But the haste, the disorder, even the tu-
mult, in the days immediately following the
order to depart, were extreme. Each regi-
ment had to be assigned its transports, each
Tory to find space for himself and his family,
and if possible his goods. There was sorting
of effects, bundling up of valuables, and
strenuous efforts to get all in safety before
Washington should bombard. Diarists agree
in the concise terms with which they describe
the town. Says Newell for the 8th : "The
town all hurry and commotion, the troops
with the Refugees and Tories all embarking."



The Evacuation 421

For the 9th he adds : "D°. D°. D°." And for
the 10th writes Lieutenant Barker : "Nothing
but hurry and confusion."

In the meantime the Americans at Dor-
chester strengthened their works, and fortified
one more eminence, which commanded the
channel. Washington did not wish to cannon-
ade the British, for if not attacked he saw
no advantage in attacking, lest the town
should be set on fire and burned. He there-
fore bided his time. All his action until now,
he wrote Hancock, was but preparatory to
taking post on Nook's Hill, a low promontory
which ran so far out upon Dorchester flats
that from its top cannon could enfilade the
British lines at the Neck, and could com-
mand almost any part of Boston. An attempt
to fortify it upon the night of the 9th was
betrayed by the folly of the men, who kindled
a fire and were dispersed by British cannon.
But by this Washington was not disturbed.
