plans, he was intrepid and skilful in execution. Lamenting the late outset of military operations in the campaign of 1777, and the circuitous course of invasion, which postponed active warfare till the season for it was nearly expired. When the British army at length took the field, colonel Hamilton was one of its most valiant and skilful leaders. At Brandy Wine and German town, he was particularly distinguished; he now hoped that British achievements, though tardy in commencement, would be effectual in result. But premature departure from the field completed the inutility of British valour. Northern discomfiture combining with southern inefficiency, demonstrated the contest to be henceforth hopeless. Hamilton perceived, with sorrow, the debauchery that unnerved British prowess, and with mingled pity and contempt beheld the farcical pageantry of triumph
