Free Spirit of the Revolution by Debbie Peterson Page A

the outside lights on the second floor. She drank in the lights glowing from the windows in her family room, and those lights sang out a welcome.
    How very different from the many, many nights she returned home to an empty house or apartment and total darkness. Her gaze meandered over the property and then rested on the solitary soul, pacing along the veranda as if standing guard. Once she turned into the driveway, he halted his footsteps, gave her a courtly bow and the most charming grin she’d seen to date. Her heart skipped a couple of beats, knowing Mathias awaited her.

Chapter 6
    “So, Mathias, according to this book—which by the way, is authored by a greatly respected historian—Morgan’s Rangers were known as a rowdy, disrespectful, and fiercely independent group of men. The book also states that because of their wild and unruly behavior, Washington wouldn’t allow the Rangers to camp close to the main army for fear of the negative impact they’d breed among his own soldiers.” That’s not all the author said about these honorable, stalwart men. But— “What do you have to say about that assessment? And do remember this book comes complete with sources and documentation.”
    Mathias turned away from the large library window. He looked at her then, and for the briefest of moments, she glimpsed the Ranger that history revered. She caught her breath and held it as he shrugged off the claim. “Highly exaggerated.”
    “Oh, come on. Did you or did you not address your commanding officers by their given names as it so states right here on page nineteen, paragraph three?” She held the book aloft and repeatedly tapped the passage.
    “Certainly, just as they addressed us by ours. I see no disrespect in that,” he countered.
    “I suppose anyone else might have been court-martialed,” she murmured. “However, did you or did you not simply stand at ease while the regular soldiers stood at full attention when so ordered by their commanding officer?”
    “I believe we listened attentively to everything they said; therefore, what possible difference could our stance make in the outcome of things?”
    No longer able to withhold her laughter, Jo looked up from the book and said, “Oh, Mathias, it’s so easy for me to see you and the boys in this light. In fact, I bet you found yourself in your element.”
    “I’m assuming from the look of adoring admiration and respect in your eyes, you’re giving us a compliment?” He grinned wickedly, leaned toward her, and said, “I humbly accept it.”
    Jo merely laughed and returned to her book. As she lost herself in the pages, she discovered the impressive history surrounding Morgan’s Rangers. Truly, the men earned the respect and esteem they received, despite the playful banter just exchanged between them. Even William Howe, the British general, stated they were the most dangerous regiment in the American army. High praise indeed, coming from one’s enemy.
    The final chapter began with an historical document. She fixed her gaze on the passage. “Mathias—this book has a letter, originating from General George Washington’s headquarters in Middlebrook, dated June 13, 1777, which mentions the Rangers. Do you want me to read it to you?” Then, as she looked up from her book, she found herself surrounded by the rest of the boys. They gazed at her with anticipation.
    “Go on then, lass,” Sam encouraged as he plopped down on the edge of the desk. “Let’s give a listen to what General Washington had to say in his letter.”
    “All right.” Jo returned to the book. “The letter begins, and I quote—
    “‘ Sir:
    The Corps of Rangers, newly formed, and under your Command, are to be considered as a Body of Light Infantry and are to Act as such; for which reason they will be exempt from the common duties of the Line. At present, you are to take a Post at Van Veghten Bridge and watch, with very small Scouting Parties (to avoid fatiguing your Men to much, under