George Bancroft, History of the United States from the Discovery of the American Continent, Vol. 7, 4th edition.

[137] arms, that New England was conspiring for independ-

Chap. XII.} 1774. Sept.

ence. It was, moreover, insinuated, that if Massachusetts should once resume its old charter, and elect its governor, all New England would unite with her, and become strong enough to absorb the lands of other governments; that New Hampshire would occupy both slopes of the Green Mountains; that Massachusetts would seize the western territory of New York; while Connecticut would appropriate northern Pennsylvania, and compete with Virginia for the West.

Out of Boston the power of Gage was at an end. In the county of Worcester, the male inhabitants from the age of sixteen to seventy, formed themselves into companies and regiments, chose their own officers, and agreed that one-third part of the enrolled should hold themselves ready to march ‘at a minute's warning.’ ‘In time of peace, prepare for war,’ was the cry of the country. The frugal New England people increased their frugality. ‘As for me,’ wrote the wife of a member of congress, ‘I will seek wool and flax, and work willingly with my hands.’ Yet the poorest man in his distress would not accept employment from the British army; and the twelve nearest towns agreed to withhold from the troops every supply beyond what humanity required. But all the province, even to Falmouth, and beyond it, shared the sorrows of Boston, and cheered its inhabitants in their sufferings. ‘This much injured town,’ said the wife of John Adams, ‘like the body of a departed friend, has only put off its present glory, to rise finally to a more happy state.’ Nor did its citizens despair. Its newly elected representatives