Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/26

Rh spectators, and one of these was Master Dean, who lifted Dorothy in his arms regardless of the possibility that her finery might be disarranged, as he asked:

"Are you seeing all the sights, my dear?"

"Yes, sir, and even more than the marching men, for one who is accused of being a British spy ran through the square this afternoon, pursued by many people."

"I heard that an officer from Howe's army had been seen in the city, and that, because of the watch which has been set, it is well-nigh impossible for him to escape."

"But this could not have been a British officer, sir, for he was dressed much like a laborer."

"Ay, that was the disguise it is said he assumed; but he so far forgot himself as to linger near Master Fraunce's tavern, and was recognized by Colonel Willett, who had seen him in Boston."

"If he should be caught, will they hang him?" Dorothy asked, her voice tremulous with the thought of such a cruel, shameful death.

"Ay, my child. In time of war those who enter an enemy's lines in disguise, can expect no other fate."

"But it is wicked to kill a man when he has done no harm," and now the tears stood in Dorothy's eyes.

"Such a man may do more injury to us than