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 If Mistress Ranfield were a paid spy in British service, Mehitable meant to know it!

Everywhere, now, nearing the Town by the River, though the devastation was covered by the kindly snow, they saw the blackened barns and half-ruined houses left by enemy raids. Mehitable, eyeing them, spoke wrathfully.

"Ah, Father—an we could only go to England and spoil their homes thus!"

"Nay, Hitty!" The Squire shook his head sadly. "Wish not for more mischief to be caused in the world!"

"Think you the British will try to avenge General Washington's attack on Staten Island?" asked the girl. "Newark must suffer an they do!"

"It will not be soon, I feel sure," said her father, "for it is too cold to suit the enemy! The British, as well as the fat Hessians, like their comfort well. And now, Hitty"—his tone became business-like as they rode into the village of Newark—"I will leave ye at Mistress Hedden's. Tell the lady, however, Hitty, that I will not put her to the trouble o' bedding me. I must see some men this evening and will stay at the Eagle Tavern."

"Oh, Father!" Mehitable was quick to protest; but afterward how glad she was that her father had not yielded.

As they drew rein before the Hedden residence on Broad Street—the main thoroughfare running