It is not to my
interest
that the matter should ever get noised
abroad.
abroad.
Warner - World's Best Literature - v17 - Mai to Mom
For this there was need; soldiers
and officers were continually coming hither in hopes to gather
fresh news of the great treason, or curious as to this strange
capture of Sir Henry Clinton's adjutant. General officers came
and went with grave faces; aides mounted and rode away in
haste; all was excitement and anxious interest, - every one asking
questions, and none much the wiser. With difficulty I succeeded
in sending in a note to Hamilton along with Jack's report. This
was nigh to nine in the morning, but it was after midday before
I got a chance to see my friend.
Meanwhile I walked up and down in a state of such agitation
and distress as never before nor since have I known. When I
had seen Major Tallmadge, he knew but little of those details of
Arnold's treason which later became the property of all men;
but he did tell me that the correspondence had been carried on
for Sir Henry by André in the name of Anderson, and this
brought to my mind the letter which the Quaker farmer declined
to surrender to me at the time I was serving as Arnold's aide.
I went back at last to Jack's hut in the valley near the river,
and waited. I leave Jack to say how I felt and acted that day
and evening, as I lay and thought of André and of poor Mar-
garet Shippen, Arnold's wife: -
“Never have I seen my dear Hugh in such trouble. Here
was a broken-hearted woman, the companion of his childhood;
and André, who, at a moment which must have called upon his
every instinct as a soldier, held back and saved my friend from
a fate but too likely to be his own. Hugh all that evening lay
in our hut, and now and then would break out declaring he must
do something; but what, he knew not, nor did I. He was even
## p. 10128 (#556) ##########################################
10128
S. WEIR MITCHELL
so mad as to think he might plan some way to assist André
to escape. I listened, but said nothing, being assured from long
knowledge that his judgment would correct the influence of the
emotion which did at first seem to disturb it.
"Now all this miserable business is over, I ask myself if our
chief would have tried to buy an English general; or if so, would
I or Hugh have gone on such an errand as André's. To be a
spy is but a simple duty, and no shame in it; but as to the
shape this other matter took, I do not feel able to decide. ”
Still later he adds:
“Nor is my mind more fully settled as to it to-day; some
think one way, some another. I had rather André had not gone
on this errand with the promise of a great reward. Yet I think
he did believe he was only doing his duty. ”
After an hour or more of fruitless thinking, not hearing from
Mr. Hamilton, I walked back to headquarters. Neither in the
joy and pride of glad news, nor when disaster on disaster fell on
us, have I ever seen anything like the intensity of expectation
and of anxiety which at this time reigned in our camps. The
capture of the adjutant-general was grave enough; his fate hung
in no doubtful balance: but the feeling aroused by the fall of a
great soldier, the dishonor of one greatly esteemed in the ranks,
the fear of what else might come, all served to foster uneasiness
and to feed suspicion. As the great chief had said, whom now
could he trust, or could we? The men talked in half-whispers
about the camp-fires; an hundred wild rumors were afloat; and
now and again eager eyes looked toward the low brick church
where twelve general officers were holding the court-martial
which was to decide the fate of my friend.
It was evening before the decision of the court-martial became
generally known. I wandered about all that day in the utmost
depression of mind. About two in the afternoon of this 29th of
September, I met Hamilton near the creek. He said he had
been busy all day, and was free for an hour: would I come
and dine at his quarters ? what was the matter with me?
I was
glad of the chance to speak freely. We had a long and a sad
talk, and he then learned why this miserable affair affected
me so deeply. He had no belief that the court could do other
than condemn Mr. André to die. I asked anxiously if the chief
were certain to approve the sentence. He replied gloomily, "As
surely as there is a God in heaven. ”
1
## p. 10129 (#557) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
T0129
I could only wait. A hundred schemes were in my mind,
each as useless as the others, In fact, I knew not what to do.
On the 30th his Excellency signed the death-warrant; and all
hope being at an end, I determined to make an effort to see the
man to whom I believe I owed my life. When I represented
the matter to Mr. Hamilton and to the Marquis de Lafayette, I
put my request on the ground that Mr. André had here no one
who could be called a friend, excepting only myself; and that to
refuse me an interview were needlessly cruel. I wrote my appli-
cation with care, the marquis, who was most kind throughout,
charging himself with the business of placing it favorably before
our chief.
The execution had been ordered for October ist; but upon
receipt of some communication from Sir Henry Clinton, it was
postponed until noon on October 2d.
On the 30th I rode out into the hills back of Tappan, and
tried to compose myself by my usual and effective remedy of a
hard ride. It was useless now. I came back to my friend's
quarters and tried to read, finding a stray volume of the Ram-
bler on his table. It was as vain a resort.
Never at any time in my memory have I spent two days of
such unhappiness. I could get no rest and no peace of mind.
To be thus terribly in the grip of events over which you have
no control, is to men of my temper a maddening affliction. My
heart seemed all the time to say, “Do something,” and my rea-
son to reply, “There is nothing to do. ” It was thus in the jail
when my cousin was on my mind; now it was as to André, and
as to the great debt I owed him, and how to pay it. People who
despair easily do not fall into the clutches of this intense cray-
ing for some practical means of relief where none can be. It is
the hopeful, the resolute, and such as are educated by success,
who suffer thus. But why inflict on others the story of these
two days, except to let those who come after me learn how one
of their blood looked upon a noble debt, which, alas! like many
debts, must go to be settled in another world, and in other ways
than ours.
Hamilton, who saw my agitation, begged me to prepare for
disappointment. I, however, could see no reason to deny a man
access to one doomed, when no other friend was near.
Nor was
I wrong. About seven in the evening of the ist, the marquis
came in haste to find me. He had asked for my interview with
XVII-634
## p. 10130 (#558) ##########################################
.
10130
S. WEIR MITCHELL
Mr. André as a favor to himself. His Excellency had granted
the request in the face of objections from two general officers,
whom the marquis did not name.
As I thanked him he gave
me this order:
“To Major Tallmadge :
“The bearer, Hugh Wynne, Esq. , Captain Second Company,
Third Regiment of Pennsylvania Foot, has herewith permission
to visit Major André.
“GEOWASHINGTON.
"October ist, 1780. "
I went at once — it was now close to eight in the evening -
to the small house of one Maby, where the prisoner was kept.
It was but an hundred yards from his Excellency's quarters. Six
sentries marched to and fro around it, and within the room two
officers remained day and night with drawn swords.
My pass
was taken at the door of the house, while I waited on the road
without. In a few minutes an officer came to me with Major
Tallmadge's compliments, and would I be pleased to enter?
