“You will contrive to let us hear of your safe arrival in Boston, Bob,” observed the father, as he sat stirring his tea, in a thoughtful way—“I hope to God the matter will go no farther, and that our apprehensions, after all, have given this dark appearance to what has already happened.”
“Ah, my dear father; you little know the state of the country, through which I have so lately travelled!” answered the major, shaking his head. “An alarm of fire, in an American town, would scarce create more movement, and not so much excitement. The colonies are alive, particularly those of New England, and a civil war is inevitable; though I trust the power of England will render it short.”
“Then, Robert, do not trust yourself among the people of New England”— cried the anxious mother. “Go rather to New York, where we have so many friends, and so much influence. It will be far easier to reach New York than to reach Boston.”
“That may be true, mother, but it will scarcely be as creditable. My regiment is in Boston, and its enemies are before Boston; an old soldier like captain Willoughby will tell you that the major is a very necessary officer to a corps. No—no—my best course is to fall into the current of adventurers who are pushing towards Boston, and appear like one of their number, until I can get an opportunity of stealing away from them, and join my own people.”
“Have a care, Bob, that you do not commit a military crime. Perhaps these provincial officers may take it into their heads to treat you as a spy, should you fall into their hands!”