The young man’s face burned with pleasure; praise from Washington was praise indeed, and as he noted the smiles of the officers gathered about, he felt that they, too, thought the same.
After a few moments, the commander-in-chief turned to a captain who stood at Mark Harwood’s side.
“Captain Lacey,” said he, “take this man away.”
“Will you not use my information, then?” cried young Harwood, his face going pale. “It is accurate; it will be of great service to you. I was trusted by Lord Cornwallis and I can tell you his positions; I can tell you how——”
“Enough,” Washington waved his hand. “Have you no shame—have you no manhood? You were trusted by General Cornwallis, and now that you fancy him on the verge of defeat, you come to me and offer to betray him. Captain Lacey, take him away.”
“Wait!” Mark sprang toward the table at which Washington sat. “I can prove to you—to all here—that my information is worth your while.”
“I never deal with traitors,” returned General Washington, sternly.
Mark’s face grew even more white as he saw the expression in the American general’s eyes; in desperation he turned to Tom.
“Tom Deering, tell them who I am. You know me; you know whether I have Cornwallis’ secrets or no.”
Washington looked with sudden surprise at Tom.