I sometimes think it strange how, even in particulars, the
natural and other scenery of this dark drama remains distinct
in my memory, unaffected by the obliterating influence of the
years, which have effaced so much else I had been more glad
to keep
I can
see to-day the rising moon, the yellowish road, the
long gray stone farm-house of one story, with windows set in an
irregular frame of brickwork. The door opens, and I find myself
in a short hall, where two officers salute as I pass. My con-
ductor says, “This way, Captain Wynne ”; and I enter a long,
cheerless-looking apartment, the sitting-room of a Dutch farm-
house. Two lieutenants, seated within at the doorway, rose as I
entered, and saluting me, sat down again. I stood an instant
looking about me. A huge log fire roared on the hearth, so
lighting the room that I saw its glow catch the bayonet tips of
the sentinels outside, as they went and came. There were a half-
dozen wooden chairs, and on a pine table four candles burning,
a bottle of Hollands, a decanter and glasses. In a high-backed
chair sat a man with his face to the fire. It was André. He
was tranquilly sketching, with a quill pen, a likeness of himself. *
* My acquaintance, Captain Tomlinson, has it.
## p. 10131 (#559) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
JO131
He did not turn or leave off drawing until Captain Tomlinson,
one of the officers in charge, seeing me pause, said:-
"Your pardon, major. Here is a gentleman come to visit
you. ”
»
As he spoke the prisoner turned, and I was at once struck by
the extreme pallor of his face, even as seen in the red light of
the fire. His death-like whiteness at this time brought out the
regular beauty of his features, as his usual ruddiness of color
never did. I have since seen strong men near to certain death,
but I recall no one who, with a serene and untroubled visage,
was yet as white as was this gentleman.
The captain did not present me; and for a moment I stood
with a kind of choking in the throat, which came, I suppose, of
the great shock André's appearance gave me. He was thus the
first to speak.
“Pardon me,” he said as he rose: “the name escaped me. ”
“Mr. Hugh Wynne,” I said, getting myself pulled together -
it was much needed.
"O Wynne! ” he cried quite joyously: "I did not know you.
How delightful to see a friend; how good of you to come! Sit
down. Our accommodations are slight. Thanks to his Excel-
lency, here are Madeira and Hollands: may I offer you a
glass ? »
“No, no," I said, as we took chairs by the fire; on which he
cast a log, remarking how cold it was. Then he added:
"Well, Wynne, what can I do for you ? ” And then, smiling,
Pshaw! what a thing is habit! What can I do for you, or
indeed, my dear Wynne, for any one ? But Lord! I am as glad
as a child. ”
It was all so sweet and natural that I was again quite over-
come.
“My God! ” I cried, I am so sorry, Mr. André! I came down
from King's Ferry in haste when I heard of this, and have been
three days getting leave to see you. I have never forgotten your
great kindness at the Mischianza. If there be any service I can
render you, I am come to offer it. ”
He smiled and said, “How strange is fate, Mr. Wynne!
Here am I in the same sad trap in which you might have been.
I was thinking this very evening of your happier escape. ” Then
he went on to tell me that he had instantly recognized me at
the ball, and also — what in my confusion at the time I did not
## p. 10132 (#560) ##########################################
10132
S. WEIR MITCHELL
hear - that Miss Peniston had cried out as she was about to
faint, "No, no, Mr. André! » Afterward he had wondered at
what seemed an appeal to him rather than to my cousin.
At last he said it would be a relief to him if he might speak
to me out of ear-shot of the officers. I said as much to these
gentlemen; and after a moment's hesitation, they retired outside
of the still open doorway of the room, leaving us freer to say
what we pleased. He was quiet, and as always, courteous to a
fault; but I did not fail to observe that at times, as we talked
and he spoke a word of his mother, his eyes filled with tears.
In general he was far more composed than I.
He said:-"Mr. Wynne, I have writ a letter, which I am
allowed to send to General Washington. Will you see that he
has it in person ? It asks that I may die a soldier's death. All
else is done. My mother — but no matter. I have wound up
my earthly affairs. I am assured, through the kindness of his
Excellency, that my letters and effects will reach my friends and
those who are still closer to me. I had hoped to see Mr. Hamil-
ton to-night, that I might ask him to deliver to your chief the
letter I now give you. But he has not yet returned, and I must
trust it to you to make sure that it does not fail to be consid-
ered. That is all, I think. ”
I said I would do my best, and was there no more - no
errand of confidence – nothing else?
"No," he replied thoughtfully; "no, I think not.
,
(I
I shall
never forget your kindness. Then he smiled and added, "My
never' is a brief day for me, Wynne, unless God permits us to
remember in the world where I shall be to-morrow. ”
I hardly recall what answer I made. I was ready to cry
like a child, He went on to bid me say to the good Attorney.
General Chew that he had not forgotten his pleasant hospitalities;
and he sent also some amiable message to the women of his
house, and to my aunt, and to the Shippens, speaking with the
ease and unrestraint of a man who looks to meet you at dinner
next week, and merely says a brief good-by.
I promised to charge myself with his messages, and said at
last that many officers desired me to express to him their sorrow
at his unhappy situation; and that all men thought it hard that
the life of an honest soldier was to be taken in place of that of
a villain and coward, who, if he had an atom of honor, would
give himself up.
(
(
)
## p. 10133 (#561) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10133
»
“May I beg of you, sir,” he returned, "to thank these gentle-
I
men of your army? 'Tis all I can do: and as to General Arnold
- no, Wynne, he is not one to do that; I could not expect it. ”
Before I rose to go on his errand I said, - and I was a little
embarrassed, - “May I be pardoned, sir, if I put to you a quite
personal question ? »
"Assuredly,” he returned. «What is it, and how can a poor
devil in my situation oblige you? ”
I said: "I have but of late learned that the exchanges were
all settled when I met my cousin Arthur Wynne at Amboy.
Could it have been that the letter I bore had anything to do
with this treason of General Arnold ? Within a day or two this
thought has come to me. ”
Seeing that he hesitated, I added, “Do not answer me unless
you see fit: it is a matter quite personal to myself. ”
"No," he replied: "I see no reason why I should not. Yes,
it was the first of the letters sent to Sir Henry over General
Arnold's signature. Your cousin suggested you as a messenger,
whose undoubted position and name would insure the safe car-
riage of what meant more to us than its mere contents seemed
to imply. Other messengers had become unsafe; it was needful
at once to find a certain way to reply to us.
