Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/113

100 Sarah's father "hung in the wind," as the saying is. Instead of following close at his host's heels when the latter made a move toward the door leading to the rooms above, he retreated a few paces, as he said thoughtfully:

"Let us consider the matter in all its bearings, friend Dean, before taking any decisive steps. The spy must perforce remain where he is until we are ready, and a delay of an hour can make but little difference."

"Is there anything we can do but deliver him over to the rightful authorities?" the silversmith asked irritably.

"It surely seems as if that must be done; but first let us consider how we will stand with the public by so doing. The citizens were here, declaring that the spy was on the premises. You much the same as refused to admit them. Two hours later you walk into the headquarters of the army, with a prisoner whom you captured while he was hiding in your house. Now my question is this: Will the people who were here believe that you knew nothing regarding his whereabouts at the time you so stated to them, or will they claim that you wanted all the praise, and all the reward, for bringing in the Britisher? These be perilous times, friend Dean; the enemy will probably be in possession of the city very soon, for Howe has force enough to crush our