QuakerGirl


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16 year-old Sally Wister kept a journal from 1777 to 1778. She wrote about things that happened during the Revolutionary War, describing the events of Valley Forge, the movements of the British Army around Philadelphia, and about the hero General George Washington.
 * Background: **

Oh, gracious! I am all alive with fear. The English have come out to attack our army. They are on Chestnut Hill, our army is three miles this side. What will become of us, only six miles distant? We are in hourly expectation of an engagement. I fear we shall be in the midst of it. Heaven defend us from so dreadful a sight. The battle of Germantown, and the horrors of that day, are recent in my mind. It will be sufficiently dreadful if we are only in hearing of the firing.
 * ENTRY ONE **
 * //December 5, 1777//**

//**June 3, 1778**// A horseman delivered this message: "Let the troop lie on their arms, and be ready to march at a moment's warning." He gave those orders to the sergeant. Every soldier was in motioned. I was a good deal frightened, and asked the reason. I was told the British were in motion, and was told "You may be very safe. The house is an excellent house to defend, only do you be still. If the British vanquish us, down on your knees, and cry, 'Bless the king!' If we conquer them, why you know you are safe." The moon broke through the heavy black clouds. No noise was perceived, save that which the horses made as they trotted over the wooden bridge. Echoes gave us back the sound...
 * ENTRY TWO **

We have heard an astonishing piece of news! That the English have entirely left the city!
 * ENTRY THREE **
 * //June 19, 1778//**

A horseman has just confirmed! They decamped yesterday. It is true. They have gone. Past a doubt... "And may they never, never return!"
 * //June 19, 1778, evening//**

Our brave, our heroic General Washington was escorted by fifty of the Life Guard, with drawn swords. Each day he acquires an addition to his goodness...
 * //June 20, 1778//**