Page:Tomlinson--The rider of the black horse.djvu/401

Rh which had followed, and then repeated his request for the desired permission.

General Clinton smiled, for he was as happy as his men over the surrender of Burgoyne and the return of Sir Henry and his troops to the city. "I think I can give you the permission you desire," he said kindly. "Truly, you do not look as if you were fit to ride to Philadelphia."

"Thank you, General," said Robert quietly. "Have you a horse for me?"

"Yes." General Clinton glanced keenly but not unkindly at the young man as he spoke.

"Then I will start now."

For a moment Joseph stared at his friend as if he were angry, and then without a word both young men passed out.

"I don't understand," said Joseph sharply, when they were outside.

"Yes, you do, Joe. You'd do the same thing if you were in my place. My time is up, but I must report. Then I 'll come back and stay till you are tired of seeing me about the house."

Impulsively Joseph turned and grasped his friend's hand, but he did not speak.

It was six weeks later when Robert Dorlon returned to the region. There was a color in