to his own wishes and worthy of his entire confidence. They were the pride
of his heart, and he was the idol of their regard; constantly panting for
an opportunity of performing some signal achievement worthy of his and
their own character. The corps was probably equal for discipline and
bravery, to any in the world."

Early in the year 1781, LAFAYETTE was detached with about twelve hundred
troops to Virginia; with a view to co-operate with the French fleet in
checking the plundering expedition of General Arnold, who had then recently
landed there with a body of British troops from New-York. The Marquis
performed this long and difficult march with great dispatch. Many of the
soldiers under his command were deficient in clothing: and it was by the
personal responsibility of General LAFAYETTE that funds were raised in
Baltimore and vicinity to remedy this evil. The credit of the continent was
very low; and its means of immediate payment of the public expenses known
to be entirely inadequate. The generosity of this distinguished friend of
liberty was as remarkable as his personal bravery. He was indeed, both as
to life and estate, wholly devoted to the cause of America; and
difficulties and dangers served only to manifest the sincerity and
intenseness of his zeal in behalf of a people struggling for freedom.

Soon after this, in the month of May, 1781, Lord Cornwallis, in his
progress from North Carolina into Virginia, formed a junction with the
British forces under Arnold and Phillips. His object was immediately to
crush the Americans under LAFAYETTE, then encamped near Richmond. The
experienced British Commander thought it would be an easy matter with his
superior numbers to secure the "Young Frenchman." But the youthful soldier
was not wanting in prudence and foresight, though ardour and courage were
his predominant qualities. In these traits of character, as well as others,
he was not unlike the "paternal chief" of the American army. LAFAYETTE made