Washington's gray eyes were still on my face.
"Lawrence is a Massachusetts name."
"Not exclusively," I returned, "as our branch are Virginians."
The stern lines about the mouth relaxed into a smile.
"Indeed; from the Eastern shore then. I recall now having once met a Judge John Lawrence, whose wife was a Lee."
"My father, sir."
His hand rested firm on my shoulder, as his glance turned to Hamilton.
"I require no further commendation, Colonel. You will find the papers in the second drawer. Please explain all the details carefully to Major Lawrence."
He bowed toward me, and sank back once more into his chair, one hand shading the eyes that still regarded us. Hamilton opened the drawer designated, extracted an official document, and addressed me rapidly in lowered voice.
"This is a simple duty, Major, but may prove a dangerous one. You have been selected because of previous successful efforts of a similar nature, but the Commander-in-chief does not order your going; we seek a volunteer."