Once Jacob had passed beyond the excited throng he waited with the utmost impatience for Enoch to join him, and when, after what seemed an exceedingly long time, his comrade came up looking surprised and alarmed, Master Ludwick motioned for him to follow toward the bank of the river.
Not until the boys stood where there was no possibility the conversation could be overheard did Jacob speak, and then it was to say:
"Now we understand why the man who talked with us was so anxious to learn what might be done by the Britishers. He knew General Lafayette was about to move, and expected troops would be sent out from here at once."
"If that is done we shall be of but little service, for the soldiers will march as fast as we can."
"That remains to be seen. The time has come when we can do work that will be of importance, and we must not lose the opportunity."
"Then we had best get around by the barracks; we can be of no service while we stand here talking idly."
"It is not idle talk, as you shall see. The thought has come to me that if the enemy makes any move to-night it is our duty to take the news to General Washington, or General Lafayette, before the Britishers can get very far on the road."
"I don't understand how it is to be done."
"Are you willing to run a big risk?"
"I am ready to do anything in aid of the cause."