ecessary under proper management, how could he hope
ever to save the country?

Who was that haggard fellow with bare feet wrapped in rags and little
but an old horse blanket to keep out the wintry wind? Angus? Yes, no
doubt of it!

"Hi, Rod! Say, you fellers as hev breeches ought ter bring us in a
bite ter eat. What's the good o' your foragin' if yer don't?"

"I haven't had a mouthful since last night, myself. How are you,
anyway? I don't see how you men can stay here and bear it."

"Many of us wouldn't if we'd the duds ter git away in. It's a hard
road ter Charlottesville fer bare feet."

"I'm beginning to feel like taking it. When we drive the British out
of the Quaker City then we'll apply for a furlough, eh, Angus?"

"I'd go this minute if I could."

"I doubt it, Angus. You always were a tenacious fellow."

"What's the good o' stayin' when Congress won't provide board an'
clothes? They sure are a shiftless lot."

"They might easily be improved, it would seem, but we've gone too far
in this war to turn back now."

"Starvin' an' freezin' ain't goin' ter help ther cause none."

"Spring will soon be here and we'll feel better, I hope."

Spring was approaching, and never again was the American army to
suffer as it did that winter at Valley Forge. Those who endured, and
lived through it, won such glory as few men achieve.

Colonel Morgan rejoined his command in the spring. The enemy were
beginning to show signs of animation. Rumours were about that Howe
intended to leave Philadelphia, and then another to the effect that he
was to be recalled.

One day a company of Rangers was sent to support Lafayette at Barren
Hill, Rodney among the number. Two British generals were marching
their men by different routes from Philadelphia to capture the
distinguished Frenchman and his command.

"Here," thought young Allison, "is my chance," and he set his face,
which had noticeably hardened during the cruel winter. No more would
it look with favour on the flattering smiles of a girl; at least
Rodney had so resolved.

When the charge was made in characteristic Ranger manner, Allison was
in the front line and was the last to turn back, though there were
several bullet holes in his clothes. Another charge, and again he was
in the lead. A big redcoat was upon him before he could reload. He
clubbed his rifle, knocked aside the bayonet thrust and felled his
antagonist. Then, when he turned to retreat, it was too late; a
fl