Page:Historic towns of the middle states (IA historictownsofm02powe).pdf/136

 colonies sent their delegates to New York, where they concerted measures for the common defence. This was the first general American Congress. To abandon Schenectady would be to encourage the enemy, to endanger the whole province by discouraging its allies, the Iroquois or Five Nations, causing them to distrust the valor and prowess of the English arms, and possibly to embrace the oft proffered alliance of the French. Schenectady must be held, cost what it might. The survivors finally concluded to stay. Twenty-four of the freeholders subscribed to a paper, stating:

"In the first place, it is agreed to resort to the North Fort to secure our bodies and defend them.

"Secondly, that the crops or fruits of the earth—that is, the winter grain, shall be in common for the use of all, and all the mowing lands for this year.

"Thirdly, the widows shall draw their just due and portions.

"If any one will voluntarily depart or draw up for Canada, he shall yet have his full share and the benefits.

"Every one that shall stand to these articles shall obey the orders of their officers, on the penalty of such punishment as shall be seasonable, without expecting any favor, grace or dissimulation."

The survivors began the work of reconstruction and defence. Every able-bodied