General Washington stayed his steps and ordered, “Let the lad come to me.”
“I’ve good news for you,” said the youth.
“What news?”
Officers stood around—even the congregation paused, having heard the cry.
“It’s for you alone, General Washington.”
The lad’s eyes were ablaze now. All the light of Philadelphia’s late illuminations burned in them. General Washington bade the youth follow him.
“But my pony is tied yonder,” said he, “and he’s hungry and tired too. I can’t leave him.”
“Come hither, then,” and the Commander-in-chief withdrew with the lad within the sacred edifice.
“General Washington,” said Blue-Eyed Boy, “on Thursday Congress declared us free and independent.”