The English are moving up the river; and the moment you see
the Whartons in safety, break up and join your troop. There will be good
service to be done when we meet, as Sir Henry is reported to have sent
out a real soldier in command. Reports must be made to the commandant at
Peekskill, for Colonel Singleton is withdrawn to headquarters, to
preside over the inquiry upon poor Wharton. Fresh orders have been sent
to hang the peddler if we can take him, but they are not from the
commander in chief. Detail a small guard with the ladies, and get into
the saddle as soon as possible."
Yours sincerely,
"PEYTON DUNWOODIE."
This communication entirely changed the whole arrangement. There was no
longer any motive for removing the body of Isabella, since her father
was no longer with his command, and Singleton reluctantly acquiesced in
an immediate interment. A retired and lovely spot was selected, near the
foot of the adjacent rocks, and such rude preparations were made as the
time and the situation of the country permitted. A few of the
neighboring inhabitants collected from curiosity and interest, and Miss
Peyton and Frances wept in sincerity over her grave. The solemn offices
of the church were performed by the minister, who had so lately stood
forth to officiate in another and very different duty; and Lawton bent
his head, and passed his hand across his brow, while the words that
accompanied the first clod were uttered.
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