Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/164

Rh rag-tag and bobtail of an army under the Virginia farmer came into the city."

"Let us understand one another, Master Newcomb, as men should who make ready to cry quits. What is the amount due from Master Dean and myself, according to your reckoning?"

"Everything you own in the city of New York, and I would have your lives as well, were it not that you will suffer more by living as paupers, for such you shall be before to-morrow's sun rises! My lord Howe believes in reprisals, therefore we may work our pleasure on such scum as you."

"Then you have charged against our families that which you claimed was due only from us, since they must be the greatest sufferers if you reduce us to beggary."

"And it is well they should, for then will you and the rascally silversmith be struck in the tenderest parts. Open, unless it is your wish that we batter down the door!"

"Do not parley with the ruffian, since it can effect nothing," Master Dean cried. "They have come intent on working the greatest possible amount of mischief, and we can neither say nor do anything to change their purpose."

"Will you open?" Master Newcomb cried angrily.

"Since it is your intention to destroy this