It's early morning on December 26, 1776, in the middle of a tempestuous snow storm.

Dozens of American soldiers from the 3rd Virginia Regiment have taken up position on the Northern

Edge of Trenton, New Jersey? The previous evening, General George Washington ordered these men

across the Delaware River in secret, with orders to hold their position. Among them was a

young officer. The soldier quietly leads Lieutenant to the rear of their ranks. A small group

of soldiers surround a civilian prisoner on his knees. His mouth is gagged. His hands are

bound. This man is his civilian private. This man tried to accost us. Who is he? A very

profane fellow who lives in a house just around the way. What's his name? I don't know, sir.

Remove the gag. But sir, that's an order private. As a private removes their restraint,

boah! What's your name, civilian? Dr. Riker. I have a practice in Trenton. Why did you

accost these men, doctor? I thought they were red coats. And why would you think that?

The whole town is crawling with Hessians and Brits. Who else would be stalking around at the

dead of night, armed to the teeth? They came onto my property, sir. You might have asked

them to identify themselves. I did. They refused me. I'm sorry for the inconvenience, but I assure

you, we have no interest in disturbing you or your home. We are Americans. Americans? Why

didn't you say so? Are you marching on Trenton? I'd love nothing more to see those Hessian

bastards get what's coming to them. My men will escort you home, doctor. In the interest

of your safety, please remain inside. If something is to happen tonight, then I am going

with you. I'm afraid that's out of the question. I won't take no for an answer. Sir, please,

I'm a doctor. If you were to take the fight to the Hessians, I might be able to help some

poor fellow. I have food and provisions as well. If you will allow me, I will happily distribute

them to you and your men before the fight. The young lieutenant sizes up the doctor for

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