a convent at Three Rivers, alter which he and his guide
proceeded, reaching Montreal without (uither interrup-
tion. Burr immediately went to Montgomery's head-
quarters, gave the information with which he was charged,
and narrated his adventures. Montgomery received him
with great favor ; he was charmed and delighted with him.
He showed his appreciation by making hitn his aid-de-
camp with the rank of captain.
Turn now to Arnold and his army. Arnold has been
moving ahead of his men searching for food, which he
has found, and sends the same back to his army, who
receive it, as well they may, with great joy. Now the
Arnold's makch fhom cambimdgk i. qukbkc. 2()8
journey is made, most of the time, upon the sides of the
Chandiere river, it being impos8il)le to remain loiitjr upon
the river, owing to the rapids. Many of the bateaux
weie destroyed soon after l)eing placed upon the stream.
But on they go, and soon arrive at a French house, and
receive hospitality there. It is the first house seen for
many days. Here they were well supplied with fresh
beef, fowls, butter and vegetables. This place is Sarti-
gan. Heie at Sartigan, while the soldiers were arriving,
a body of Indians, occupying as their hunting grounds a
part of the territory over which Arnold had marched,
waited upon him, and with all the formality and dignity
which characterize an Indian council, demanded the cause
of his entering upon their territory. Arnold made a
formal reply to them, and among other things he said, "I
feel myself happy in meeting with so many of my breth-
ren from the different quarters of the great country.
Brethren, we are the children of those people who have
now taken up the hatchet against us. More than this, —
one hundred years ago we were all as one family. Our
fathers bought land of your fathers, and have grown a
great people. We have planted the ground, and by our
labor grown rich. Now a new king and hi« wicked
great men want to take our land and money without our
consent;" and so he goes on, finally telling them why
he is here; and asking help of them. With offers of
money and provisions, he finally succeeds in persuading
fifty of their warriors to join his army, and they served
him faithfully.
From here on to Point Levi, all through the Canadian
country, Arnold caused to be distributed a manifesto from
Washington to the Canadians, which had been prepared,
translated into French, and printed before the departure
from Cambridge.
269 Arnold's makch fuom ca.aibuidge to qukbeo.
From Siirtigan the army struggle along, in any way
they see Ht, over snow and ice, and without any regard
to companies or divisions. A liard, rough journey until,
finally, hy the 10th of Noveml)or, tlie whole of the army
who had survived the [)erilous march through the wilder-
ness, reach Point Levi, opposite and in sight of Que-
bec, the object of their weary and toilsome march.
Arnold remained here at Point Levi nearly a week, and
the first matter that demanded his attention was, how
he should get his men across the St. Lawrence and at-
tack Quebec ; for the English, having been informed of his
near approach, had burned all the boats upon the Point
Levi side of the river so as to Impede his progress. But
Arnold, with his accustomed skill and tact, immediately
sent out into the country round about, and with the help
of his Indian allies, succeeded in collecting qtiite a num-
ber of canoes. Now he must be on the alert and watch
his opportunity to cross the river, as there were a numlier
of armed vessels on the river between Point Levi and
Quebec. Here he showed great skill and judgment.
How many men are there that, in the face of such obstacles,
would have thought of crossing the river under such cir-
cumstances? He watched his time, and on the evening
of Monday, November 13, everything being in readiness
for embarkation, at nine o'clock, it being quite dark, the
first division set olf, and passing between the Hunter, an
armed vessel of fourteen guns, and Quebec, land safely
on the Quebec side of the river.
The boats are immediately sent back, and continue to
pass and repass over the river until all are over, with the
exception of a few soldiers left on guard at Point Levi.
The troops land in Wolfe's Cove, so called, and ascend
the heights over the same route taken by the gallant
Wolfe in 1759. Having reached the plains of Abraham,
AUNOLU'8 AIAUCII FliO.M ( AMBKIDOK TO QUKBKC. 270
the next day, Tuesday, in the nioniiiij^, proper jrnardsare
phiced on the different roads, so as to cut off the eoninin-
nication between city and country. Durin<; the day the
main l)ody inarch upon the heij^hts near the city, and <rive
three loud huzzas. In the eveninj^ Arnold sends a tlag
to the town with a demand of the f^arrison in the name
and behalf of the United Colonies. As the flag ap-
proached the walls, the color bearer was tired upon, con-
trary to all rules or customs upon such oc(!asions.
The troops renuiin here on the heights of Abraham
al)out a week, and here was the first blood-shed l)e(()re
Quebec. It was in this way. Sergeant Dixon ofCai)tain
Smith's rifle company received a cannon shot in one of his
legs. He was removed to the house of an English gen-
tleman, where amputation took place, and he soon after
died, and was buried upon the heights. An incident con-
nected with this shooting is interesting, showing as it
does a strong sentiment, which the prospect of death did
not quench. The lady of the house where Dixon was
carried, though not approving of the principles or doings
of the Americans, was nevertheless very attentive to
Dixon, and presented him with a cup of tea, which he
declined, saying : "No, madam, I cannot take it ! It is
the ruin of my country." Uttering this noble sentiment,
he quietly and peacefully passed to his rest.
Soon the order is given to strike their tents and de-
camp from the plains, and early on the morning of Nov.
19th, the army marcli up the river and soon after encamp
at a place called Point au Trembles, about seven leagues
from Quebec.
Thus far we have been taken along in imagination with
this army, and they have reached the very gates of Que-
bec, and then departed therefrom, — but of course we
cannot leave theitt,'.W.ithd;at'.niir{'atiiiig. -hew. they remained
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271 AKNOLD'h MAUCIl FKUM GAMBKIUGIfi TO (jUEBKO.
at their onoampment upon the river for a while, until
joined by the brave Montfj^oinory and his army from Mon-
treal ; how togetlier they afterwards moved to attack (Que-
bec ; liow they laid siege to the city ; how, on that stormy
morning of the* last day of the year 177;'), they made an
attack upon Quebec ; how the brave and fearless Mont-
gomery was killed ; how the impetuous and brave Arnold
was wounded, and many brave officers and men were
killed, and others, some wounded, and some prisoners;
how, what was hoped might l)e a victory, was turned into
defeat ; all this happened, and more — the half of which
has not been, and cannot here be told.
We were defeated ! What would have been the future
of the country which was to be, and of the man Benedict
Arnold? yes, what of the man Benedict Arnold, if,
instead of defeat, victory had perched upon our banners,
and as a result Quebec had fallen into our hands ?
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