320 HISTORY OF The enemy, perceiving that their shot and shells did little or no execution, formed under shelter of a small building near the- fort, and prepared to carry the works by assault. While the preparations were making, a flag was seen to approach the fort; all seemed inclined to admit it, when Murphy and Bartholomew Vrooman, who suspected that it was only an arti- fice to learn the actual strength of the garrison, and aware that for them at least there was no safety in capitulation, fired upon the flag. The flag retired and some soldiers were ordered to arrest Murphy ; hut so great was his popularity among the soldiers, that no one dared to obey. The flag approached a second time, and was a second time driven back by Murphy and his adherents. A white flag was then ordered to be raised in the fort, but Murphy threatened with instant death any one who should obey. The enemy sent a flag a third time, and on Murphy's turning to fire upon it, Wolsey presented his pistol and threatened to shoot him if he did ; — ^but not in the least intimidated by the major's threat, Murphy very delibe- rately raised his rifle, and pointing it towards him firmly replied, '^I will die before they shall have me prisoner." Maj. Wolsey then retired to his room, where he remained until Col. Yroomanwas dispatched in search of him. He was found covered up in bed, trembling like a leaf. Col. Vrooman accosted him : Was you sent here to sneak away so, when we are attacked by the Tories and Indians ? and do you mean to give up the fort to these bloody rascals ?" To which Maj. Yf olsey made no reply, but consented to yield up the command to Col. Vrooman. At this change of officers, unanimous joy pervaded the whole fort. And even the women smiled to behold the portly figure of Col. Vrooman stalking about the fort — directing and encouraging the soldiers in his melodious Low Dutch tones. The British officers now held a council of war, and after a short .consultation withdrew; and then proceeded down the
