Later, when there was no one about the upper floor, Dick, Ben and Harry went out, looking like three vagabonds, and looked about them. Dick went toward the Commons, and Ben and Harry took their way toward the church to get some food. There were redcoats on the Commons, as Dick had feared, and he could see more of them in the distance. Then he walked carelessly on, seeing no one who knew him, and made his way as far as a quiet inn down a side street where he was well known, the people being good patriots. On the way he saw many redcoats, Hessians, and other enemies, and he knew that getting out of New York was going to be a difficult task, and one that would require all their energy as well as a deal of craft and caution.
"What, you are still in the city, Captain?" asked the landlord, when he recognized Dick.
"Yes, there are nearly a score of us who were caught here, but I hope to get away to-night."
"There are lines drawn right across the city and island, and the redcoats will let no one through whom they do not know."
"There is the river," added Dick. "We are in the old warehouse down there, and if we can get a boat or two we will try to get out of the city that way."
"There are ships in the river, Captain, that are keeping a sharp lookout. I don't want to discourage you, but I am afraid that it will be as hard to get out that way as any."
"I am glad to know all the difficulties there are in our way, for then I shall know how to meet them. It is better to know just what to expect."
"Of course, and I will give you all the help I can."
"Thank you. If I need it, I will call on you."