t the governor in his
project of a rising of the slaves, a scheme was pressed to raise in
Carolina a regiment of veteran Highlanders, and orders were sent to
rouse the Iroquois against the rebels. Further, the king planned to
strengthen his forces by hiring troops from the continent of Europe.

News of all this, coming across the Atlantic, by degrees changed the
aspect of affairs, and made the members of the Congress doubtful of
reconciliation. They began to look to their own positions, and to feel
that, as Franklin said, unless they hung together they would all hang
separately. To remind them what they could do in self-defence the needs
of the army around Boston were frequently brought to their attention.
Its discipline, equipment, and leadership were poor. At last came a
petition from Massachusetts, begging that Congress should "take command
of the army by appointing a generalissimo."[107] Such a step was open
and complete rebellion, and the Congress hesitated. By private letters
to Samuel Adams the desired leader was pointed out: Washington.

The choice was doubly wise. To the Adamses it had been plain that,
though Hancock was desirous of the post, it should not be given to a New
Englander. The New England army would be knit together, and its
provincial jealousies appeased, by the appointment of a general from
another section. Further, in all the continent there was not another man
of Washington's experience, ability, and steadfastness.

Washington was then in the prime of life, forty-three years of age, and
of such physique as was needed for the bearer of the greatest burden
that had ever been put upon an American. He was tall, finely built,
majestic in carriage and impressive of feature, and accustomed from his
youth to exposure, hardship, and constant exertion. He had long been
used to depending upon himself, and had acquired an independent
judgment that was almost unerring. Further, that judgment had been
exercised on military matters. While Hancock had been at best the
captain of a militia company in time of peace, Washington had from his
nineteenth year been commissioned with higher commands, and had seen
much active service. More than one campaign owed its success against the
Indians largely to him, and it was he and his Virginians who saved the
remnant at Braddock's defeat. He had a strong temper under almost
perfect control, patience and persistence in equal amounts, and, with a
wonderful reserve, the qual