shall do so soon if the people continue to hold out against
the king, I propose to set my name down for that company to which you
belong."

"Do so when we go back to the fort," Isaac cried gleefully, "and side by
side you and I will see many a brave adventure."

"But the trouble is we may see more than will be pleasing, though I
truly believe I shall enlist."

"And Corporal 'Lige shall teach us both a soldier's duty."

This proposition apparently did not meet with favor, for Nathan at once
changed the subject of the conversation by inquiring regarding the
probable condition of affairs at Crown Point, after which the boys
listened to the conversation of their companions as they spoke of
Lexington and Concord, and of what should be done to avenge the murders
committed there.

And now it came to pass that these two lads were most grievously
disappointed in their anticipations concerning the capture of the fort.

Probably each had in his mind the thought that he was to see somewhat of
war, more at least than had been witnessed at Ticonderoga; but it was
not to be.

As the little fleet approached the point, Warner and his men were just
disembarking.

Although Captain Baker's party was but a mile away at that time, when
they gained the shore the garrison had been surrendered without the
firing of a gun, and the booming of the cannon told that again were the
"imitation soldiers" successful in their efforts to teach his majesty a
lesson.

One hundred and fourteen cannon, of which sixty-one were fit for
service, were among the spoils on this morning, and after having made up
a list of such goods as were found in the fort, Seth Warner did the two
lads the great favor of sending them to Colonel Allen with the news of
the bloodless victory.

"Go you on ahead, lads," Captain Baker said when the boys had been
intrusted with the message. "I won't spoil a good fortune by seeming to
accompany you; but will linger here until you are well on the way, and
after having given Ethan Allen the best news he could possibly receive
at such a critical time, I very much question whether you may not ask
whatsoever you will from him."

Hurriedly the messengers departed in order that they might arrive well
in advance of Captain Baker's company, and when they were pulling down
the lake, Isaac said thoughtfully:

"You heard what Captain Baker said, that Colonel Allen might grant
anything we asked?"

"Yes, and I know what is in your mi