The letter you
bore was such as an officer might carry, as it dealt seemingly
with nothing beyond questions of exchange of prisoners. For
these reasons, on a hint from Captain Wynne, you were selected
as a person beyond suspicion. I was ill at the time, as I believe
Mr. Wynne told you. "
“It is only too plain,” said I. It must have been well
known at our headquarters in Jersey that this exchange business
was long since settled. Had I been overhauled by any shrewd
or suspicious officer, the letter might well have excited doubt and
have led to inquiry. ”
“Probably: that was why you were chosen, -as a man of
known character. By the way, sir, I did not know of the selec-
tion, nor how it came about, until my recovery.
I had no part
in it. ”
I thanked him for thus telling me of his having no share in
the matter.
« You were ordered,” he continued, “as I recall it, to avoid
your main army in the Jerseys: you can now see why. There
is no need of further concealment. ”
»
(
a
## p. 10134 (#562) ##########################################
IO134
S. WEIR MITCHELL
It was clear enough. "I owe you,” I said, “my excuses for
intruding a business so personal. "
"And why not? I am glad to serve you.
It is rather a
relief, sir, to talk of something else than my own hopeless case.
Is there anything else? Pray, go on: I am at your service. ”
“ You are most kind. I have but one word to add: Arthur
Wynne was nay, must have been — deep in this business ? »
"Ah, now you have asked too much,” he replied; “but it is I
who am to blame. I had no right to name Captain Wynne. ”
“You must not feel uneasy. I owe him no love, Mr. André;
but I will take care that you do not suffer. His suggestion that
.
I should be made use of, put in peril not my life but my honor.
It is not to my interest that the matter should ever get noised
abroad. "
"I see,” he said. « Your cousin must be a strange person.
Do with what I have said as seems right to you. I shall be - or
rather,” and he smiled quite cheerfully, "I am content. One's
grammar forgets to-morrow sometimes. )
His ease and quiet seemed to me amazing. But it was getting
late, and I said I must go at once.
As I was in act to leave, he took my hand and said: There
are no thanks a man about to die can give that I do not offer
you, Mr. Wynne. Be assured your visit has helped me. It is
much to see the face of a friend. All men have been good to
me and kind, and none more so than his Excellency.
If to-
morrow I could see, as I go to death, one face I have known in
happier hours
it is much to ask — I may count on you, I am
sure. Ah, I see I can! And my letter you will be sure to do
your best ? »
(
“Yes,” I said, not trusting myself to speak further, and only
adding, “Good-by," as I wrung his hand. Then I went out into
the cold October starlight.
It was long after ten when I found Hamilton. I told him
briefly of my interview, and asked if it would be possible for me
to deliver in person to the general Mr. André's letter. I had in
fact that on my mind, which, if but a crude product of despair,
I yet did wish to say where alone it might help or be consid-
ered.
Hamilton shook his head. “I have so troubled his Excellency
as to this poor fellow that I fear I can do no more. Men who
do not know my chief cannot imagine the distress of heart this
c
## p. 10135 (#563) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10135
business has caused. I do not mean, Wynne, that he has or had
the least indecision concerning the sentence, but I can tell you
this,- the signature of approval of the court's finding is tremu-
lous and unlike his usual writing. We will talk of this again.
Will you wait at my quarters ? I will do my best for you. ”
I said I would take a pipe, and walk on the road at the foot
of the slope below the house in which Washington resided. With
this he left me.
The night was clear and beautiful; from the low hills far and
near the camp bugle-calls and the sound of horses neighing filled
the air. Uneasy and restless, I walked to and fro up and down
the road below the little farm-house. Once or twice I fancied I
saw the tall figure of the chief pass across the window-panes. A
hundred yards away was the house I had just left. There sat
a gallant gentleman awaiting death. Here, in the house above
me, was he in whose hands lay his fate. I pitied him too, and
wondered if in his place I could be sternly just. At my feet the
little brook babbled in the night, while the camp noises slowly
died away. Meantime, intent on my purpose, I tried to arrange
in my mind what I would say, or how plead a lost cause. I have
often thus prearranged the mode of saying what some serious
occasion made needful. I always get ready; but when the time
comes I am apt to say things altogether different, and to find,
too, that the wisdom of the minute is apt to be the better wis-
dom.
At last I saw Hamilton approaching me through the gloom.
“Come,” he said. “His Excellency will see you, but I fear it
will be of no use. He himself would agree to a change in the
form of death; but Generals Greene and Sullivan are strongly of
opinion that to do so in the present state of exasperation would
be unwise and impolitic. I cannot say what I should do were
I he. I am glad, Wynne, that it is not I who have to decide. I
lose my sense of the equities of life in the face of so sad a busi-
At least I would give him a gentleman's death.
erals who tried the case say that to condemn a man as a spy, and
not at last to deal with him as Hale was dealt with, would be
impolitic, and unfair to men who were as gallant as the poor
fellow in yonder farm-house. ”
« It is only too clear,” I said.
“Yes, they are right, I suppose; but it is a horrible business. ”
ness.
The gen-
## p. 10136 (#564) ##########################################
10136
S. WEIR MITCHELL
As we discussed, I went with him past the sentinels around
the old stone house and through a hall, and to left into a large
room.
« The general sleeps here,” Hamilton said in a lowered voice.
“We have but these two apartments; across the passage is his
dining-room, which he uses as his office. Wait here;” and so say-
ing, he left me. The room was large, some fifteen by eighteen
feet, and so low-ceiled that the Dutch builder had need to con-
trive a recess in the ceiling to permit of a place for the tall
Dutch clock he had brought from Holland. Around the chimney-
piece were Dutch tiles. Black Billy, the general's servant, sat
asleep in the corner, and two aides slumbered on the floor; tired
out, I fancy. I walked to and fro over the creaking boards, and
watched the Dutch clock. As it struck eleven, the figure of
Time, seated below the dial, swung a scythe and turned a tiny
hour-glass. A bell rang; an orderly came in and woke up an
aide: «Dispatch for West Point, sir, in haste. ” The young fel-
”
low groaned, stuck the paper in his belt, and went out for his
long night ride.
At last my friend returned. « The general will see you pres-
ently, Wynne; but it is a useless errand. Give me André's let- .
ter. ” With this he left me again, and I continued my impatient
walk. In a quarter of an hour he came back. Come,” said he:
“I have done my best, but I have failed as I expected to fail.
Speak your mind freely; he likes frankness. ” I went after him,
and in a moment was in the farther room and alone with the
chief.
A huge fire of logs blazed on the great kitchen hearth; and
at a table covered with maps and papers, neatly set in order, the
general sat 'writing.
He looked up, and with quiet courtesy said, “Take a seat,
Captain Wynne. I must be held excused for a little. I bowed
and sat down, while he continued to write.
