Page 58
When does the story take place?
January of 1781
What does a drummer boy use his drum to do?
He uses it to give orders to the sodliers.
How can you tell Alex is afraid to do what his father asks?
His knees shake, and he has a lump in his stomach.
Why does the soldier ask if Alex is a friend of the rebels or of the king?
The soldier is a guard for the British camp.
Who does the soldier speak to inside the tent? (pg. 62)
Who does Alex pretend the drum is for?
General Washington
What does Alex do that shows he is surprised by his father?
He jumps when his father touches his hair.
What is Alex afraid of doing? Why?
He is afraid of talking to strangers because he may stutter.
Why does Alex stutter and not answer?
He is afraid. He doesn't want to lie.
What does the soldier have for the general? (pg. 62)
Why do you think Alex's eyes sparkle as he makes his drum?
He is doing something he enjoys.
Who is at the British camp?
General Cornwallis
What has Mr. McDonald decided to do?
What makes the other soldier think Alex is frightened?
Alex stutters as he starts to answer the question.
Why does Alex lean toward the tent flap? (pg. 63)
so he can hear better
What does the chapter title "Patriot Spy" tell you?
Someone in the story will be a spy for the Patriots.
Why is it important for Alex to look around the enemy camp?
He might get helpful information.
What do you learn about Mr. McDonald from his face?
He is kind.
How does Alex escape the problem of having to answer the guard?
The other soldier interrupts them and takes Alex to get his pay for the supplies.
What are the British plans? (pg. 63)
to destroy Daniel Morgan's Army
What speech problem does Alex have?
He stutters.
How do you think Alex feels about his father?
He loves and respects his father because he smiles and is willing to do anything to help him.
Even though he is afraid, what does Alex promise his father?
He will do his best.
Is the British camp a pleasant place to live? How do you know?
No. It is muddy. The tents are small. The hungry men shiver and sleep on wet, dirty straw.
What does Alex think he must do? (pg. 63)
warn his father