I now, indeed, can control his
fate, and I pledge to you a word which has some influence with
Washington, that means shall be taken to prevent his recapture. But
from you, also, I exact a promise, that this interview, and all that has
passed between us, remain confined to your own bosom, until you have my
permission to speak upon the subject."
Frances gave the desired assurance, and he continued,--
"The peddler and your brother will soon be here, but I must not be seen
by the royal officer, or the life of Birch might be the forfeiture."
"Never!" cried Frances, ardently. "Henry could never be so base as to
betray the man who saved him."
"It is no childish game that we are now playing, Miss Wharton. Men's
lives and fortunes hang upon slender threads, and nothing must be left
to accident that can be guarded against. Did Sir Henry Clinton know that
the peddler had communion with me, and under such circumstances, the
life of the miserable man would be taken instantly; therefore, as you
value human blood, or remember the rescue of your brother, be prudent,
and be silent. Communicate what you know to them both, and urge them to
instant departure. If they can reach the last pickets of our army before
morning, it shall be my care that there are none to intercept them.
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