George smiled at the peculiar wording of this statement.
"It is known to you, of course, how important it is for us to be kept in touch with the movements and plans of the enemy," went on the Colonel. "We obtain information from sources and in a way that might astonish you; it certainly would cause some consternation to the British. Now in my mind there has been for some time an idea that I think can be successfully accomplished. I have broached it to no one high in authority in the army. There might be objections raised. It may be rash, but it is not impossible, and, if successful, would go in a great measure toward settling up affairs.
"Follow me closely. There is in New York a society formed of a few men of brains and caution, who are serving their country in a way that for the time being must make them suffer. They are placed in people's estimation as being royalists and Tories, but no truer American hearts beat than theirs. Risks are great, but the needs are quite as much so. They are known to one another, but cannot hold any meetings, as that would excite suspicion. Each one's movement is reported to the others in their own peculiar way. Nothing said, nothing heard, you know. But opinions are discussed amongst themselves, nevertheless. I cannot give their names; you will find them out for yourself, perhaps, if you care to meet my views.
"Now you know that the British hold in captivity our General Lee, and they decline to consider him a subject for exchange. He was taken from a farm-house by a party of Tories in New Jersey. Surprised and captured, he is now within the power of the enemy. Don't let what I am going to propose seem wild, or imaginary; but I believe that it is feasible to secure the person of either Lord Howe or his brother the General, and bring them from the heart of the city to become the guests of the people at large. To do this would require some plotting, much caution, fearlessness, and devotion. The details I cannot tell you, but you will be informed of them if you choose to assist in the venture."
George did not interrupt.
"Do you see these papers?" went on Colonel Hewes. "They are despatches from the Tories of Albany to the British in New York. Here also are the credentials of the young man who carried them. He is about your height, but nineteen years of age, and has never been in New York before. He is endorsed, however, to the British leaders. To make one's way into New York secretly is difficult. A stranger who cannot account for his appearance is suspected, but it is my belief that the person, armed with these papers can secure a position close to the seat of power. Intercepted despatches are better than destroyed. We know what these contain, but their contents will appear to be of great moment to the British, and upon them may determine the disposition of much of the huge force quartered in New York. This young man's name is Blount. I have found out enough of his family and of his personal history to make it possible for any one who takes his place to appear to have the knowledge necessary to allay suspicion. There is but one man there who has ever seen him. This is an uncle of his who is now absent in Connecticut, and who therefore need not be feared. Would you care to volunteer for an enterprise so hazardous?"
"But I am known," said George, "to people in New York."
"Think to whom," said Mr. Hewes. "Count over those whom you might fear."
"Mr. Wyeth," suggested George at once.
"He's safe in Canada," said Mr. Hewes.