"Major Dunwoodie," he said, after bowing to the ladies, "the commander
in chief has directed me to give you these orders."
He executed his mission, and, pleading duty, took his leave immediately.
"Here, indeed!" cried the major, "is an unexpected turn in the whole
affair; but I understand it: Harper has got my letter, and already we
feel his influence."
"Have you news affecting Henry?" cried Frances, springing to his side.
"Listen, and you shall judge."
"SIR,--Upon the receipt of this, you will concentrate your squadron, so
as to be in front of a covering party which the enemy has sent up in
front of his foragers, by ten o'clock to-morrow, on the heights of
Croton, where you will find a body of foot to support you. The escape of
the English spy has been reported to me, but his arrest is unimportant,
compared with the duty I now assign you. You will, therefore, recall
your men, if any are in pursuit, and endeavor to defeat the enemy
forthwith."
Your obedient servant,
GEO. WASHINGTON.
"Thank God!" cried Dunwoodie, "my hands are washed of Henry's recapture;
I can now move to my duty with honor."
"And with prudence, too, dear Peyton," said Frances, with a face as pale
as death. "Remember, Dunwoodie, you leave behind you new claims on
your life.
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