route," remarked Colson.

"However," observed Kinnison, "the enemy didn't get off whole-skinned. I
have heard that they had more than 200 killed. It was a hard-fought
battle, and considering all circumstances, no men could have behaved
better than our militia did. You see, young men, after they recovered
from the confusion of the first attack, they found they had no
ammunition save what they had in their cartouch-boxes. Their
baggage-wagons were in possession of the enemy, and they could get no
water, which was in great demand in such warm weather. To fight five or
six hours under such circumstances was certainly noble conduct."

"Another point is to be taken into consideration. The enemy were much
superior in numbers," said Colson.

"Of course; that's very important," replied Ranson.

"I suppose there was little mercy shown by either party. There was too
much hateful fury," said Hand.

"You're right," remarked Colson. "Few tories received quarters from the
militia, and fewer of the militia asked it of the tories."

"Herkimer should have been more cautious. Though a brave soldier, we
cannot consider him a good commander," said Pitts.

"Nay, I think he was a good commander, friend Pitts," replied Hanson.
"He was cool-headed and skilful in the hottest battle; and because he
neglected sending out scouts on one occasion, you should not conclude
that imprudence was part of his character."