Early in August he had to make a venturesome stroke to get sorely needed food.

Some twenty-five miles east of the Hudson at Bennington, in difficult country, New England militia had gathered food and munitions, and horses for transport.

The pressure of need clouded Burgoyne's judgment.

To make a dash for Bennington meant a long and dangerous march.

He was assured, however, that a surprise was possible and that in any case the country was full of friends only awaiting a little encouragement to come out openly on his side.