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[p. 13] leading the way himself, he made a rapid movement forward, and his company ascended the parapet. Surprised at the suddenness of the assault, the enemy retired from the fort and the whole regiment entered it.

General Arnold, whose energy gave spirit to the whole action, having been wounded in the foot, Brigadier-General Learned assumed the command of the brigade.

As the day was far spent the men threw themselves down to rest, when General Learned called the officers together, and in hearing of the men, said, “I have called you together, gentlemen, to see whether you agree with me in opinion that it is best to return to our position. I am clearly of opinion that we cannot hold this place till morning; we may all fall a sacrifice in the attempt.” The officers of my regiment were the only ones who dissented from this opinion. I said I thought it was time enough to retreat when the enemy appeared. “If he does not attempt to retake the fort it will be an everlasting disgrace for us to abandon it; and if he does and we cannot defend it, there will be no dishonor in retreating. At any rate, my men are fatigued, and want rest and refreshment before they can move anywhere.” The soldiers cheered us as we returned from the council.

Shortly afterwards General Learned (who was a weak man), called another council to advise with the officers again, and as I was going to the meeting my men said, “For God's sake, Colonel, don't retreat; we have taken the work, and we are able to keep it,” and cheered again. At the second council but one other officer sided with me. Before the council broke up an officer (who turned out to be an aid-de-camp of General Gates) rode up in great speed, and cried out, “Who commands here?” The answer was, “Brigadier-General Learned.” As he appeared the officer said, “My orders from General Gates are that you should retain possession of this fort at all hazards,” and rode back with as much speed as he came up. “There now, Colonel Brooks,” said General Learned, “ I dare say you like that, and as your regiment had a principal hand ”

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