Putnam's departure for the front was decidedly extemporaneous. The response of his patriotic heart was quick when his comrades asked him to join them against George III. The legend of his leaving the plow, like Cincinnatus the old Roman, to fight against the enemy is one of the cheeriest events of our history. Quick decisions such as dropping the plow handles to clasp a gun were characteristic of Putnam. Many stories of his daring are told.
