St. Nicholas v. 13 No. 9 July 1886 An Illustrated Magazine for Young Folks

A spirited French aristocrat defies his king, his family and even diplomatic warnings to chase a daring dream across the Atlantic. In February 1777 he slips aboard a ship with a handful of trusted companions, landing in South Carolina with nothing but a fierce belief in liberty and a promise to fight without pay. The fledgling American Congress, impressed by his boldness, grants him a commission, and he quickly proves his courage on the battlefield, earning General Washington’s admiration.

Soon an unlikely friendship blossoms between the young French general and a learned Connecticut adjutant who can translate his passionate French into clear orders for the troops. Their bond deepens amid campaigns and hardships, showcasing a blend of youthful exuberance and steadfast devotion to a shared cause. Listeners will be drawn into the early days of an unforgettable alliance that helped shape a nation’s fight for independence.