Still not a shot came from the grim, eager, undeviating ranks of the Americans in re])ly to the reverberating volleys of the enem}% but thc}^ entered the works with the bayonet and they subdued the garrison at close quarters. Then the silence was broken. A cheer rang out, -- a cheer that reached the ears of the men on the British war-shi])s in the river, satisfying those good servants of King George that their own side had succeeded in repulsing their assailants. Xot till the guns of the fort were turned upon them by the Americans were they convinced of their error. Verplanck s Point was not taken from the enem\', and Washington soon abandoned Stony Point; but the value of Wa}'ne's brilliant deed was permanent, as it not only inspired the patriots throughout the countrv with renewed confidence, but won them increased respect from their foes. An interesting letter, written just after the battle of Stony Point by one who particiijated in that memorable action, was contributed to TJic Magazine of American History, several years ago, by the Hon. James W. Gerard. It was addressed to Doctor Daniel Sheldon, and dated July i, 1779. From its graphic pages we may be permitted to quote Ijriefly :

312 The Hudson River Perhaps you have heard of the prowess of our troops at Kingsferry, it may be from vague reports and hearsay. The morning of the 16'^'^ inst, General Wayne with a party of infantry attacked the enemy's works at Stony Point -- the garrison consisted of about six hundred men -- it being the dead of night they were not discovered until they had got within about sixteen rods of the works, the alarm was instantly given, but such was the dexterity of our men that they gained some part of the enemy's works before their picket guard.