He had to organize and stimulate the arming of privateers, which, by preying on British commerce, were destined to exercise such a powerful influence on the fate of the war.
It was neither showy nor attractive, such work as this, but it was very vital, and it was done.
By the end of July the army was in a better posture of defense; and then at the beginning of the next month, as the prospect was brightening, it was suddenly discovered that there was no gunpowder.
An undrilled army, imperfectly organized, was facing a disciplined force and had only some nine rounds in the cartridge-boxes.

Yet there is no quivering in the letters from headquarters.

Anxiety and strain of nerve are apparent; but a resolute determination rises over all, supported by a ready fertility of resource.

Couriers flew over the country asking for powder in every town and in every village.

A vessel was even dispatched to the Bermudas to seize there a supply of powder, of which the general, always listening, had heard.