Here we are at the start of 2008, thinking once more of resolutions, new beginnings, and some endings. So I’m beginning this new year by adding to the ending of the episode of "Leslie’s Retreat." My aim was to limit "Major Pedrick’s Ride and Leslie’s Retreat" to the same number of lines Longfellow wrote in "Paul Revere’s Ride" as well as follow his rhythm and rhyme scheme. By doing that, something had to be left out..

Shame on me. I left out the incident with Sarah Tarrant, the only woman I found that had been quoted from the memorable activities of that day. From the articles I read, I tried to include all names still in use today in this area. Tarrant was not among them. Many women in the crowd at the North Bridge were active, shouting and throwing objects. (Tomatoes were mentioned, though I can’t picture tomatoes being thrown on February 26, 1775.).

Sarah was the only woman named. Apparently her shouts were loud and clear, noted by all, and had an obvious effect on Colonel Leslie. I decided that she had a right to have her part in the action described. Thus, this new ending, though well over the line limit, replaces the last four lines written in the previous issue.

They lowered the bridge; the Redcoats marched forth

With fife and drum, thirty rods to the north.

They kept their chins up; they showed British pride,

Though it was hard with shouts from the crowd.

Then, "Go home! Go home!" Sarah Tarrant cried,

From her window, her sharp voice extra loud.

Dishonored, Leslie’s troops marched on

To armed minutemen lined across the road.

Then, "Halt! About face! March! " They went on.

Back by Dame Sarah, who continued to goad.

"Fire at me, if you’re brave enough!"

She shook her turkey-wing duster as sword.

With harsh insults her words were rough,