He believed his mission had been accomplished; that he had rendered no slight service to the cause, and that there was no longer any danger to be apprehended.
He whistled as he walked, giving but little heed to what might be before or behind him, until, within less than five minutes from the time he had parted with the American horsemen, he was confronted by a squad of the Queen's Rangers, commanded by a lieutenant.
"Take him up in front of you," the officer said to the trooper nearest him. "We can't be delayed by forcing him to march on foot."
"What are you to do with me?" Seth cried in surprise, for this command was the first word which had been spoken by either party.
"That remains to be seen," the officer replied curtly.
"But there is no reason for arresting me," Seth continued. "I am the son of Mrs. Graydon, who keeps the boarding-house in Drinker's Alley."
"Ah! Indeed?"
"Certainly I am, and any of the officers who live there can vouch for me."
"Those who vouch for you would be indiscreet," the lieutenant said sharply. "You are under arrest, and it is possible may persuade the commander that Mrs. Graydon's son does not hold communication with the rebels; but any protestations on your part would be useless, so far as we are concerned, for we saw you escorted by a squad of rebel horsemen. Mount in front of the trooper and make no parley. General Howe has a short shrift for spies, and we shall not spend our time here convincing you that your treason has been discovered."
Seth was almost helpless through fear.