His pen moved slowly, and he paused at times, and then
went on apparently with the utmost deliberation. I was favor-
ably placed to watch him without appearing to do so, his face
being strongly lighted by the candles in front of him. He was
dressed with his usual care, in a buff waistcoat and a blue-and-
buff uniform, with powdered hair drawn back to a queue and
carefully tied with black ribbon.
»
C
## p. 10137 (#565) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10137
-
The face, with its light blue eyes, ruddy cheeks, and rather
heavy nose above a strong jaw, was now grave, and I thought,
stern. At least a half-hour went by before he pushed back his
chair and looked up.
I am fortunate as regards this conversation, since on my re-
turn I set it down in a diary; which, however, has many gaps,
and is elsewhere incomplete.
“Captain Wynne,” he said, “I have refused to see several
gentlemen in regard to this sad business; but I learn that Mr.
André was your friend, and I have not forgotten your aunt's
timely aid at a moment when it was sorely needed. For these
reasons, and at the earnest request of Captain Hamilton and the
marquis, I am willing to listen to you. May I ask you to be
brief ? »
He spoke slowly, as if weighing his words.
I replied that I was most grateful -- that I owed it to Major
André that I had not long ago endured the fate which was now
to be his.
“Permit me, sir,” he said, to ask when this occurred. ”
I replied that it was when, at his Excellency's desire, I had
entered Philadelphia as a spy; and then I went on briefly to re-
late what had happened.
“Sir,” he returned, "you owed your danger to folly, not to
what your duty brought. You were false, for the time, to that
duty. But this does not concern us now. It may have served as
a lesson, and I am free to admit that you did your country a
great service. What now can I do for you? As to this unhappy
gentleman, his fate is out of my hands. I have read the letter
which Captain Hamilton gave me. ” As he spoke, he took it
from the table and deliberately read it again, while I watched
him. Then he laid it down and looked up. I saw that his big
patient eyes were over-full as he spoke.
"I regret, sir, to have to refuse this most natural request; I
have told Mr. Hamilton that it is not to be thought of. Neither
shall I reply. It is not fitting that I should do so, nor is it
necessary or even proper that I assign reasons which must
already be plain to every man of sense.
Is that all ? »
I said, “Your Excellency, may I ask but a minute more ?
"I am at your disposal, sir, for so long. What is it ? »
I hesitated, and I suspect, showed plainly in my face my
doubt as to the propriety of what was most on my mind when I
>
## p. 10138 (#566) ##########################################
10138
S. WEIR MITCHELL
(
sought this interview. He instantly guessed that I was embar-
rassed, and said with the gentlest manner and a slight smile:-
"Ah, Mr. Wynne, there is nothing which can be done to save
your friend, nor indeed to alter his fate; but if you desire to say
more, do not hesitate. You have suffered much for the cause
which is dear to us both. Go on, sir. ”
Thus encouraged, I said: "If on any pretext the execution
can be delayed a week, I am ready to go with a friend” – I
counted on Jack — "to enter New York in disguise, and to bring
out General Arnold. I have been his aide, I know all his habits,
and I am confident that we shall succeed if only I can control
near New York a detachment of tried men. I have thought over
my plan, and am willing to risk my life upon it. ”
“You propose a gallant venture, sir, but it would be certain
to fail; the service would lose another brave man, and I should
seem to have been wanting in decision for no just or assignable
cause. ”
I was profoundly disappointed; and in the grief of my failure
I forgot for a moment the august presence which imposed on all
men the respect which no sovereign could have inspired.
"My God! sir,” I exclaimed, "and this traitor must live
unpunished, and a man who did but what he believed to be his
duty must suffer a death of shame! ” Then, half scared, I looked
up, feeling that I had said too much. He had risen before I
spoke, - meaning, no doubt, to bring my visit to an end; and
was standing with his back to the fire, his admirable figure giv-
ing the impression of greater height than was really his.
When, after my passionate speech, I looked up, having of
course also risen, his face wore a look that was more solemn
than any face of man I have ever yet seen in all my length of
years.
“There is a God, Mr. Wynne," he said, "who punishes the
traitor. Let us leave this man to the shame which every year
must bring. Your scheme I cannot consider. I have no wish to
conceal from you or from any gentleman what it has cost me
to do that which, as God lives, I believe to be right. You, sir,
have done your duty to your friend. And now, may I ask of
you not to prolong a too painful interview ? »
I bowed, saying, "I cannot thank your Excellency too much
for the kindness with which you have listened to a rash young
man. ”
## p. 10139 (#567) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10139
son
>
"You have said nothing, sir, which does not do you honor.
Make my humble compliments to Mistress Wynne. ”
I bowed, and backing a pace or two, was about to leave, when
he said,
Permit me to detain you a moment. Ask Mr. Harri-
the secretary to come to me. ”
I obeyed; and then in some wonder stood still, waiting.
"Mr. Harrison, fetch me Captain Wynne's papers. ” A moment
later he sat down, again wrote the free signature, “Geo Wash-
ington,” at the foot of a parchment, and gave it to me, saying,
“That boy Hamilton has been troubling me for a month about
this business. The commission is but now come to hand from
Congress. You will report, at your early convenience, as major,
to the colonel of the Third Pennsylvania foot; I hope it will
gratify your aunt. Ah, Captain Hamilton,” for here the favor-
ite aide entered, “I have just signed Mr. Wynne's commission. ”
Then he put a hand affectionately on the shoulder of the small,
slight figure. “You will see that the orders are all given for the
execution at noon. Not less than eighty files from each wing
must attend. See that none of my staff be present, and that this
house be kept closed to-morrow until night. I shall transact no
business that is not such as to ask instant attention. See, in any
case, that I am alone from eleven until one. Good evening, Mr.
Wynne; I hope that you will shortly honor me with your com-
pany at dinner. Pray remember it, Mr. Hamilton. ”
I bowed and went out, overcome with the kindliness of this
great and noble gentleman.
“He likes young men,” said Hamilton to me long afterward.
“An old officer would have been sent away with small com-
fort. ”
It was now late in the night; and thinking to compose myself,
I walked up and down the road, and at last past the Dutch
church, and up the hill between rows of huts and rarer tents. It
was a clear starlit night, and the noises of the great camp were
for the most part stilled. A gentle slope carried me up the hill,
back of André's prison, and at the top I came out on a space
clear of these camp homes, and stood awhile under the quiet of
the star-peopled sky. I lighted my pipe with help of flint and
steel, and walking to and fro, set myself resolutely to calm the
storm of trouble and helpless dismay in which I had been for
two weary days. At last, as I turned in my walk, I came on
two upright posts with a cross-beam above. It was the gallows.
)
## p. 10140 (#568) ##########################################
10140
S. WEIR MITCHELL
I moved away horror-stricken, and with swift steps went down
the hill and regained Jack's quarters.
