Everett T. Tomlinson

“ In spite of the fall of the near-by forts, there still might be hope left, he thought, if only John Burgoyne might be prevented from receiving word of the approach of his allies. Weak as Robert still was, he nevertheless was determined to make the attempt. If Russell should enter the sugar-house he would attack him, and it might be that, taken unawares, the man might be held there, or at least prevented from going farther. ”

“ Russell stared at Robert as he spoke, as if he could not believe what he had heard; then suddenly wrenching one hand free he thrust it into a pocket, drew forth something which the others could not see, placed it in his mouth, and then with apparent calmness faced his captors.
"He's swallowed it!" exclaimed Robert aghast. "He's swallowed it!"
"We 'll take him to the general," said Joseph quickly. "He 'll know what to do."
"Is he near here?" inquired Robert.
"Yes, yes, only a little way up the road. The redcoats landed and set fire to Esopus this morning ”

“ The boats have gone up the river; but just as soon as I can get past this part of the country I know where I can get a horse, and I 'll make such time that there won't be any more trouble for Sir John. When he learns that help is right at hand, he 'll be all right."
"Shall I go with you?"
"No. Leave me here, and I 'll look after myself. Good-night."
Robert was eager to see if the man with Russell, evidently the husband of the good woman who had cared for him, did indeed depart ”

“ It was not long before they arrived, and in spite of the excitement due to the burning town, their explanation of the cause of their desire to see the general at once, speedily admitted them into his presence. ”

“ He started up the river and landed near Peekskill, as I was teling you. It did n't take him long to outwit old Put,—as the rebels call him, I understand,—and then he kept on to the forts. The rebels put up a pretty good fight, but they could n't hold out, though they did their best. Sir Henry sent up a messenger before the attack, ordering the Clintons to surrender"—
"It was strange that Clinton should be the name of the commander on each side, was n't it?"
"Yes, and this George Clinton and his brother are shrewd fellows, too. ”