"Fight? Yes, sir; if it be the British I fight against."
"Why are you anxious to fight the British?"
"My grandfather, sir, was with Washington, and was killed fighting for his country; my father was wounded, and my elder brother killed. I have been told of those days, and I have a debt to pay."
"But you do not remember that time."
"No, sir. I am only nineteen years old, and the British evacuated New York twelve years before I was born."
"Then it is only as you have been educated? You blush! You need not make me your confidant unless you like——"
"I will tell you, sir, for I know you can feel for me."
The two young men had separated from the crowd, and had walked along the water's edge until they came to where the Barge Office now stands.
They were alone, or nearly so, as the crowds were watching the war vessels.
"I had a dear friend who was taken from his home and impressed."