One Female and Eleven Male Figures.
This historical tableau represents Ethan Allen at the entrance of Fort
Ticonderoga, ordering De la Place, the commandant of the fort, to
immediately surrender, in the name of the great Jehovah and the
Continental Congress. Around the door are gathered the soldiers of
Allen. De la Place and his wife stand upon the doorstep, partially
dressed, and, with looks of astonishment, inquire by what authority he
demands the surrender of the fort. The number of figures in this
picture is twelve. Ten of them represent American soldiers, and are
dressed in the continental uniform, which consists of a blue coat,
faced with buff, and ornamented with large brass buttons, buff vest
and breeches, white hose, low shoes, knee and shoe buckles, and black
chapeau, and each furnished with military equipments. Allen's costume
should be of finer material, with an addition of sash, epaulets,
plume, and side arms. De la Place has on red breeches, with a gilt
stripe, white silk hose, knee buckles, slippers, and wig, a red coat
upon his arm, and a sword in his right hand, the handle of which is
extended towards Allen. His wife is costumed in a white dress, a white
cap on her head, and hair hanging loosely over her shoulders. The
scenery of the piece consists of a frame covered with cloth, extending
across the stage, and rising from the floor to the ceiling, with a
door in the centre, and windows painted on either side, and placed
across the stage in the background. Mrs. De la Place's position is on
the door sill, her body inclined slightly forward, her left hand
holding a candlestick, in which is a lighted candle, her right hand
raised in front of her breast, eyes fixed on the face of Allen, while
the countenance expresses surprise and fear. The commandant stands on
the doorstep at the left of his wife, his left hand stretched out
before him, the right holding his sword; his eyes are fixed on those
of Allen, while his countenance expresses surprise and indignation.
Allen stands in front of him a little at the left, grasping his sword
in the right hand, which he raises over the head of the commandant,
whilst his left points to his soldiers; his countenance expresses
sternness and authority. The soldiers are standing on each side of the
door leaning carelessly upon their muskets. The accompanying music
should be that of the drum and fife. The light must be of medium
brilliancy, and come from the right of the stage.