Ellen W. Leroe

Ellen W. Leroe created her first picture book at the age of seven, and has been writing ever since. Growing up in New Jersey, she now lives in San Francisco with fantastic views of the water and the Bay Bridge from her office. She’s written over thirty books for children of all ages, and considers that play, and not work. Other loves include reading for hours, collecting tiny typewriters, exercising faithfully, and taking long walks around the city. There’s more information about Ellen at www.ellenleroe.com.

Sally Hinkley

Sally Hinkley grew up in a home full of books. It was only natural that she would become a children’s book illustrator. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband, their two children, and their dog, Mia. This is her first children’s book. Visit www.sallyhinkley.com to learn more about Sally and her artwork.

Colonists are preparing for a confrontation with the Redcoats as tension grows in Lexington. Daniel Brown wants to help but he’s too young to train with the militia on Lexington Common. An unexpected turn of events finds Daniel face-to-face with one of the most famous heroes of the American Revolution. Will Daniel prove that even a young boy can help the Patriot cause?

Twin Lights Publishers, Inc.

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Book design bySYP Design & Production, Inc.www.sypdesign.com

$16.95

Daniel Brown

By Ellen W. Leroe

Illustrated by Sally Hinkley

at the Battle of Lexington

Daniel Brownat the Battle of Lexington

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Daniel Brownat the Battle of Lexington

By Ellen W. Leroe

Illustrated by Sally Hinkley

Twin Lights PublishersRockport, Massachusetts

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Story copyright © 2012 by Ellen W. LeroeIllustrations copyright © 2012 by Sally Hinkley

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.

First published in the United States of America by:

Twin Lights Publishers, Inc.8 Hale StreetRockport, Massachusetts 01966Telephone: (978) 546-7398http://www.twinlightspub.com

ISBN: 978-1-934907-11-5

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

AcknowledgmentsMany thanks to Patrick Leehey of the Paul Revere House for his invaluable help and advice regarding Paul Revere. – Ellen W. Leroe

I would like to thank S. Brannen and GBIG; Donald MacDonald; Joel Bohy; Christine Hajjar and the Norfolk Hunt Club; and Saddle Rowe for sharing their knowledge. – Sally Hinkley

DedicationsTo three members of the Lincoln Minute Men, who provided their knowledge of Paul Revere’s capture to help make my book as historically accurate as possible: Steve McCarthy, Captain; Donald L. Hafner, Drum Major; Bill Poole. – Ellen W. Leroe

For my family – Sally Hinkley

Book design bySYP Design & Production, Inc.http://www.sypdesign.com

Printed in China

Daniel picked up Ben’s drum and beat out a sharp rat-a-tat-tat. He knew the basic calls, like

“Assembly” and “To Arms,” from watching his older brother practice with the militia.

Ben scowled at Daniel. “You’re not supposed to do that during our drills.”

“But I want to march with you when the Redcoats come to Lexington,” said Daniel.

“A scared boy of ten?” Ben said, shaking his head.

“I’m not afraid!” Daniel exclaimed. “I’m a good shot, too.”

“War is not a game,” Ben replied. “We don’t want to fight England, but we must stand up for our rights.”

“It’s not fair.” Daniel kicked the grass. “You’re the training band’s drummer, and Solomon and Father both carry muskets.”

Daniel had to somehow convince Father that he was old enough to help the militia.

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It was only mid-April, yet the grass was green and fruit trees blossomed. Father was in the field plowing. Daniel brushed Reuben while he waited for Father in the barn.

“These are dangerous times, boy,” he whispered. “When Mr. Revere and the Sons of Liberty tossed that tea into Boston Harbor, King George closed the ports and sent in more soldiers. Since then it’s only gotten worse. Father says the colonies are like a teakettle ready to boil over.”

Daniel frowned. “Oh Reuben, I hope Father will listen to me and understand I want to help.”

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When Father entered the barn, Daniel spoke nervously. “I know I’m not old enough to join the militia but I’m just as brave!”

“Bravery has nothing to do with it, son. War is dangerous and you are much too young.”

Father had nothing more to say.

Days passed and tension in the village grew. It was rumored that the Redcoats were preparing to capture the two most important Rebel leaders, Samuel Adams and John Hancock. They were staying at Reverend Clarke’s house in Lexington. It was believed that the Redcoats would then march to Concord and seize the militia’s guns and powder.

“Paul Revere will ride and warn us so our militia can be ready,” Father assured the family.

Late that afternoon, Solomon returned from market with alarming news. “A patrol of armed officers is heading this way!” he exclaimed.

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That evening, Father stood guard outside Reverend Clarke’s while Mother restlessly paced back and forth at home.

There was a knock at the door. A scout had come to fetch Solomon to help track the officers.

“Take me with you,” Daniel pleaded, but Solomon refused.

Minutes later Mother handed Daniel a satchel. In a worried voice she said, “Father must be tired and hungry. Take Reuben and deliver this to him.”

