Bur. Capt. Maitland!
Ser't. From Fort Ann, Sir.
(Maitland enters.)
Bur. Captain Maitland! Good heavens, I thought you were at Skeensborough by this,—what has happened? or am I to congratulate myself that the necessity of your embassy is obviated. You met them, perhaps?—
Maitland. There's but little cause of congratulation, Sir, as these dispatches will prove to you. I returned only because my embassy was accomplished.
Bur. Do you mean to say, Captain Maitland, that you have seen the waters of Lake Champlain, since you left here this morning?
Mait. I do, Sir.
Bur. On my word, these roads must have improved since we travelled them some two days agone. I am sorry for your horses, Sir. You saw General Reidesel?
Mait. I left him only at nine o'clock this morning.
(Burgoyne examines the dispatches.)