and opposed to the royal cause. He was, therefore, narrowly watched,
and even found it necessary to hide himself at a brother-in-law's in
the Highlands. Nor was he even here secure, for on the second night
after reaching his brother-in-law's residence, a musket was discharged
through the window at him, the ball of which grazed his neck, and tore
the collar of his coat.

"It was apparent from this circumstance that his retreat was known; but
it was rendered quite certain a few nights after, by the appearance of
an armed gang at the door, who having burst in, dragged Crosby's
brother-in-law from the bed, and demanded where Crosby slept.

"This information, for a time, was refused; but at length, death was
threatened, in case of refusal, and his bed chamber was pointed out.

"Crosby heard the coming of the assailants, and sprung to his gun;
but, before he could reach it, a ruffian had snapped a pistol at his
head. Fortunately, it missed fire--but _now_ a most desperate
engagement followed, in which Crosby showed the most astonishing
strength and agility--but numbers, at length, overpowered him, and he
was left for dead.

"Life, however, was not extinct. And after the ruffians had retired,
Crosby in a measure came to himself; but months passed away before he
was able to resume the business, in which he had been engaged. Indeed,
after this period, less was required. The long and bloody contest was
in a measure drawing to a close. Liberty, for which so many had fought
and bled, was destined to take up her delightful abode on the American
soil.