We say that was a mistake, because the people still remember the great struggle against the French, and the fierce war between the colonies acknowledging England and France. One man, afterward one of the foremost to welcome Lafayette to New York, declared that it would be better to be the slaves of England than the friends of France. "Better serfdom, degradation, death under England's flag than liberty if obtained by the assistance of France." His fiery speech turned the tide of feeling against Ethan Allen and the invasion of Canada, and the assembly absolutely refused to listen any further to Allen. Some were ungenerous enough to taunt him with suggesting the plan on purpose to save himself from arrest. Others wanted to know if he expected to be the general commanding. "No, I should have asked permission to join as a private soldier, for I have no ambition to command even a squad." "What, then, was your object?" "I live to serve my country; I hope to see her free and independent." Saying which, he left the hall, and his Mountain Boys were downhearted at the treatment he had received. "Shall we return to our mountains?" asked Baker. "No; at least I shall not. I shall journey to Philadelphia and see what the Continental Congress is doing." "We will go with you." "I shall be glad of your company, though maybe you have more urgent matters at home to attend to." "That was unkind, colonel," Seth Warner murmured. "I meant it not so, believe me. I know that all of you are ready to serve your country." Albany was left behind and the party started south for Philadelphia. After a long march a place of rest was sought. It was nothing unusual for a semi-military company to be on the march, and so the party did not attract any extraordinary attention. A farmhouse seemed best suited for the refreshment and rest required, and one was found which seemed to answer all purposes. Warner went forward to interview the farmer, and soon returned with the pleasing news that the party could have supper, rest for the night, and breakfast in the morning for a most moderate sum. The farmer was hospitable. He killed some chickens and a young pig, and in a very short time the odor of cooking was very appetizing. After supper the farmer insisted on bringing out several flagons of good cider, strong and old, for it was the last year's make. Song and story enlivened the evening. Warner told of the days when he had hunted the wild bear and met with some startling adventures. Baker recounted many a stirring episode in the life of a hunter, and Allen, who passed under an assumed name, kept up the interest by narrating a story of ancient knighthood. "Seems to me that there are as great heroes to-day as in olden times," the farmer remarked. "Yes, I suppose so." "Now, in the troubles we are just encountering, there will be opportunities for heroism." "Yes, and many a brave boy will sleep in a nameless grave."