It is a good thing when a young hero dies; for so is he safe. His immortality is meted to him. O spare us a trial like this man's who is on the brink of great misfortune.
Arnold. [Starting up.] They have betrayed me! Who goes there?
[Enter Joshua Smith. Exit Treason.]
Joshua Smith. A friend!
Arnold. His name?
Joshua Smith. Joshua Smith. And yours?
Arnold. Arnold, my man. Good God! you startled me. I must have slept. What news? Will André come?
Joshua Smith. He's just behind me.
All is as we planned.
The British sloop-of-war hangs in the tide.
The Vulture brought him, and she waits for him
Not two miles to the south. I boarded her. With every point
Raised in your letters André is agreed;
And back of him, Sir Henry Clinton stands;
And back of him,—ye'll hear it now?—King George!
Packt, stamped upon, agreed, and understood,
The bargain's struck. Your hand, my Lord! Sir Benedict!
Lord Ruler Benedict, The Lord Protector of the Colonies,
And Duke of,—what you will. Young André follows.
I chased ahead to find you. Put it high!
You'll put the figure high?—I'm out of breath—
Arnold. I'll put it high enough to help a friend.—
No fear of that, my lad. Go rest awhile:
Stand sentinel upon the shore below.
[Exit Smith. As he goes out he indicates Arnold to André by a gesture. Enter André. His slender, refined, almost girlish youth is in contrast with Arnold's battle-worn, gigantic figure.]