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Meanwhile events were hastening forward with a ruthless speed that was sadly disconcerting to those who had not yet made up their minds what part to
House of Betty Ross, Where the First Flag Was Made play. Washington was appointed commander of the national forces, and joined the army before Boston, taking with him the first American flag, which then bore in the corner a red and blue cross in place of the thirteen stars. Paul Jones hoisted his rattlesnake flag—no pleasing emblem—over one of the new American cruisers. The troops drilling in Philadelphia demanded from the Assembly money for arms, accoutrements, and support. Lead was so scarce that all the fine old standing clocks were robbed of their weights, and stood mute and helpless in their corners. The battle of Bunker Hill added to the general agitation; the departure of the English