Then Marched the Brave

Andy McNeal knows the hidden paths near his Manhattan home, but his mother doubts the courage of a boy who uses a crutch. In the summer of 1776, Janie measures service to the cause of freedom by physical strength. When Andy overhears her bitter response to a neighbor's loss, he climbs from his loft and goes to Ruth White, the friend who understands him. Their meeting beside the family beehives brings the public conflict into a small household's grief.

Harriet T. Comstock builds this children's historical story around the question of what bravery requires. Andy longs for the lessons and companionship of an absent master. Ruth passes on rumors that the man was a spy, while Andy insists on his friend's honesty. Their disagreement gives the story a moral problem alongside its suspense: whether loyalty and gathering information can serve an honorable purpose. Readers find a young person's wish to contribute tested through friendship, patience, and uncertainty.