Here was his chance to help! He’d make a quick stop at the Reverend’s, then ride to Concord to find his brother.

Daniel hadn’t been riding long after making his delivery when he heard loud shouts. Rounding a bend, he found Solomon surrounded by officers!

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“Solomon!” Daniel cried.

Reuben reared. The soldiers turned and saw Daniel.

“Get him!”

Two officers seized Daniel.

“Why, it’s only a lad,” one said.

“Let him go!” Solomon yelled.

But instead the officers led Daniel over to join Solomon.

“Dismount and gather in the pasture,” an officer commanded.

Daniel sank onto the grass, his stomach churning while the officers asked Solomon many questions about the militia’s supplies in Concord.

Daniel sat so quietly and still that the officers paid no attention to him.

Now is my chance to go for help, he thought. And without being seen he slipped silently behind a tree.

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Daniel pressed against the tree when he heard horses approaching. Another rider had been captured!

Daniel’s eyes widened when he saw the rider’s face. It was Paul Revere!

“What is your name?” an officer demanded.“My name is Revere.”“Paul Revere, the express rider?” “Yes,” said Paul Revere. “And I know what you are

after. I have warned the whole countryside.”“Liar!” the officer shouted.“I speak the truth. We have 500 men gathering,” Paul

Revere calmly replied. “Well, we have 1,500 men coming!” the officer

snapped.

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Daniel bit his lip. He was frightened, but if he could just get past the officers, he knew a shortcut to the Reverend’s house where his father was standing guard.

But then, a hand reached around the tree and grabbed his collar.

Captured! Yelling and kicking, he tried to break free.

“Daniel, stop!” Solomon shouted.

The officers ordered the men to mount their horses and hand their reins over to them. They placed Paul Revere in the lead with Daniel next to him.

“Child, what brings you here?” Paul Revere softly asked.

Daniel straightened. “I’m not a child. I’m helping the Patriot cause!”

Paul Revere gave a startled laugh. “I misjudged you. I should have recognized a Liberty Boy.”

Daniel felt his face warm with pride. Mr. Revere called him a member of his secret organization!

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As they approached Lexington, a loud gunshot split the air. A heavy cascade of firing muskets followed.

“What is the meaning of this?” an officer demanded.“It’s a signal to alarm the country,” Paul Revere answered.“Halt,” the officer commanded. He moved aside to speak with

his men.

“It looks like we’ll be freed soon,” Paul Revere assured Daniel. “The officers must get word to their superiors that the militia is waiting.”

The officer returned. “Everyone, except you, Revere, get off your horses and go home!” He then shooed the horses away.

Daniel gasped as he watched Reuben gallop down the road.

What was to become of Mr. Revere and Reuben? he wondered.

1918

When they arrived at Lexington Common, Daniel spotted his friend Peter on the steps of Buckman Tavern. Many of the militiamen were there, too.

Daniel turned to join them. “Not so fast,” Solomon said. “You did a reckless thing tonight.”

“I–I’m sorry,” Daniel stammered. “I wanted to do my part.”

“Go home, little brother. Leave the fighting to the men,” Solomon said as he joined the militia.

Daniel was crushed. He’d never be able to do anything to help.

“Daniel! Daniel!” he heard Peter calling his name and he waved at him.

Daniel walked to the tavern steps, wiping away angry tears. Whatever happened, he vowed he wasn’t leaving.

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Hours passed and the militia grew anxious.

Then, just as dawn broke, they heard a shout, “The Regulars are out and coming fast!”

Captain Parker quickly commanded Ben to beat “To Arms.” Father positioned himself in the front line while Solomon joined a group of men behind a stone wall.

A hush fell.

Daniel felt his heart pounding as he stood motionless on the steps. In the distance came the heavy thud of marching boots. He bowed his head and whispered, “Please, God, keep my father and brothers safe.”

Looking up, Daniel was surprised to see Paul Revere and another man leaving Buckman Tavern with a very large trunk. The officers must have released Mr. Revere!

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Daniel watched as Paul Revere and his friend struggled with the weight of the trunk. “They must hurry before the Redcoats spot them,” he said under his breath.

They had just passed through the militia when they stopped and hesitated as though they were unsure where to go.

Worried that they would be captured by the approaching Redcoats, Daniel darted toward them.

“Daniel, come back!” Peter cried.

Daniel ran as fast as he could through the Common and toward the two men when he heard his father shout his name.

Daniel swiftly made his way to him and said in a hushed voice, “I need to help Mr. Revere.”

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Daniel reached the two men just as they turned the corner of a house.

Paul Revere recognized Daniel immediately and pulled him toward him.

The Redcoats were now on the Common.

They could hear the sounds of horses rearing and officers shouting orders. It all seemed loud and frightening.

Then, an officer shouted, “Throw down your arms, you rebels and villains!”

Captain Parker responded, “Fall out, men. Let them pass.”

A dull boom sounded, followed by a billow of smoke. Then a crackling sound exploded into a roar as more shots were fired.

