La Citadelle
de Québec
LAN1022 FORT + TUMULI 23’ ERIC DUAN & NATALIE KO
LAN1022 FORT + TUMULI 23’ ERIC DUAN & NATALIE KO
Arnold’s Diary
December 31, 1775Time stays, they said. WeThe wind is howling, and the air feels crisp at dawn. The blizzard is picking up its rhythm. I couldn’t sleep last night with the overwhelming nervousness building up in my mind. Approaching the shore, I peeked from the small rounded window beside my bed. The Citadelle seems small looking out from the ship, and the hill looks bare. The strong wind and heavy snow added a bit of chaotic characteristic to the atmosphere, similar to what we had prepared for. It’s entirely whiteout, almost dreamlike. As we got ready, we loaded our weapons and sailed closer to the city. The Loyalists must have seen us coming; they have a good vantage point looking east, down to the St Lawrence River.
We docked, and my unit hiked up to the hill. The path is rocky and slippery, with a mixture of snow and ice. Our force marched closer, and when we were about 50 yards away from the city’s fortification, the British opened fire. We reacted and retaliated quickly with our musket and rifle. However, we were outnumbered. The General was shot, and many more were dead, wounded and captured. I was lucky and quick enough to duck under and safeguard myself at the nearby cliff. A few more attempts at penetrating Quebec’s defenses were made; however, it was unsuccessful, and we were forced to retreat. I was lucky as I escaped across the river. Although defeated, I believe that my battle isn’t over.
