"'Why, that Washington is on the retreat, and that the British army is pursuing him, and likely to overtake him.'
"'Ah! that's good news,' exclaimed the old lady, 'you may stay here to-night. Sally! Sally! here get this man some supper—he brings good news—I hope the rebels every one will be shot. Sally!—make up the best bed. Here's a chair—sit down, sir; and make yourself at home.
"Crosby accordingly took a seat. Supper was soon ready, and he eat heartily.
"When he had done, he drew his chair to the fire, about which time, the man of the house came in. He was told the good news by his wife, and Crosby was made welcome.
"The evening was spent in talking about the war, and the prospects of the country. The host proved himself a firm tory, and wondered that Crosby and every one else should not think and feel precisely as he did.
"'Have you many of your way of thinking in these parts?' inquired Crosby.
"'That we have,' replied the host—'more than we shall have a few days hence.'
"'I hope so,' whispered Crosby to himself. 'But, sir, how so?' inquired he, with some surprise.
"'Why,' replied the host, 'you must know that we've a company nearly ready to march. I guess they'll go the sooner, now that the British are after Washington. They'll wish to get there in time to see some of the fun.'
"'Could you introduce me to some of the company?' asked Crosby.