Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/150

Rh the battle of Long Island. "Already are the people fleeing in every direction, and Tories stand on the street corners flaunting their loyalty to the king unrebuked; they have even begun to threaten us, and I was told not an hour since, that this house is to be burned within eight and forty hours after Howe takes possession of the town, because, as that reptile, St. John Newcomb, said, I am a viper, who, with all my brood, must be smoked out."

"If there is yet time, why do we not join those who are fleeing from the trouble to come?" Mistress Dean asked quickly, and her husband gave vent to a groan as he replied:

"Because all the property I own is in the shop, and here, in addition to which, I am owing more bills than can be paid at once. It is with the hope of saving something out of the wreck that I remain; but there is nothing to prevent you and Dorothy from leaving this very day."

Mistress Dean looked thoughtful, as if undecided whether she should take advantage of her husband's permission, when Mistress Lamb asked sharply:

"Do you intend to remain, Anthony?"

"I must, my dear, and for the same reason friend Dean has given; but I will say as does he, that both you and the child may go."

"Sarah and I will stay with you, Anthony