Of the horrible scene at noon on the 2d of October I shall
say very little. A too early death never took from earth a more
amiable and accomplished soldier. I asked and had leave to
stand by the door as he came out. He paused, very white in his
scarlet coat, smiled, and said, “Thank you, Wynne; God bless
you! ” and went on, recognizing with a bow the members of the
court, and so with a firm step to his ignoble death. As I had
promised, I fell in behind the sad procession to the top of the
hill. No fairer scene could a man look upon for his last of earth.
The green range of the Piermont hills rose to north. On all
sides, near and far, was the splendor of the autumn-tinted woods,
and to west the land swept downward past the headquarters to
where the cliffs rose above the Hudson. I can see it all now
the loveliness of nature, the waiting thousands, mute and pitiful
I shut my eyes and prayed for this passing soul. A deathful
stillness came upon the assembled multitude. I heard Colonel
Scammel read the sentence. Then there was the rumble of the
cart, a low murmur broke forth, and the sound of moving steps
was heard.
It was over. The great assemblage of farmers and
soldiers went away strangely silent, and many in tears.
The effort I so earnestly desired to make for the capture of
Arnold was afterward made by Sergeant Champe, but failed, as
all men now know. Yet I am honestly of opinion that I should
have succeeded.
Years afterward, I was walking along the Strand in London,
when, looking up, I saw a man and woman approaching. It was
Arnold with his wife. His face was thin and wasted, a counte-
nance writ over with gloom and disappointment. His masculine
vigor was gone. Cain could have borne no plainer marks of vain
remorse. He looked straight before him. As I crossed the way,
with no desire to meet him, I saw the woman look up at him; a
strange, melancholy sweetness in the pale, worn face of our once
beautiful Margaret.
and officers were continually coming hither in hopes to gather
fresh news of the great treason, or curious as to this strange
capture of Sir Henry Clinton's adjutant. General officers came
and went with grave faces; aides mounted and rode away in
haste; all was excitement and anxious interest, - every one asking
questions, and none much the wiser. With difficulty I succeeded
in sending in a note to Hamilton along with Jack's report. This
was nigh to nine in the morning, but it was after midday before
I got a chance to see my friend.
Meanwhile I walked up and down in a state of such agitation
and distress as never before nor since have I known. When I
had seen Major Tallmadge, he knew but little of those details of
Arnold's treason which later became the property of all men;
but he did tell me that the correspondence had been carried on
for Sir Henry by André in the name of Anderson, and this
brought to my mind the letter which the Quaker farmer declined
to surrender to me at the time I was serving as Arnold's aide.
I went back at last to Jack's hut in the valley near the river,
and waited. I leave Jack to say how I felt and acted that day
and evening, as I lay and thought of André and of poor Mar-
garet Shippen, Arnold's wife: -
“Never have I seen my dear Hugh in such trouble. Here
was a broken-hearted woman, the companion of his childhood;
and André, who, at a moment which must have called upon his
every instinct as a soldier, held back and saved my friend from
a fate but too likely to be his own. Hugh all that evening lay
in our hut, and now and then would break out declaring he must
do something; but what, he knew not, nor did I. He was even
## p. 10128 (#556) ##########################################
10128
S. WEIR MITCHELL
so mad as to think he might plan some way to assist André
to escape. I listened, but said nothing, being assured from long
knowledge that his judgment would correct the influence of the
emotion which did at first seem to disturb it.
"Now all this miserable business is over, I ask myself if our
chief would have tried to buy an English general; or if so, would
I or Hugh have gone on such an errand as André's. To be a
spy is but a simple duty, and no shame in it; but as to the
shape this other matter took, I do not feel able to decide. ”
Still later he adds:
“Nor is my mind more fully settled as to it to-day; some
think one way, some another. I had rather André had not gone
on this errand with the promise of a great reward. Yet I think
he did believe he was only doing his duty. ”
After an hour or more of fruitless thinking, not hearing from
Mr. Hamilton, I walked back to headquarters. Neither in the
joy and pride of glad news, nor when disaster on disaster fell on
us, have I ever seen anything like the intensity of expectation
and of anxiety which at this time reigned in our camps. The
capture of the adjutant-general was grave enough; his fate hung
in no doubtful balance: but the feeling aroused by the fall of a
great soldier, the dishonor of one greatly esteemed in the ranks,
the fear of what else might come, all served to foster uneasiness
and to feed suspicion. As the great chief had said, whom now
could he trust, or could we? The men talked in half-whispers
about the camp-fires; an hundred wild rumors were afloat; and
now and again eager eyes looked toward the low brick church
where twelve general officers were holding the court-martial
which was to decide the fate of my friend.
It was evening before the decision of the court-martial became
generally known. I wandered about all that day in the utmost
depression of mind. About two in the afternoon of this 29th of
September, I met Hamilton near the creek. He said he had
been busy all day, and was free for an hour: would I come
and dine at his quarters ? what was the matter with me?
I was
glad of the chance to speak freely. We had a long and a sad
talk, and he then learned why this miserable affair affected
me so deeply. He had no belief that the court could do other
than condemn Mr. André to die. I asked anxiously if the chief
were certain to approve the sentence. He replied gloomily, "As
surely as there is a God in heaven. ”
1
## p. 10129 (#557) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
T0129
I could only wait. A hundred schemes were in my mind,
each as useless as the others, In fact, I knew not what to do.
On the 30th his Excellency signed the death-warrant; and all
hope being at an end, I determined to make an effort to see the
man to whom I believe I owed my life. When I represented
the matter to Mr. Hamilton and to the Marquis de Lafayette, I
put my request on the ground that Mr. André had here no one
who could be called a friend, excepting only myself; and that to
refuse me an interview were needlessly cruel. I wrote my appli-
cation with care, the marquis, who was most kind throughout,
charging himself with the business of placing it favorably before
our chief.
The execution had been ordered for October ist; but upon
receipt of some communication from Sir Henry Clinton, it was
postponed until noon on October 2d.
On the 30th I rode out into the hills back of Tappan, and
tried to compose myself by my usual and effective remedy of a
hard ride. It was useless now. I came back to my friend's
quarters and tried to read, finding a stray volume of the Ram-
bler on his table. It was as vain a resort.
Never at any time in my memory have I spent two days of
such unhappiness. I could get no rest and no peace of mind.
