Page:The youth of Washington (1910).djvu/290

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  • lieved the French would give them their

freedom. My wounded general's proud spirit gave way when he heard of Colonel Dunbar's intention. He lived four days after the battle, having been brought in much pain, and still more distress of mind, to the camp at Great Meadows.

For the most part he was silent and only now and then let a groan. Dr. Craik told me that he cried out over and over: "Who would have believed it possible?" Once he said to Captain Stewart: "We shall know better next time; but what will the duke say? [That was his Grace of Cumberland.] What will he say?" On the morning of the 13th Dr. Craik said the general had made his will and desired to see me. When he was aware of my coming into his hut, he put out his left hand, saying, "That is the only hand which is left," for the ball had gone through his right arm. He was said to be a great wit, but that a man about to die should have spirit to use his dying breath in a jest much astonished me.

He said: "I want you to take my horse and my man, Bishop. I have told St. Clair." Then he said: "I should have taken your advice. Too late; too late." After