r march is from the ambuscades of the
Indians, who, by constant practice, are dexterous in laying and
executing them; and your slender line of troops, nearly four miles long,
which your army must make, may expose it to be attacked by surprise on
its flanks, and to be cut like thread into several pieces, which, from
their distance, cannot come up in time to support one another."

General Braddock smiled at what he thought was Franklin's ignorance, and
answered in a self-assuring manner:

"These savages may, indeed, be a formidable enemy to raw American
militia; but upon the king's regular and disciplined troops, sir, it is
impossible they should make an impression."

In describing this interview afterwards, Franklin said sarcastically:

"I was conscious of an impropriety in my disputing with a military man
in matters of his profession and said no more."

Washington was so ill after the army reached the great crossings of the
Youghiogeny, that Dr. Craik advised him to stop until he rallied. He had
been feverish for several days, and for that reason had ridden in a
covered wagon.

"Death is almost inevitable if you continue," said Dr. Craik. "Stop here
until the violence of your fever abates, and then you can come up with
Dunbar's rear division."

"I think you are unnecessarily alarmed, doctor," answered Washington.
"In a few days I shall be all right. It will be a great trial to me to
stop here and not advance with the army."

"It may prove a greater trial for you to advance," suggested Dr. Craik.
"Rest and quiet may restore you speedily now, but it may be too late
three days hence."

General Braddock also appealed to him.

"You are altogether too unwell to proceed, Colonel Washington," he said,
"and you must not attempt it."

"But I would not miss being with you at the attack upon Fort Duquesne
for five hundred pounds," replied Washington.

"And you will not if you stop here until you are better; but if you go
on, you may be dead and buried by that time, or too sick to participate
in the battle," was the general's wise answer.

"I will stop here if you will promise that I shall rejoin the army
before an engagement," added Washington.

"I pledge you my word of honor, in the most solemn manner, that it shall
be effected."

Washington remained, soon rallied, and rejoined the army when it was
encamped about two miles from the Monongahela River.

Washington had feared disaster, as Franklin did, from Braddo