To be thus terribly in the grip of events over which you have
no control, is to men of my temper a maddening affliction. My
heart seemed all the time to say, “Do something,” and my rea-
son to reply, “There is nothing to do. ” It was thus in the jail
when my cousin was on my mind; now it was as to André, and
as to the great debt I owed him, and how to pay it. People who
despair easily do not fall into the clutches of this intense cray-
ing for some practical means of relief where none can be. It is
the hopeful, the resolute, and such as are educated by success,
who suffer thus. But why inflict on others the story of these
two days, except to let those who come after me learn how one
of their blood looked upon a noble debt, which, alas! like many
debts, must go to be settled in another world, and in other ways
than ours.
Hamilton, who saw my agitation, begged me to prepare for
disappointment. I, however, could see no reason to deny a man
access to one doomed, when no other friend was near.
Nor was
I wrong. About seven in the evening of the ist, the marquis
came in haste to find me. He had asked for my interview with
XVII-634
## p. 10130 (#558) ##########################################
.
10130
S. WEIR MITCHELL
Mr. André as a favor to himself. His Excellency had granted
the request in the face of objections from two general officers,
whom the marquis did not name.
As I thanked him he gave
me this order:
“To Major Tallmadge :
“The bearer, Hugh Wynne, Esq. , Captain Second Company,
Third Regiment of Pennsylvania Foot, has herewith permission
to visit Major André.
“GEOWASHINGTON.
"October ist, 1780. "
I went at once — it was now close to eight in the evening -
to the small house of one Maby, where the prisoner was kept.
It was but an hundred yards from his Excellency's quarters. Six
sentries marched to and fro around it, and within the room two
officers remained day and night with drawn swords.
My pass
was taken at the door of the house, while I waited on the road
without. In a few minutes an officer came to me with Major
Tallmadge's compliments, and would I be pleased to enter?
I sometimes think it strange how, even in particulars, the
natural and other scenery of this dark drama remains distinct
in my memory, unaffected by the obliterating influence of the
years, which have effaced so much else I had been more glad
to keep
I can
see to-day the rising moon, the yellowish road, the
long gray stone farm-house of one story, with windows set in an
irregular frame of brickwork. The door opens, and I find myself
in a short hall, where two officers salute as I pass. My con-
ductor says, “This way, Captain Wynne ”; and I enter a long,
cheerless-looking apartment, the sitting-room of a Dutch farm-
house. Two lieutenants, seated within at the doorway, rose as I
entered, and saluting me, sat down again. I stood an instant
looking about me. A huge log fire roared on the hearth, so
lighting the room that I saw its glow catch the bayonet tips of
the sentinels outside, as they went and came. There were a half-
dozen wooden chairs, and on a pine table four candles burning,
a bottle of Hollands, a decanter and glasses. In a high-backed
chair sat a man with his face to the fire. It was André. He
was tranquilly sketching, with a quill pen, a likeness of himself. *
* My acquaintance, Captain Tomlinson, has it.
## p. 10131 (#559) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
JO131
He did not turn or leave off drawing until Captain Tomlinson,
one of the officers in charge, seeing me pause, said:-
"Your pardon, major. Here is a gentleman come to visit
you. ”
»
As he spoke the prisoner turned, and I was at once struck by
the extreme pallor of his face, even as seen in the red light of
the fire. His death-like whiteness at this time brought out the
regular beauty of his features, as his usual ruddiness of color
never did. I have since seen strong men near to certain death,
but I recall no one who, with a serene and untroubled visage,
was yet as white as was this gentleman.
The captain did not present me; and for a moment I stood
with a kind of choking in the throat, which came, I suppose, of
the great shock André's appearance gave me. He was thus the
first to speak.
“Pardon me,” he said as he rose: “the name escaped me. ”
“Mr. Hugh Wynne,” I said, getting myself pulled together -
it was much needed.
"O Wynne! ” he cried quite joyously: "I did not know you.
How delightful to see a friend; how good of you to come! Sit
down. Our accommodations are slight. Thanks to his Excel-
lency, here are Madeira and Hollands: may I offer you a
glass ? »
“No, no," I said, as we took chairs by the fire; on which he
cast a log, remarking how cold it was. Then he added:
"Well, Wynne, what can I do for you ? ” And then, smiling,
Pshaw! what a thing is habit! What can I do for you, or
indeed, my dear Wynne, for any one ? But Lord! I am as glad
as a child. ”
It was all so sweet and natural that I was again quite over-
come.
“My God! ” I cried, I am so sorry, Mr. André! I came down
from King's Ferry in haste when I heard of this, and have been
three days getting leave to see you. I have never forgotten your
great kindness at the Mischianza. If there be any service I can
render you, I am come to offer it. ”
He smiled and said, “How strange is fate, Mr. Wynne!
Here am I in the same sad trap in which you might have been.
I was thinking this very evening of your happier escape. ” Then
he went on to tell me that he had instantly recognized me at
the ball, and also — what in my confusion at the time I did not
## p. 10132 (#560) ##########################################
10132
S. WEIR MITCHELL
hear - that Miss Peniston had cried out as she was about to
faint, "No, no, Mr. André! » Afterward he had wondered at
what seemed an appeal to him rather than to my cousin.
At last he said it would be a relief to him if he might speak
to me out of ear-shot of the officers. I said as much to these
gentlemen; and after a moment's hesitation, they retired outside
of the still open doorway of the room, leaving us freer to say
what we pleased. He was quiet, and as always, courteous to a
fault; but I did not fail to observe that at times, as we talked
and he spoke a word of his mother, his eyes filled with tears.
In general he was far more composed than I.
He said:-"Mr. Wynne, I have writ a letter, which I am
allowed to send to General Washington. Will you see that he
has it in person ? It asks that I may die a soldier's death. All
else is done. My mother — but no matter. I have wound up
my earthly affairs. I am assured, through the kindness of his
Excellency, that my letters and effects will reach my friends and
those who are still closer to me. I had hoped to see Mr. Hamil-
ton to-night, that I might ask him to deliver to your chief the
letter I now give you. But he has not yet returned, and I must
trust it to you to make sure that it does not fail to be consid-
ered. That is all, I think. ”
I said I would do my best, and was there no more - no
errand of confidence – nothing else?
"No," he replied thoughtfully; "no, I think not.
,
(I
I shall
never forget your kindness. Then he smiled and added, "My
never' is a brief day for me, Wynne, unless God permits us to
remember in the world where I shall be to-morrow. ”
I hardly recall what answer I made. I was ready to cry
like a child, He went on to bid me say to the good Attorney.
General Chew that he had not forgotten his pleasant hospitalities;
and he sent also some amiable message to the women of his
house, and to my aunt, and to the Shippens, speaking with the
ease and unrestraint of a man who looks to meet you at dinner
next week, and merely says a brief good-by.
I promised to charge myself with his messages, and said at
last that many officers desired me to express to him their sorrow
at his unhappy situation; and that all men thought it hard that
the life of an honest soldier was to be taken in place of that of
a villain and coward, who, if he had an atom of honor, would
give himself up.
