ANDERSON.
(emphatically). I am. (The two soldiers take him by the elbows.) Tell these men to take their hands off me.
SWINDON.
(to the men). Let him go.
THE SERGEANT.
Fall back.
The two men return to their places. The townsfolk raise a cheer; and begin to exchange exultant looks, with a presentiment of triumph as they see their Pastor speaking with their enemies in the gate.
ANDERSON.
(exhaling a deep breath of relief, and dabbing his perspiring brow with his handkerchief). Thank God, I was in time!
BURGOYNE.
(calm as ever, and still watch in hand). Ample time, sir. Plenty of time. I should never dream of hanging any gentleman by an American clock. (He puts up his watch.)
ANDERSON.
Yes: we are some minutes ahead of you already, General. Now tell them to take the rope from the neck of that American citizen.
BURGOYNE.
(to the executioner in the cart—very politely). Kindly undo Mr. Dudgeon.
The executioner takes the rope from Richard’s neck, unties his hands, and helps him on with his coat.
JUDITH.
(stealing timidly to Anderson). Tony.