But the element of surprise is gone. Hancock wants to stay and fight and is arguing with Adams. As dawn nears, Hancock is persuaded to flee. Hancock has forgotten a large trunk stuffed with secret papers. He and Revere hurry to Buckman Tavern.
British officers order the militia to disperse.
As the Minutemen comply, a shot is fired. Revere, lugging Hancock's trunk into the woods with Lowell, hears the shot but can't see who fired it. The British troops begin firing volleys, and a few militia shoot back. The American Revolution has begun. Later that morning, British troops march to Concord and split up to secure the North and South Bridges.