(
(
)
## p. 10133 (#561) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10133
»
“May I beg of you, sir,” he returned, "to thank these gentle-
I
men of your army? 'Tis all I can do: and as to General Arnold
- no, Wynne, he is not one to do that; I could not expect it. ”
Before I rose to go on his errand I said, - and I was a little
embarrassed, - “May I be pardoned, sir, if I put to you a quite
personal question ? »
"Assuredly,” he returned. «What is it, and how can a poor
devil in my situation oblige you? ”
I said: "I have but of late learned that the exchanges were
all settled when I met my cousin Arthur Wynne at Amboy.
Could it have been that the letter I bore had anything to do
with this treason of General Arnold ? Within a day or two this
thought has come to me. ”
Seeing that he hesitated, I added, “Do not answer me unless
you see fit: it is a matter quite personal to myself. ”
"No," he replied: "I see no reason why I should not. Yes,
it was the first of the letters sent to Sir Henry over General
Arnold's signature. Your cousin suggested you as a messenger,
whose undoubted position and name would insure the safe car-
riage of what meant more to us than its mere contents seemed
to imply. Other messengers had become unsafe; it was needful
at once to find a certain way to reply to us.
The letter you
bore was such as an officer might carry, as it dealt seemingly
with nothing beyond questions of exchange of prisoners. For
these reasons, on a hint from Captain Wynne, you were selected
as a person beyond suspicion. I was ill at the time, as I believe
Mr. Wynne told you. "
“It is only too plain,” said I. It must have been well
known at our headquarters in Jersey that this exchange business
was long since settled. Had I been overhauled by any shrewd
or suspicious officer, the letter might well have excited doubt and
have led to inquiry. ”
“Probably: that was why you were chosen, -as a man of
known character. By the way, sir, I did not know of the selec-
tion, nor how it came about, until my recovery.
I had no part
in it. ”
I thanked him for thus telling me of his having no share in
the matter.
« You were ordered,” he continued, “as I recall it, to avoid
your main army in the Jerseys: you can now see why. There
is no need of further concealment. ”
»
(
a
## p. 10134 (#562) ##########################################
IO134
S. WEIR MITCHELL
It was clear enough. "I owe you,” I said, “my excuses for
intruding a business so personal. "
"And why not? I am glad to serve you.
It is rather a
relief, sir, to talk of something else than my own hopeless case.
Is there anything else? Pray, go on: I am at your service. ”
“ You are most kind. I have but one word to add: Arthur
Wynne was nay, must have been — deep in this business ? »
"Ah, now you have asked too much,” he replied; “but it is I
who am to blame. I had no right to name Captain Wynne. ”
“You must not feel uneasy. I owe him no love, Mr. André;
but I will take care that you do not suffer. His suggestion that
.
I should be made use of, put in peril not my life but my honor.
It is not to my interest that the matter should ever get noised
abroad. "
"I see,” he said. « Your cousin must be a strange person.
Do with what I have said as seems right to you. I shall be - or
rather,” and he smiled quite cheerfully, "I am content. One's
grammar forgets to-morrow sometimes. )
His ease and quiet seemed to me amazing. But it was getting
late, and I said I must go at once.
As I was in act to leave, he took my hand and said: There
are no thanks a man about to die can give that I do not offer
you, Mr. Wynne. Be assured your visit has helped me. It is
much to see the face of a friend. All men have been good to
me and kind, and none more so than his Excellency.
If to-
morrow I could see, as I go to death, one face I have known in
happier hours
it is much to ask — I may count on you, I am
sure. Ah, I see I can! And my letter you will be sure to do
your best ? »
(
“Yes,” I said, not trusting myself to speak further, and only
adding, “Good-by," as I wrung his hand. Then I went out into
the cold October starlight.
It was long after ten when I found Hamilton. I told him
briefly of my interview, and asked if it would be possible for me
to deliver in person to the general Mr. André's letter. I had in
fact that on my mind, which, if but a crude product of despair,
I yet did wish to say where alone it might help or be consid-
ered.
Hamilton shook his head. “I have so troubled his Excellency
as to this poor fellow that I fear I can do no more. Men who
do not know my chief cannot imagine the distress of heart this
c
## p. 10135 (#563) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10135
business has caused. I do not mean, Wynne, that he has or had
the least indecision concerning the sentence, but I can tell you
this,- the signature of approval of the court's finding is tremu-
lous and unlike his usual writing. We will talk of this again.
Will you wait at my quarters ? I will do my best for you. ”
I said I would take a pipe, and walk on the road at the foot
of the slope below the house in which Washington resided. With
this he left me.
The night was clear and beautiful; from the low hills far and
near the camp bugle-calls and the sound of horses neighing filled
the air. Uneasy and restless, I walked to and fro up and down
the road below the little farm-house. Once or twice I fancied I
saw the tall figure of the chief pass across the window-panes. A
hundred yards away was the house I had just left. There sat
a gallant gentleman awaiting death. Here, in the house above
me, was he in whose hands lay his fate. I pitied him too, and
wondered if in his place I could be sternly just. At my feet the
little brook babbled in the night, while the camp noises slowly
died away. Meantime, intent on my purpose, I tried to arrange
in my mind what I would say, or how plead a lost cause. I have
often thus prearranged the mode of saying what some serious
occasion made needful. I always get ready; but when the time
comes I am apt to say things altogether different, and to find,
too, that the wisdom of the minute is apt to be the better wis-
dom.
At last I saw Hamilton approaching me through the gloom.
“Come,” he said. “His Excellency will see you, but I fear it
will be of no use. He himself would agree to a change in the
form of death; but Generals Greene and Sullivan are strongly of
opinion that to do so in the present state of exasperation would
be unwise and impolitic. I cannot say what I should do were
I he. I am glad, Wynne, that it is not I who have to decide. I
lose my sense of the equities of life in the face of so sad a busi-
At least I would give him a gentleman's death.
erals who tried the case say that to condemn a man as a spy, and
not at last to deal with him as Hale was dealt with, would be
impolitic, and unfair to men who were as gallant as the poor
fellow in yonder farm-house. ”
« It is only too clear,” I said.
“Yes, they are right, I suppose; but it is a horrible business. ”
ness.
The gen-
## p. 10136 (#564) ##########################################
10136
S. WEIR MITCHELL
As we discussed, I went with him past the sentinels around
the old stone house and through a hall, and to left into a large
room.
« The general sleeps here,” Hamilton said in a lowered voice.
