Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/174

Rh that had been done by them, adding, that if they could be allowed to keep their shops open it would be possible to earn a livelihood.

"That you shall do, my friends, and I promise you the patronage of all whom I know in the army. General Howe already understands what a service these young maids rendered, and will gladly do what he may to your advantage, so that it give you no discredit with your own political party."

"Could we accept favors from the man who has come to crush us?" Master Dean asked bitterly; but Master Lamb made no reply, although he looked wondrous pleased, for if the British commander-in-chief was disposed, both he and his brother merchant might count on prosperity, instead of being paupers, as would have been the case had Dorothy's spy arrived half an hour later.

"Nay, you are receiving no favors from Lord Howe, my dear sir; it is these dear little maids of mine who are favored, and however much may be done for them, I am not relieved from debt. Orders shall be given as soon as this terrible conflagration be checked, if it does not destroy the entire city, that you two are to be protected by our troops, therefore you need have no fear in replacing your valuables in the shops where they may be displayed. Greatly as it would pleasure