rt range, but the weapon hung fire and the sentinel
took to his heels through this trench, the attacking party following at
full speed.

The fugitive led the way to the parade-ground within the barracks, where
was found another sentinel, and he made a thrust with his bayonet at
Colonel Easton, who was side by side with the leaders; but had hardly
raised his weapon before a blow from the flat of Colonel Allen's sword
sent him headlong to the ground.

At this the men, unable longer to control themselves, gave vent to a
tremendous shout, and without orders separated into two divisions, each
bent on gaining possession of the barrack ranges.

As bees swarm out of their hives, so did the startled redcoats rush from
the buildings, and it seemed to Isaac as if instantly each man appeared
he was disarmed by one of the Green Mountain Boys, who, as fast as he
secured a captive, marched him to the center of the parade-ground in
order that he might not block up the entrance of the barracks.

Now was come the moment when Nathan's services were required.

It was no longer possible to keep silence, for the shouts of the men
must have aroused every one within the inclosure, and turning quickly,
Colonel Allen cried in a loud voice:

"Get you before me with that lad, corporal and let him lead the way to
the commandant's quarters."

Nathan did not require urging.

He understood that this man had come with serious purpose, and knew full
well it might be dangerous for him to hang back.

Darting ahead as swiftly as the corporal would allow, he conducted
Colonel Allen to the door of Captain Delaplace's dwelling, and the
leader gave three resounding knocks with the hilt of his sword, as he
shouted:

"Surrender this fort, commandant! Surrender at once in order to save the
lives of your men!"

The door was quickly opened in response to this demand, and a half-clad
man, over whose shoulder could be seen the frightened face of a woman,
appeared in the doorway.

Before he could speak Colonel Allen cried:

"I order you instantly to surrender, sir!"

"By whose authority do you make such demand?" the captain cried with
dignity.

"In the name of the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress!"

These words sounded in Isaac's ears like the thunder of cannon, and even
while he questioned to himself if it were possible this handful of men
had really captured the fortress, Ticonderoga was surrendered.

CHAPTER VIII.

AN INTERRU