The Columbiad by Joel Barlow — Read

British cruelty to American prisoners -- Prison Ship -- Retreat of Washington with the relics of his army, pursued by Howe -- Washington recrossing the Delaware in the night, to surprise the British van, is opposed by uncommon obstacles -- His success in this audacious enterprise lays the foundation of the American empire -- A monument to be erected on the bank of the Delaware -- Approach of Burgoyne, sailing up the St. Lawrence with an army of Britons and various other nations -- Indignant energy of the colonies, compared to that of Greece in opposing the invasion of Xerxes -- Formation of an army of citizens under the command of Gates -- Review of the American and British armies, and of the savage tribes who join the British standard -- Battle of Saratoga -- Story of Lucinda -- Second battle, and capture of Burgoyne and his army.

But of all tales that war's black annals hold The darkest, foulest still remains untold; New modes of torture wait the shameful strife, And Britain wantons in the waste of life.