IV.--Justice by Evasion
The Wharton family, by order of Washington, now removed to the Highlands, out of the region of warlike operations, and Captain Wharton was brought to trial. The court condemned him to execution as a spy before nine o'clock on the morning following the trial, the president, however, expressing his intention of riding to Washington's headquarters and urging a remission of the punishment. But the sentence of the court was returned--approved. All seemed lost.
"Why not apply to Mr. Harper?" said Frances, recollecting for the first time the parting words of their guest.
"Harper!" echoed Dunwoodie, who had joined the family consultation. "What of him? Do you know him?"
"He stayed with us two days. He seemed to take an interest in Henry, and promised him his friendship."
"What!" exclaimed the youth, in astonishment, "did he know your brother?"
"Certainly; it was at his request that Henry threw aside his disguise."
"But," said Dunwoodie, "he knew him not as an officer of the royal army?"
"Indeed he did, and cautioned him against this very danger, bidding him apply to him when in danger and promising to requite the son for the hospitality of the father."
"Then," cried the youth, "will I save him. Harper will never forget his word."