Two of the enemy's horse turned into his track after him ; and, gaining fast upon him, he asked them if they would give him quarter; they replied, "Yes, you dog, we will quarter you." This was twice repeated, when Mayhew, finding them inflexible, determined to give them one shot before he was quartered ; and, turning round, discharged his piece at the first horseman, who cried out, " The rascal has broken my leg ;" when both of them turned their horses round, and went off, leaving Mayhew at liberty to tread back his path to the road, and come off.''^

Thacher, in his Military Journal, thus describes the action. " February, 1780, Lieutenant Colonel Thompson had the command of about two hundred and fifty men, as an advanced par-

» Heath's Mem. p. 229.

Vol. L - 45

254 HISTORY OF THE

ty, on onr lines. He was instructed to be constantly alert, and in motion, that the enemy might not be able to take advantage, and form a plan for his destruction. It happened, however, that a detachment of British, Hessians, and mounted refugees, were discovered advancing towards him, but on account of a very deep snow obstructing the road, they marched slowly, and Col. Thompson resolved to defend his ground. The enemy's horse first advanced and commenced skirmishing till their infantry approached, when a sliarp conflict ensued, which continued about fifteen minutes; some of our troops manifested symptoms of cowardice, and gave way. The enemy secured the advantage, and rushed on with a general shout, wliich soon decided the contest. The Americans lost thirteen men killed, and Captain Roberts,^ being mortally wounded, soon expired ; seventeen others were wounded. Lieut. Col. Thompson, and six other officers, with eighty-nine rank and file, were made prisoners. Of the enemy, two officers and eighteen men were wounded ; and five men killed. ''t»