"Well, my orders are for a man named Hart, who is to be taken to Fort McHenry."
"Webster leaped from the wagon while it was in motion." P. 339.
Something in the tone of the man's voice, and in the twinkle of his eye, told Webster that everything was understood, so he answered at once:
"Very well, I am the man!"
"Come with me, then."
They conducted him to the street, where he saw a covered wagon in waiting. They all got in and then in a loud voice the officer gave the order:
"Drive direct to Fort McHenry pier!"
After they had started, the officer explained to Webster that it had been arranged, in order to prevent suspicion, that he should be allowed to jump from the wagon as it was driven along, and after a pretended pursuit, he would make his escape to his rebel friends with whom he should remain quietly for a few days, and then return to Washington and report to me.