Final answer:
During their retreat to Delaware, the American army cleverly avoided British detection and maintained appearances of normalcy, eventually crossing the Delaware River to achieve a surprise victory at Trenton, which bolstered the morale and prospects of the Colonial cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
During their retreat to Delaware, the Americans under General George Washington executed a daring maneuver to evade capture by the British forces, who had driven them from their fortified positions in Long Island. In a mix of subterfuge and stealth, Washington's army silently departed their camp with movements designed to deceive the British into believing they remained in position. The American retreat was aided by darkness, silence, and maintaining appearances, such as keeping campfires burning and having the Pennsylvanians simulate normal activity. This strategy culminated in a surprise attack on the Hessians in Trenton, New Jersey, after Washington's crossing of the Delaware River, which resulted in a significant morale-boosting victory. The big question that surrounded this period was whether the Colonial cause could survive after a series of setbacks; the success at Trenton provided a resounding affirmative answer.