On the twenty-sixth, General Sullivan, who generally kept aloof from active participation in the movements of the intriguing class of officers, urged Washington to “make an attempt upon Philadelphia, and risk every consequence, in an action.” General Sullivan meant well; but the reader will recognize the characteristic style of this officer under circumstances of special doubt as to “what is to be done next.” But Washington never wavered in his purpose. On the thirtieth of December, Baron De Kalb was appointed Inspector-General, _vice_ Conway, resigned. Washington closed the year at Valley Forge. The twelve months since he recrossed the Delaware at Trenton and outgeneraled Lord Cornwallis, had indeed been eventful. Once more, amid snow and cold, surrounded by faithful but suffering thousands, he plans for other perils and exposure; before the goal of his desire, substantial victory, could bring to them and to his beloved country the boon of realized independence. And yet, unknown to him, two days before he occupied the barren site of Valley Forge a thrilling event occurred beyond the Atlantic Ocean, and one which was, in the providence of God, to verify the soldier’s faith, and secure for him final victory. As early as December 2d, the tidings of Burgoyne’s disaster reached the royal palace of George III. Fox, Burke, and Richmond favored immediate peace, and such an alliance, or Federal Union, as would be for the material interests of both countries. Burke solemnly declared that “peace upon any honorable terms was in justice due to both nations.” But the king adjourned Parliament to the twentieth of January, 1778. Meanwhile a speedy ship from Boston was on the high seas, bound for France, and the account of Burgoyne’s surrender was received by the American Commissioners. On the twelfth of the month it was announced to the Count de Vergennes, Minister for Foreign Affairs at the French Court. The sensation throughout Paris was intense. “Europe need no longer dread the British power, since her very Colonies have successfully defied unjust laws, and equally defied her power to enforce them.” This was the public utterance. One pregnant sentence already cited, that of Count de Vergennes, proved the incentive to immediate action. “Saratoga” and “Germantown” were coupled in a message sent to Spain, to solicit her co-operation. Without any real sympathy with America, Spain had already discriminated in favor of American privateers which took prizes to her ports.