From Diary of the American Revolution, Vol I. Compiled by Frank Moore and published in 1859.
On the late alarm at Elizabethtown, when an immediate attack of the regulars was expected,1 and every man, capable of bearing arms, was summoned to defend it, there were three or four young men (brothers) going out from one house, when an elderly lady, mother or grandmother to the young men, without betraying the least signs of timidity, with a resolute calmness encouraged and assisted them to arm. When they were ready to go, and just setting out, she addressed them thus: —
“My children, I have a few words to say to you; you are going out in a just cause to fight for the rights and liberties of your country. You have my blessing and prayers, that God will protect and assist you. But if you fall; his will be done. Let me beg of you, my children, that if you fall, it may be like men; and that your wounds may not be in your back parts.”2
1 The regulars attempted an attack on the 3d of July.
2 Pennsylvania Evening Post, August 10.