Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/146

130 To his delight he found that the general was within and alone, and in response to the word which he gave the guard he was speedily admitted, and at once made known his errand.

General Clinton listened quietly to his story of his seizure and the loss of the letter which had been intrusted to him, but the scowl which rested upon his face quickly departed when Robert held forth the letter which he himself had secured, and he said as he eagerly took it: "There will be nothing for you to do to-night. Report to me early in the morning, and doubtless then I shall be able to give you instructions as to what you are next to do."

Robert bowed and retired, relieved that his failure to bring the letter of the commander had been received with such apparent unconcern, though he was well assured that the substitute letter had been no slight aid to him; and then he decided at once to seek out Mr. Nott or his sons and repeat to them what had recently occurred at their home.

Near him he perceived a young soldier, apparently about his own age, and advancing toward him Robert said eagerly, "Can you tell me where I can find Mr. Nott?"

"Which Mr. Nott?" replied the young man sharply. "There are several here."