"You come from the Fort?" said the man in abject terror.
"No, I do not. I am an American," said Sam, no longer hesitating to reveal his nationality, now that he saw how terrified the man was at thought of falling into British hands.
The words re-assured the man, and when Tom came ashore with the boat he embarked without further hesitation.
"Beat about, Tom," said Sam, "I may have to land again. I have promised this man to return him safely to the place in which I found him, if we don't come to some agreement. Sail around here while we talk."
Turning to the man, he said:—
"Let us talk in a low voice. Who are you, and what?"
"I'm a deserter from the marine corps."
"British?"
"Yes. I'm an Irishman. I've blacked my hair and skin, that's all."
"When did you desert?"