_Sir Henry._ And, pray, what answer did he send to this?
_Maj. André._ One that almost outdid my expectation. He wrote me back that if I would adventure To trust myself within the Americ lines, He would, by means of secret friends and passports, Gain me admittance to his residence; Or meeting close in personal interview In some lone place hereafter to be fixed on, Confer with me upon the fittest means Of rendering up his charge. He further added That he was weary of this damned rebellion, For ten thousand guineas would be yours, That doing thus he meant his country's good, And would pursue it to his utmost power.
_Sir Henry._ Upon a lucky hour you thought of Arnold. But, friend, I charge you, if this scheme succeed, Take not the merit of it to yourself; But let the world imagine it was Clinton Who schemed, who plotted, and seduced the villain; That by this deed more honour I may gain Than if I had defeated Washington By dint of blows on yonder Jersey plain. Your recompense shall not be wanting, André; My trusty friend, go make haste toward the highlands. A frigate shall be ready to convey you. Accept the proffered conference, and bring Plans of the fort and all its avenues, The number of the soldiers that defend it, And whate'er else may be of service to us; That tho' if by chance his treason be discovered, And his designments lose their consummation, We may have somewhat to facilitate-- Some bold attack that may hereafter be Upon this proud and self-sufficient fortress.
_Maj. André._ But, sir, consider. If I undertake So bold a stroke as this, I risk my life, Perhaps may meet an ignominious death. When once I pass the British lines, that instant Do I become a spy. That character Ever belongs to common, vulgar men, To suttlers and to pedlars, desperate wretches, The rubbish and the scourings of the world; Can I descend to so desperate an office?
_Sir Henry._ But, then, your country!-- Consider what it is you owe your country. Distressed she combats with revolted nations, And can't by force reduce them to subjection; Assist her while you can, and take my word, You need not fear an apprehension. I charge you, be not found within their lines; Remember still to keep on neutral ground, Unless a flag of truce be sent from Arnold That will secure your person and the plot. But if by chance you should be questioned By any scouting parties of militia, A purse of shillings scattered to the wretches Will soon procure a passage unmolested. I long to hear the upshot of this meeting, The _Vulture_ man-of-war is at your service, And shall to-morrow take you up the river As far as she with safety may adventure.
