The skirmishers under Greene, seconded by Hand, after doing gallant service and covering themselves with glory by delaying the advance for several hours, giving Washington ample time to withdraw his army across the Assunpink and post it in a strong defensive position, had retired in good order beyond the American line.

In the skirmish Lieutenant Von Grothausen, he who had galloped away with the dragoons at Trenton and had been under suspicion of cowardice ever since, had somewhat redeemed his reputation in that he had boldly ridden down upon the riflemen, and had been killed.

It was late in the evening when the advance parties crossed the bridge over the creek and sought safety behind the lines.

Indefatigable General Knox had concentrated thirty pieces of cannon at the bridge--"A very pretty battery," he called it.
It was dusk when the eager Americans saw the head of the British army coming through the streets.

They remained silent while the enemy formed, and advanced to attack the bridge and the fords in heavy columns at the same time.