"It is not because of the Major's coming I withdraw," she replied pleasantly, "but the hour is late, and I am very tired. Good-night, all."
Washington's eyes were upon the door until it closed; then he turned slightly, facing me. Before he spoke again, Hamilton broke in:
"This is the officer, sir, recommended by General Maxwell—Major Lawrence of the Maryland Line."
I bowed silently, and the commander rose to his feet, extending his hand.
"No doubt we have met before," he said slowly. "You have been with us for some time?"
"My first action was at Harlem, sir."
"You could not have been at Valley Forge during the past winter, however?"
"I was with the Marquis de la Fayette at Albany."
"Ah, yes," his face clouding at the recollection. "A young officer, Hamilton, but capable, no doubt. You have used him before, you said?"
"Yes, at Long Island, and he entered New York once at my request."