"To this Crosby replied, that unexpected delays might occur, and he thought it would be better for him to proceed.—'But,' said he, as he shook hands with the unsuspicious farmer, and bade him farewell, 'I shall doubtless have the pleasure of seeing the company;' and added, 'It is my intention to join them at——.'
"'Very well, very well!' interrupted the farmer,—his eye brightening at his success, in having, as he thought, made Crosby a convert to the royal cause.
"'I hope it will be well'—whispered Crosby to himself, as he walked down the lane, which led to the road—'I will try to join them; but may be in a manner not so agreeable to them.'
"On reaching the road, to avoid the mischief which might come upon him, if he went directly north—he took the road leading to New-York. But from this, soldier like, he soon filed off; and crossing a thicket, shaped his course northerly towards the American camp.
"He was soon beyond harm, and now travelled at his ease. He had heard of a Mr. Young, who lived at a distance, in a direction somewhat different from that which he was taking; and as he was said to be a true whig—he concluded to repair to him, and to concert measures to take the company of tories, at the time of their meeting.
"With this resolution he again altered his course, so as to strike the road leading to Mr. Young's. Unexpected difficulties, however, impeded his course—hills, woods, streams, and before he reached the house, it was near midnight.
"It so happened, fortunately, that Mr. Young was still up, although his family had all retired. A light was still burning, and Crosby made for the door, which led into the room where Mr. Young sat.
"He gave a gentle rap at the door, which was soon cautiously opened— cautiously, because it was now late—and, in those times, no one knew when he was safe. The light fell on Crosby's face, and the searching eye of Mr. Young followed.
"'Sir,' said Crosby, in haste to make his excuse, 'I understand you are a true friend to your country, and I have important—'
"'Come in, come in,' said Mr. Young—the expression of Crosby's face carrying more conviction of honesty, than words could do—'come in— you travel late—'