"There are but few of us here to undertake the work which was cut out; but yet each of you should be a match for any two whom we may meet. Should we delay until all the force can be ferried across, there will be no longer opportunity to surprise the garrison; therefore we must act for our comrades as well as ourselves, remembering that should we falter we cast shame on them also. Now, lads, it is my purpose to march into the fort, and I only ask that you follow where I lead." The officers stepped forward quickly to make certain there should be no cheering, and wheeling about with true military precision Colonel Allen started forward, Colonel Arnold by his side, and Corporal 'Lige with Nathan and Isaac directly in the rear. Behind them came eighty of the Green Mountain Boys. There was no command given. Each of the men copied the movements of the leader, and noiselessly but rapidly they made their way up the heights toward the sallyport, Isaac's face paling as he went, for he believed of a surety now was come the time when he should hear the clash of arms and find himself in the midst of combatants, each striving to take the other's life. On passing an angle at the rear of the fortification the entrance of a trench or covert-way was come upon and here they surprised a sentinel half asleep, leaning against the earthwork. Awakened thus suddenly, and seeing what he might naturally suppose to be the advance guard of a large force directly upon him, he took hasty aim at Colonel Allen and pulled the trigger. Involuntarily Isaac closed his eyes, believing their leader must be killed at such short range, but the weapon hung fire and the sentinel took to his heels through this trench, the attacking party following at full speed. The fugitive led the way to the parade-ground within the barracks, where was found another sentinel, and he made a thrust with his bayonet at Colonel Easton, who was side by side with the leaders; but had hardly raised his weapon before a blow from the flat of Colonel Allen's sword sent him headlong to the ground. At this the men, unable longer to control themselves, gave vent to a tremendous shout, and without orders separated into two divisions, each bent on gaining possession of the barrack ranges. As bees swarm out of their hives, so did the startled redcoats rush from the buildings, and it seemed to Isaac as if instantly each man appeared he was disarmed by one of the Green Mountain Boys, who, as fast as he secured a captive, marched him to the center of the parade-ground in order that he might not block up the entrance of the barracks. Now was come the moment when Nathan's services were required. It was no longer possible to keep silence, for the shouts of the men must have aroused every one within the inclosure, and turning quickly, Colonel Allen cried in a loud voice: "Get you before me with that lad, corporal and let him lead the way to the commandant's quarters." Nathan did not require urging.