``It is a desperate attempt,'' said he, ``and I
ask no man to go against his will. I will take the
lead, and be the first to advance. You that are
willing to follow, poise your firelocks!''
Not a firelock but was poised!
They mounted the hill briskly but in silence,
guided by a boy from the neighborhood.
The day dawned as Allen arrived at a sally-
port. A sentry pulled trigger on him, but his
piece missed fire. He retreated through a covered
way. Allen and his men followed. Another
sentry thrust at an officer with his bayonet, but
was struck down by Allen, and begged for quarter.
It was granted on condition of his leading the
way instantly to the quarters of the commandant,
Captain Delaplace, who was yet in bed.
Being arrived there, Allen thundered at the
door, and demanded a surrender of the fort. By
this time his followers had formed into two lines
on the parade-ground, and given three hearty
cheers.
The commandant appeared at the door half-
dressed, the frightened face of his pretty wife
peering over his shoulder. He gazed at Allen in
bewildered astonishment.
``By whose authority do you act?'' exclaimed
he.
``In the name of the Continental Congress!''
replied Allen, with a flourish of his sword, and an
oath which we do not care to subjoin.
There was no disputing the point.
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