The British Are Coming

Cal heard the words announcing the coming of the British ringing through the night wind. He watched as everyone around him moved into action, shutting up businesses and locking doors, readying for the arrival of the expected but uninvited guests.

Cal was more excited than afraid. His own father had left months earlier to help any way he could the Patriots whom he believed were fighting for a new way of life. Cal had been left with his mother to help run the small printing press, which released news about the many changes and events that were destined to shape the future of the colonies.

Hurrying home, Cal wondered if his father knew what was happening and if he was safe. He hoped so. Cal’s mother was waiting for him at the door of their house. The minute he arrived, she shut the door behind him and asked him what news he had heard. He quickly relayed the words he had heard shouted from the rider as he made his way through the streets of the town.

The meal that night was sparse—only bread and cheese—as both mother and son were too anxious to eat. A knock on the door brought them both abruptly to their feet. Who could be at their door at this late hour, Cal wondered.

Before his mother could stop him, Cal unlocked the wooden door and pulled it back. He could not contain the smile that broke across his face when he saw who the visitor was.

“Father! You’re home!”

His mother ran to the door, tears sliding down her cheeks. “George, is everything alright?” Cal’s mother questioned him.

“I do not know how things will turn out, but mark my words, tonight is the start of a revolution. There is no turning back from tonight’s events.”