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 Master Todd, who, an I remember, had to return home unexpectedly because o' an accident to his wife. But I did not commit him to jail, sir, for he escaped. Afterward, he was recaptured—'twas the battle at Newark when he was arrested by one Master Alling, sir. He was listed as Tory afterward, at my request, for I believe him to be Tory! As for his fabulous tale o' being a ward o' Lord Holden's, sir—ha, that rich, indeed! He be naught but a spy, sir, and" But here Uzal, who had leaped to his feet and ranted this out in a loud voice, was interrupted by the governor.

"I believe I ha' asked ye but the one question, which ye did answer, Master Ball," he said ironically. "What ye believe, sir, does not concern any o' this council. Have the prisoner brought before us, Master Martin, so that we may form our own beliefs!" He turned to the doorkeeper; but before Master Martin could move, Uzal's voice rang out triumphantly.

"The prisoner be lying ill unto death wi' the plague," he said.

Governor Livingston frowned. "He hath the smallpox?" he questioned.

Uzal nodded. "Aye, sir."

"Where is he confined."

"I' the Presbyterian church, sir, which the army ha' been using as a hospital for the plague wi' Parson Johnnes's permission," answered Uzal.