Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/25

16 fifes and the rattle of drums telling that the soldiers were in motion, and the two girls urged their mothers forward lest they miss seeing any portion of the spectacle.

When they arrived at the common it was found that an exceeding large throng had assembled; only with difficulty could the ladies force a passage amid the many groups of men and boys which had halted on that side of Broad Way adjoining the parade ground, where were erected booths for the sale of such beverages and food as might find favor with the sight-seers.

Dorothy and Sarah would not have objected to remaining where the boys were indulging in rough sports of various kinds; but their mothers evidently believed it necessary to take positions among the ladies and gentlemen of the city, or, at least, with those who were in favor of the revolutionary movement, for there were very many people in New York on that day who believed that those who signed the Declaration had committed the grievous crime of treason.

Those who had marched in procession through the streets were massed at one end of the parade ground, the greater number remaining in line that there might be no delay in setting out for Bowling Green immediately the ceremonies were concluded; but here and there men came from the ranks to speak with friends or relatives among