In such straits did the army of the United Colonies go forth to war.

By avoiding battles and other causes for using munitions, they not only kept their original supply, but added to it as fast as their appeals were listened to.

Washington kept his lines around Boston firm.

In the autumn General Gage was replaced, as British Commander-in-Chief, by Sir William Howe, whose brother Richard, Lord Howe, became Admiral of the Fleet.

But the Howes knew no way to break the strangle hold of the Americans.