Powder was low, and must not be wasted. Colonel William
Prescott, who was in command, told his men not to fire too soon. "Wait
till you see the whites of their eyes," he said.
Twice the British soldiers, in their scarlet uniforms, climb the slope of
the hill and charge the breastworks. Twice the Americans drive them back,
ploughing great gaps in their ranks.
[Illustration: Bunker Hill Monument.]
A third time they advance. But now the Americans do not answer the charge.
There is good reason--the powder has given out! A great rush--and the
redcoats have climbed over. But it is no easy victory even now, and there
is no lack of bravery on the part of the Americans. With clubbed muskets
they meet the invaders.
The British won the victory, but with great loss. "Many such," said one
critic, "would have cost them their army."
On the other hand, the Americans had fought like heroes, and news of the
battle brought joy to every loyal heart. Washington heard of it when on
his way to take command of the army.
"Did the Americans stand fire?" was his first question.
"Yes," was the answer.
"Then," said he, "the liberties of the country are safe."
SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
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