“That may be true. But he is retreating, retreating--ever retreating. This does not win battles. The British are apparently triumphant upon every hand. Your army has been driven from Canada; you have evacuated Long Island; New York is in the hands of your country’s foes; and it is rumored that the American soldier is throwing down his arms and taking advantage of the pardon which General Howe offered all who would return.” As he stood at a window some little distance from the group about the commander of the Ranger and the French minister, Ethan noted the eager interest of all. He also saw that Dr. Franklin had opened the letters which had been handed him but still held the secret packet with its seals unbroken; he smiled over the letters as one smiles who is highly pleased. As the minister continued in the same strain for some time, it dawned upon Ethan that the news of Gates’ victory had not yet reached him, and with a thrill he realized that there was a surprise in store for those present. At length Dr. Franklin lifted his venerable head and said, with a quiet smile: “But, my dear count, you have not yet heard of the affair of Burgoyne.” The minister of foreign affairs laughed. “You must not think us so far behind the times, monsieur,” he said. “Burgoyne compelled the Americans to retreat from Ticonderoga some time ago. And he followed this up by severely defeating them at a place called Hubbardton. This news reached us promptly and through a channel which we never question.” “My news,” and Franklin fluttered his letters triumphantly, “is very much later than yours, it would seem. Burgoyne undoubtedly accomplished what you claim. But it is the result of his subsequent operations of which I speak.” “You have news, monsieur?” The face of the Count de Vergennes shone with satisfaction; this gentleman was ever a friend to America, and was always hungry for news of American success. “Burgoyne’s troubles began with his advance upon Fort Edward. A thousand German mercenaries were killed and captured to begin with. Then he crossed the Hudson in force to turn the American position at Bemis Heights; but Arnold met him with desperate courage and held him back.” A murmur of admiration went up from the Frenchmen present. “A brilliant officer, this General Arnold,” commented the count. “Burgoyne’s communications with Lake Champlain were then cut by a dashing enterprise of my countrymen; forced by the hunger of his men, the British general risked another battle,” proceeded Dr. Franklin, “and met with a crushing defeat.” Another murmur went up; eyes sparkled with pleasure; hands applauded softly. “But,” argued the Count de Vergennes, “the tables might be turned once more. Burgoyne may still conquer.” Franklin smiled serenely. “That is impossible,” said he. “An hour ago I would have said as much for Arnold’s chances of victory,” said the count.