Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/127

114 believe that you had given up the Britisher on this second visit only because you were afraid; but that it was your original intention to have set him at liberty."

"Open the door! We demand admission in the name of the United Colonies!" a peremptory voice cried from the outside, and Master Lamb said sharply to Scipio:

"Obey the summons at once; but spend a few moments in pretending that it is difficult to turn the key."

"What would you do now?" the silversmith asked angrily. "The mischief may be repaired if we do not provoke them. It is evident that the citizens who are waiting have received encouragement from one high in authority, otherwise they would not dare present themselves here a second time, and we must explain all."

"Why?"

Master Dean looked at his friend in amazement.

"Is it possible, Anthony Lamb, that you have not had trouble enough this evening, but would delay the explanation which must be made?"

"To my mind there is no necessity for you or me to do anything. These good people have saved us the trouble. Let them come in. Provide them with candles with which to make the search, and, in fact, throw your house open freely. The spy will be found, and then it can be said