Preparations for war between Philip and the Colonies--Great excitement of the times--Deposition of Hugh Cole--Immediate occasion of hostilities--Commencement of them, June 24th, 1675--Summary sketch of the war--Consequences to the parties engaged--Exertions, adventures and escapes of King Philip--His death--Anecdotes respecting him--Observations on his character--His courage, dignity, kindness, independence, shrewdness, and self-command--Fate of his family--Defence of his conduct. Whatever had previously been the disposition or determination of Philip, it is universally agreed, that subsequent to the transaction mentioned at the close of the last chapter, he took but little pains either to conceal his own hostility or to check that of his subjects. It would be incredible that he should. He well remembered what had happened to his brother in much more peaceable times; and, as several historians intimate, he must actually have apprehended "the danger his own head was in next." A passage in one of his letters heretofore cited, is to the same purpose--"as also suggestions of great danger in case they [his subjects] there [at Plymouth] appear; _with harsh threats to the sachem, that may be Considered._" Every preparation was now made for the impending crisis on either side. The following ancient document, taken from the records of Plymouth, shows that the agitation of all the parties concerned had already arrived to a high pitch. It is the deposition of one Hugh Cole, taken in court previous to Sassamon's death, and attested by Nathaniel Morton as secretary. [FN] * * * * * [FN] Vide 6th. Vol. Mss. His. Coll. 1st Series