Page:History of Gardner, Massachusetts (1860) - Glazier.djvu/91

Rh twenty-eight, with the rank of ensign, in Capt. Dickinson's company, in Col. Benjamin Ruggles Woodbridge's regiment. His ambition, activity, and plausible manners covering the want of acquirements, joined with personal intrepidity, obtained promotion, and in 1776, he was appointed Lieutenant in Col. Varnum's regiment. At the time when the line peculiarly needed reinforcement, he was detached on the recruiting service, with the promise of some suitable reward for the enlistment of twenty men. For this purpose he visited his native state, and his unwearied exertions were crowned with ample success. When the complement assigndassigned [sic] to him was filled, a plan suggested itself for grasping honor and pay at once. Finding the pulse of patriotism beat high, and the men of New England were ready to devote themselves for their country, he continued his enlistments. Insinuating address and bold representations, produced impressions of his ability and influence, easily turned to his own advantage, and by holding out expectations of indulgence to those who should serve under his command, a company was raised, on the condition that he should be their captain. With these men he returned to the camp, where they were mustered. When the inspector was about to distribute them to different corps, Shays produced the enlistment papers; pointed to the condition which held them to serve under himself alone; and requested the appointment of Captain. The necessity of the times prevented the sacrifice of so many recruits, and after indignant remonstrances, it was deemed expedient to yield to his demands. The commission was promised, and issued after long delay, in September, 1779, to relate back to Jan. 1st, 1777. Such is the account tradition gives of his military rank. The honors, ill won, were not long worn. He was discharged