On the other hand, Ward, in a general order, ex- CHAP.

XL.

pressed thanks to "the officers and soldiers who be- 1775.

17.

haved so gallantly at the late action in Charlestown; June and in words which expressed the conviction of the American camp, he added, "we shall finally come off victorious, and triumph over the enemies of freedom and America." Washington, as he heard the narrative of the events of the day, was confirmed in his habitual belief that the liberties of America would be preserved. "Americans will fight," wrote Franklin on the occasion, to his English friends; "England has lost her colonies for ever."

END OF VOL. VII.