We walked down the dock and climbed down into the boat. Six oarsmen sat at their stations and a man at the rear. Forty of us, trying not to rock the boat sat down, our muskets held between our legs.

With a push we were away from the dock. And with each stroke we rode forward and then coasted while rowers recovered. The helmsman began to chant a slow tune, and the rowers kept time.

Farewell and adieu to you Spanish ladies
Farewell and adieu to you ladies of Spain
For we’ve received orders to sail from New England
And we hope in a short time to see you again

Col. Haslet, of the 1st Deleware was standing in the prow of a boat carrying half his men across. As he turned to face his men, the oarsmen took another stroke. He lost his balance and fell into the water and ice. When they finally fished him out his teeth was chattering and he looked as pitiable a half drowned kitten.

We reached the dock and disembarked. We were now on the enemy side of the river.