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Frightened, Daniel shouted, “I know a shortcut through his fields if you’re heading to Reverend Clarke’s house.”

Paul Revere didn’t hesitate. “Lead the way, but lad, tell me, did you see who fired first?”

Daniel shook his head.

Paul Revere looked to his friend and together they picked up the trunk.

Daniel led them to the dirt road and through muddy fields until they reached the woods near the Reverend’s house.

Sitting down on the trunk and catching his breath, Paul Revere said to Daniel, “You know, lad, this trunk carries important documents that shouldn’t fall into the Redcoats’ hands. You’ve done a great service today.”

Daniel beamed. “Thank you, Mr. Revere.”

Daniel shook Paul Revere’s hand and then raced back toward the Common, anxious to get back to his father.

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As quickly as it started, the battle was over.

The Redcoats lowered their weapons and slowly reassembled on the Common.

It wasn’t long before the rhythmic sound of their marching boots was heard once again. This time, they were headed to Concord.

Daniel met Father and Solomon in front of Buckman Tavern. Ben hurried over to join them. Father held his boys tight.

“Praise God you’re all safe.”

He gave them another firm hug and said, “Come boys, we must check on Mother.”

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Mother heaved a sigh of relief as she embraced her family.

Father stepped back and gently grasped Daniel’s shoulder. “You did a brave thing this morning by helping Mr. Revere. That took courage. But your brothers and I must leave now and rejoin the militia.”

“But —” Daniel protested, until Father handed him his musket.

“Can I trust you to protect Mother while we’re away?” he asked.

“Yes, Father!” Daniel said proudly.

“But first,” Mother said with a smile, “Reuben needs to be watered and fed.”

Daniel’s eyes lit up. In all the excitement he had forgotten about Reuben. He turned and raced to the barn.

“Reuben,” he shouted as he flung open the doors.

Reuben snorted when he saw Daniel.

“It’s good to see you, too!” Daniel said happily, stroking Reuben’s nose.

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Daniel Brown is a fictional character. Solomon Brown, however, was an actual 18-year-old boy who lived in Lexington in 1775. The events that happened to him in this story are true — the night patrol of the British officers, his capture and release along with Paul Revere, and his fighting at the Battle of Lexington.

And the strange story of Paul Revere and the trunk? That really occurred, too, but without the help of Daniel! John Hancock’s trunk made it safely back to him and today it is held by the Worcester Historical Museum in Massachusetts and is often loaned out to museums. Be on the lookout if you want to see this unusual piece of history.

And what about Paul Revere? Interestingly, Revere did not become famous until more than 40 years after his death when Henry Wadsworth Longfellow published his poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride.” But did you know he was not the sole alert rider that fateful night? He was joined by two other men who fanned the countryside, warning the townspeople that “The Regulars are out!” You can learn more about Paul Revere by visiting The Paul Revere House in Boston, Massachusetts.

And lastly, what happened after the Battle of Lexington? Later that day Minutemen assembled at the North Bridge in Concord to stop the Regulars from seizing the town’s military supplies. Militia and Minutemen drove the Regulars back to Boston, and the official war between England and America had begun. Today, the towns of Lexington and Concord commemorate these battles with reenactments on Patriots’ Day using period weapons and clothing. If you pay really close attention, you’ll even see Paul Revere and his friend crossing the Common with Hancock’s trunk!

Afterword

Ellen W. Leroe

Ellen W. Leroe created her first picture book at the age of seven, and has been writing ever since. Growing up in New Jersey, she now lives in San Francisco with fantastic views of the water and the Bay Bridge from her office. She’s written over thirty books for children of all ages, and considers that play, and not work. Other loves include reading for hours, collecting tiny typewriters, exercising faithfully, and taking long walks around the city. There’s more information about Ellen at www.ellenleroe.com.

Sally Hinkley

Sally Hinkley grew up in a home full of books. It was only natural that she would become a children’s book illustrator. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband, their two children, and their dog, Mia. This is her first children’s book. Visit www.sallyhinkley.com to learn more about Sally and her artwork.

Colonists are preparing for a confrontation with the Redcoats as tension grows in Lexington. Daniel Brown wants to help but he’s too young to train with the militia on Lexington Common. An unexpected turn of events finds Daniel face-to-face with one of the most famous heroes of the American Revolution. Will Daniel prove that even a young boy can help the Patriot cause?

Twin Lights Publishers, Inc.

DA

NIE

L B

RO

WN

AT T

HE

BATT

LE O

F LEX

ING

TO

N E

LLEN

W. LE

RO

E • SA

LLY H

INK

LEY

TW

IN LIG

HT

S puB

LISHE

RS

Book design bySYP Design & Production, Inc.www.sypdesign.com

$16.95

Daniel Brown

By Ellen W. Leroe

Illustrated by Sally Hinkley

at the Battle of Lexington

Daniel Brownat the Battle of Lexington