November 26th, 1775 — Sunday
This day, continued work on earthworks and drilled on the square. I am apprehensive about the use of the firelock, and pray I acquit myself well in the day of trial.
In Boston, we should not undertake such labor on the Sabbath.
The inhabitants of Norfolk turned out to watch us drill, alarmed by our volleys. Upon their countenances, looks of apprehension. For some hours, they surveyed us. The men wear red rags sewn to their chests, which has been lately required of them as proof of their oaths to the Crown and to Lord Dunmore. I do not venture to say whether their hearts are as stalwart in our support as their chests suggest. I perceive that they little relish the marching of Negroes before them with firearms.
Boys call out names as we pass on the streets.