higher seductions of the enemy, and betray his
employers."

During the war with the French and Indians,
American officers had learned the need of trained
men who could keep the commanders informed
both of the movements and of the plans of the
opposing forces. Washington had learned this
unforgetable lesson in Braddock's campaign, and,
as full commander and wholly responsible not only
for the immediate safety but for the future success
of his little army, he realized the necessity of obtaining
the most accurate information possible.

A corps collected from the best men in the army
was organized, and its command was given to
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Knowlton. He had
gained experience as a ranger in the French and
Indian War, and was noted for his coolness, skill, and
bravery at Bunker Hill. One hundred and fifty
men and twenty officers were considered sufficient
for the work assigned to this special corps, known
as Knowlton's Rangers. They were divided into
four companies. Two of the captains of these men
were chosen from Knowlton's own regiment; the
other two--one of them Nathan Hale--were
from other companies. There can be little doubt
that Nathan Hale was proud of his enrollment in
this brave corps.

[[73]]

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