He shook Dick's hand, and then with a good-bye and a salute, the youth took his departure.
An orderly accompanied him to the dock and summoned a boatman, and then Dick got in and was ferried across the East River. Alighting on the Long Island shore, he set out in the direction of Brooklyn Heights, reaching there shortly after dark.
Chapter VII
Dick's First Adventure
Dick was challenged, and on answering that he was a friend, was told to advance and give the countersign.
He approached the sentinel, and when near him, said:
“I am a patriot, but do not know the countersign. I wish to see General Putnam.”
“Who are you and why do you wish to see the general?” the sentinel asked.
“My name is Dare, and I am a messenger from General Washington. I have a letter of introduction to General Putnam.”
“All right. I'll summon the officer of the guard and he'll conduct you to the general.”