Page:Dorothy's spy; a story of the first "fovrth of Jvly" celebration, New York, 1776.djvu/96

Rh peace and the rights of private and law-abiding citizens, is to let you prove for yourselves that there is no person concealed in this building. I will not, however, have such a mob trooping through my dwelling. You may choose two to accompany Master Lamb and myself, and a thorough search shall be made."

Now it was that Dorothy ran forward, seizing an opportunity when her mother was deeply engaged with Mistress Lamb, and caught her father by the skirts of his coat.

She was determined to tell him everything then, even though obliged to speak in the presence of Sarah's father, believing that the officer would be speedily discovered once the search was begun.

The worthy silversmith was not in the proper frame of mind to listen to his daughter just then, and, speaking more sharply than Dorothy had ever known him to speak before, he commanded her to return immediately to her mother's side.

There was nothing for the child to do but obey, because at that moment two men advanced, and Master Dean gave his entire attention to them.

"Since you insist by show of force, to intrude upon my privacy, I ask that you do your work with all possible speed, and then leave honest people in peace. Where will you representatives of a mob be pleased to go first?"

While speaking he had ushered the men into