In 1633, he further says--“Our ancient work of fortification, by continuance of time is decayed, and Christian wisdom teaches us to depend upon God in the use of all good means for our safety.” It was therefore ordered by the Governor that the fort should be repaired, and the stockade enlarged. In 1635 and in 1642, it was again repaired, and in 1643 a watch tower was built nearby. This was of brick, two stories high, and contained a fireplace with a chimney. Though hostile Indians never attacked the town, both they and the neighboring friendly tribes held the white men in increased respect for this protection. During the first winter, the Pilgrims elected Capt. Myles Standish their military leader. He organized and trained his little army of twelve men, led their marches, protected the town, and rendered valiant service for thirty-five years. “The only trained soldier In the Pilgrim Community Always their military Commander But also a valuable civil servant And a wise promoter Of the business interests Of the Pilgrim Stock Company. In fight fearless impetuous and resolute In civil affairs cautious and firm In business shrewd just and far-seeing A conscientious and high-minded leader Of devout men and women Who founded in a wilderness A tolerant church and a free state.” From Standish Monument Duxbury, Massachusetts DR. CHARLES W. ELIOT THE GUNS On the side hill near the site of the fort now stand two ancient cannon; they were presented to Plymouth Oct. 4, 1921, by the British Government, through the good offices of the Honorable Artillery Company of London (chartered in 1537) and the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts (chartered in 1638). Col. Sidney Hedges, speaking at the presentation of the guns, said: “While we are not sure that they are the original pieces, which stood on the spot in 1621, they certainly are of the same type and age: one is called a Minion, manufactured in 1557, and the other a Sackeret, manufactured in 1550.” Bradford and Winslow mention such guns. “The master came on shore with many of his sailors, and brought with him one of the great pieces, called a minion, and helped us to draw it up the hill, with another piece that lay on shore, and mounted them, and a saller (saker, or sackeret) and two bases (very small pieces).” At the presentation ceremony, Oct. 4, 1921, Mr. Joseph Smith read an original poem which contained these lines: