“Now, General Arnold, you will pardon me, but if I were to put two thousand pounds sterling to your credit, as a loan, and leave it here for your convenience, would that be of any service to you?”
“My dear Mr. Barclugh,” replied Arnold most graciously, “you have befriended me generously—I am in need of friends.
“I shall not forget your kindness, but may I ask you to let me have five hundred pounds to-day?”
“Certainly, certainly,” returned Barclugh, and he counted him out the amount in Bank of England notes.
“But there is only one matter I wish to impress upon you, General Arnold, before you go,” continued Barclugh, as he arose and took Arnold by the hand. “I hope that you will press the matter about West Point with General Washington, and let me know at the very first moment what news you get. I know that General Washington desires to befriend you.”
“Of course, Mr. Barclugh, I will keep you posted. I expect news any day; still there is a feeling within me that Washington is under the influence of my enemies. He does not show the cordiality to me now, that he used to.
“But never mind, I shall be able to give them all a lesson in the manner of treating a gentleman, when the war is over.”
“Good day, Mr. Barclugh, I am more than grateful.”
“Come down at any time, General. We shall arrange all details when you hear from headquarters.
“Good day,” concluded Roderick Barclugh.