But he with resolution resolved not long to stay;
He set himself at liberty, and soon he ran away.
He with a scouting-party went down to Tarrytown,
Where he met a British officer, a man of high renown;
Who says unto these gentlemen, “You’re of the British cheer,
I trust that you can tell me if there’s any danger near?”
Then up stept this young hero, John Pawling was his name,
“Sir, tell us where you’re going, and also whence you came?”
“I bear the British flag, sir; I’ve a pass to go this way,
I’m on an expedition, and have no time to stay.”