that we might, even at this
eleventh hour, do something toward showing ourselves worthy of being
called Minute Boys, although we really accomplished nothing more, then
was I fired with the same desire that was in his mind.

Although as I have said many times, I had little knowledge of military
matters, it appeared to me that as soon as it was learned the red-coats
had crossed over to Gloucester our people would, by using the boats and
vessels which were lying in the stream 'twixt York and Williamsburg,
cross directly over to the other shore without coming down through the
village, for thus they might circle around the advance of the retreating
foe.

In the meanwhile both encampments would be in the hands of such Tories
as had remained throughout the siege, and, most like, a certain number
of camp followers would linger behind.

"What can be done with Uncle 'Rasmus?" I asked anxiously, fearing lest
it might be necessary we take him with us and thus have a drag on our
movements, for the old man could not travel very swiftly; but little
Frenchie had the matter already mapped out in his mind as I might have
understood, and replied:

"It has been decided that you shall go on a westerly course, while
carrying word across the lines, and therefore it is I propose you take
Uncle 'Rasmus with you. Once beyond the enemy's works, where there is no
danger either Tory or camp follower can molest him, set the old fellow's
face toward the Hamilton plantation and let him plod his way on alone,
for there is naught of danger on that road."

"But the prisoners?" I asked.

"They must be set free, else will it become our duty to remain here
instead of joining in the pursuit."

"When do you count that should be done?" I asked, and much to my
surprise little Frenchie replied thoughtfully:

"There is no reason why we should not begin at once, and every
inducement for us to have our preparations made for a quick departure
from the town. Suppose you go back and attend to it? Within the hour we
must be on our way, for when those boatmen who have just put off, come
back and take on another cargo, then is the retreat much the same as
accomplished, for by that time every soldier from the works roundabout
will be called in."

Because of the past, when Pierre had shown himself so quick-witted and
having such a good idea of military matters, I made no protest against
his proposition; but stood ready to obey implicitly any orders he might
giv