He swore by all that was sacred that they should not go; that the departure of so many of the men would endanger the possession of the fort and the lives of the remaining soldiers.

There were many of the soldiers in the same condition, whose term of service had expired.

They felt that they were free and enlightened Americans, and resented the idea of being thus enslaved and driven, like cattle, at the will of a single man.

Mutinous feelings were excited.

The camp was filled with clamor.