The drama of the American Revolution is brought to life through the eyes of Prudence Emerson, who tells this story from the rarely heard perspective of a Tory.

		January 22, 1775 It was cold again today, with a strong wind blowing. Verity and I pulled on our stockings and two petticoats, laced up our horrid corsets, and stepped into our warm woolen dresses. Because today was church, I tied a blue ribbon around my neck. I confess that I hoped to see Jeptha there. I also hoped that we should not have to endure any cold stares or unkind words. Papa says we must continue to attend church, for it would single us out even more should we not go . . . . The reverend was railing against the king and his treatment of the colonies. He compared King George with an angry, dictatorial father who beats his children. “Sir, you speak treason!” thundered Mr. Pratt, standing up. “He is our king, and we must be loyal to him. His troops will crush you if you do not –“ The Patriots roared back at him, and Papa grabbed Mr. Pratt and hustled him out the church door, with the rest of the Tories following. . . . I am beginning to be as angry as Papa. Months ago I sometimes wished Papa were more like the other fathers in our village, but I no longer wish that. They have shunned us; they have treated us unfairly; it is they who are stirring up trouble and who dumped all that tea in the harbor; they are the ones paying no taxes to our king, appointed by God to lead us; and it is they who will lead us into war.