The Dare Boys of 1776 - gebonden uitgave, pocketboek

Excerpt: ...said another soldier. "Don't worry on that score." "I'm not worrying about it, sir," said Dick . "Do you think you will fight when the time comes?" half-sneered another, rather evil-featured fellow, leering at Dick . "I'd be willing to wager that you'll do more running than fighting." "You might lose your money if you wagered it that way," said Dick , quietly, gazing steadily at the speaker. "I might, but I don't think I would," with a harsh laugh. "I don't think much of the bravery of the Americans , whether rebels or king's men. They are not the kind that make good soldiers." "I suppose you think that you are," said Dick , calmly. "I know it, sonny!" fiercely. "I've been tried in the fire, do you hear? I'm a veteran, and have seen service in the fields of Europe, India and Africa." "You seem to be great at blowing your own horn, at any rate," said Dick , quietly. And several of the other soldiers sitting near snickered, which seemed to anger the other very much. "Do you mean to insult me?" he cried, glancing fiercely at Dick . "Oh, no," coolly. "I was simply stating a fact, that is all." "Well, you had better be careful, that's all I have got to say!" snarled the redcoat, viciously. "If you weren't a boy, I would give you a thumping for what you have already said." "Don't let my youth hinder you," retorted Dick . "I will say this, that I think you will find the people of America as brave as those of your country or any other, and I think, too, that they will make as brave and effective soldiers." "That's right, youngster, hold up for your own people," said one of the soldiers approvingly. "The boy's all right, Coggins," to the ill-natured soldier. "You had no business talking as you did."...