Question

none of the british armies made it to albany. general st. legers army retreated and general burgoynes army was stopped by american forces at saratoga, new york. the saratoga campaign ended with two battles called the battles of saratoga. during these american victories, thousands of british soldiers surrendered. before the battles of saratoga, the british government and press were optimistic about putting down the rebellion in america. some british newspapers even predicted that the war would be over in the spring of 1777. given these impressions, how did the british government and press likely react to news of the british defeat at the battles of saratoga in the autumn of 1777? they were disheartened, but not shocked. they were unaware and unconcerned. they were optimistic and delighted. they were surprised and dismayed.

Explanation:

The British had high - hopes and were optimistic before the Battles of Saratoga. A major defeat would shatter such optimism. A surprise and dismaying result would be expected for the British government and press upon hearing of their loss.

Answer:

They were surprised and dismayed.