aced by any
person--no matter how high his office--was more than distasteful to
them. At once they were in revolt.

"Ethan Allen forever!" arose the cry. "We'll not march without he
commands us!" and more than one threw down his arms. Arnold found
himself facing the possibility of marching upon Ticonderoga alone, for
the mutiny seemed general.

"Sir, sir!" exclaimed Warner, in anxiety, addressing Arnold. "You see
the feeling of these true-hearted men. No person can come here and take
command of them in this way. We are not regular troops. We are banded
together for the good of all, but we do not yet acknowledge the
authority of a sister colony. We desire to be a commonwealth of our own
here in the Grants and have already been disturbed enough by usurpers
from outside. Reconsider this, I beg of you. For if you persevere the
expedition must fail and that which might result in great good to our
struggling brethren, will end in harm because of this folly."

Arnold, if ambitious and unfeeling, already saw that he was beaten. He
was not obstinate enough to do that which would be sure to redound to
his own hurt and discredit. He had not expected such opposition, for he
did not know the veneration in which the Green Mountain Boys held Ethan
Allen. Now, seeing himself undone, he did that which for the time
endeared him to all. His countenance cleared; a frank emotion played
upon his features and advancing a step toward Ethan Allen he said in a
clarion voice, heard by all:

"Colonel Allen, you have precedence here after all. I was mistaken in my
premises. Give me a musket and let me march in the ranks. I shall be
proud to be led by so gallant a commander."

Instantly a volley of cheers broke out among the soldiery, and Allen
who, above all men, could appreciate such generosity, offered his hand
cordially. "Egad, sir!" he cried, "you are a man after my own heart.
When there are so many jealous cattle running about the woods, it is a
pleasure to meet with a man. Give me your hand, Colonel Arnold! There is
glory enough in this campaign for all, and you shall share the command
with me, if you will."

He turned then to his followers. "Men of the Green Mountains!" he cried,
"we are to march at once. Fall in! And with your courage and the help of
Jehovah we shall succeed in our undertaking. To your places, gentlemen,"
to the minor officers, "and Colonel Arnold and I will lead you."

Amid cheers the column moved forward into the