“We have but these two apartments; across the passage is his
dining-room, which he uses as his office. Wait here;” and so say-
ing, he left me. The room was large, some fifteen by eighteen
feet, and so low-ceiled that the Dutch builder had need to con-
trive a recess in the ceiling to permit of a place for the tall
Dutch clock he had brought from Holland. Around the chimney-
piece were Dutch tiles. Black Billy, the general's servant, sat
asleep in the corner, and two aides slumbered on the floor; tired
out, I fancy. I walked to and fro over the creaking boards, and
watched the Dutch clock. As it struck eleven, the figure of
Time, seated below the dial, swung a scythe and turned a tiny
hour-glass. A bell rang; an orderly came in and woke up an
aide: «Dispatch for West Point, sir, in haste. ” The young fel-
”
low groaned, stuck the paper in his belt, and went out for his
long night ride.
At last my friend returned. « The general will see you pres-
ently, Wynne; but it is a useless errand. Give me André's let- .
ter. ” With this he left me again, and I continued my impatient
walk. In a quarter of an hour he came back. Come,” said he:
“I have done my best, but I have failed as I expected to fail.
Speak your mind freely; he likes frankness. ” I went after him,
and in a moment was in the farther room and alone with the
chief.
A huge fire of logs blazed on the great kitchen hearth; and
at a table covered with maps and papers, neatly set in order, the
general sat 'writing.
He looked up, and with quiet courtesy said, “Take a seat,
Captain Wynne. I must be held excused for a little. I bowed
and sat down, while he continued to write.
His pen moved slowly, and he paused at times, and then
went on apparently with the utmost deliberation. I was favor-
ably placed to watch him without appearing to do so, his face
being strongly lighted by the candles in front of him. He was
dressed with his usual care, in a buff waistcoat and a blue-and-
buff uniform, with powdered hair drawn back to a queue and
carefully tied with black ribbon.
»
C
## p. 10137 (#565) ##########################################
S. WEIR MITCHELL
10137
-
The face, with its light blue eyes, ruddy cheeks, and rather
heavy nose above a strong jaw, was now grave, and I thought,
stern. At least a half-hour went by before he pushed back his
chair and looked up.
I am fortunate as regards this conversation, since on my re-
turn I set it down in a diary; which, however, has many gaps,
and is elsewhere incomplete.
“Captain Wynne,” he said, “I have refused to see several
gentlemen in regard to this sad business; but I learn that Mr.
André was your friend, and I have not forgotten your aunt's
timely aid at a moment when it was sorely needed. For these
reasons, and at the earnest request of Captain Hamilton and the
marquis, I am willing to listen to you. May I ask you to be
brief ? »
He spoke slowly, as if weighing his words.
I replied that I was most grateful -- that I owed it to Major
André that I had not long ago endured the fate which was now
to be his.
“Permit me, sir,” he said, to ask when this occurred. ”
I replied that it was when, at his Excellency's desire, I had
entered Philadelphia as a spy; and then I went on briefly to re-
late what had happened.
“Sir,” he returned, "you owed your danger to folly, not to
what your duty brought. You were false, for the time, to that
duty. But this does not concern us now. It may have served as
a lesson, and I am free to admit that you did your country a
great service. What now can I do for you? As to this unhappy
gentleman, his fate is out of my hands. I have read the letter
which Captain Hamilton gave me. ” As he spoke, he took it
from the table and deliberately read it again, while I watched
him. Then he laid it down and looked up. I saw that his big
patient eyes were over-full as he spoke.
"I regret, sir, to have to refuse this most natural request; I
have told Mr. Hamilton that it is not to be thought of. Neither
shall I reply. It is not fitting that I should do so, nor is it
necessary or even proper that I assign reasons which must
already be plain to every man of sense.
Is that all ? »
I said, “Your Excellency, may I ask but a minute more ?
"I am at your disposal, sir, for so long. What is it ? »
I hesitated, and I suspect, showed plainly in my face my
doubt as to the propriety of what was most on my mind when I
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S. WEIR MITCHELL
(
sought this interview. He instantly guessed that I was embar-
rassed, and said with the gentlest manner and a slight smile:-
"Ah, Mr. Wynne, there is nothing which can be done to save
your friend, nor indeed to alter his fate; but if you desire to say
more, do not hesitate. You have suffered much for the cause
which is dear to us both. Go on, sir. ”
Thus encouraged, I said: "If on any pretext the execution
can be delayed a week, I am ready to go with a friend” – I
counted on Jack — "to enter New York in disguise, and to bring
out General Arnold. I have been his aide, I know all his habits,
and I am confident that we shall succeed if only I can control
near New York a detachment of tried men. I have thought over
my plan, and am willing to risk my life upon it. ”
“You propose a gallant venture, sir, but it would be certain
to fail; the service would lose another brave man, and I should
seem to have been wanting in decision for no just or assignable
cause. ”
I was profoundly disappointed; and in the grief of my failure
I forgot for a moment the august presence which imposed on all
men the respect which no sovereign could have inspired.
"My God! sir,” I exclaimed, "and this traitor must live
unpunished, and a man who did but what he believed to be his
duty must suffer a death of shame! ” Then, half scared, I looked
up, feeling that I had said too much. He had risen before I
spoke, - meaning, no doubt, to bring my visit to an end; and
was standing with his back to the fire, his admirable figure giv-
ing the impression of greater height than was really his.
When, after my passionate speech, I looked up, having of
course also risen, his face wore a look that was more solemn
than any face of man I have ever yet seen in all my length of
years.
“There is a God, Mr. Wynne," he said, "who punishes the
traitor. Let us leave this man to the shame which every year
must bring. Your scheme I cannot consider. I have no wish to
conceal from you or from any gentleman what it has cost me
to do that which, as God lives, I believe to be right. You, sir,
have done your duty to your friend. And now, may I ask of
you not to prolong a too painful interview ? »
I bowed, saying, "I cannot thank your Excellency too much
for the kindness with which you have listened to a rash young
man. ”
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son
>
"You have said nothing, sir, which does not do you honor.
Make my humble compliments to Mistress Wynne. ”
I bowed, and backing a pace or two, was about to leave, when
he said,
Permit me to detain you a moment. Ask Mr. Harri-
the secretary to come to me. ”
I obeyed; and then in some wonder stood still, waiting.
"Mr. Harrison, fetch me Captain Wynne's papers. ” A moment
later he sat down, again wrote the free signature, “Geo Wash-
ington,” at the foot of a parchment, and gave it to me, saying,
“That boy Hamilton has been troubling me for a month about
this business. The commission is but now come to hand from
Congress. You will report, at your early convenience, as major,
to the colonel of the Third Pennsylvania foot; I hope it will
gratify your aunt. Ah, Captain Hamilton,” for here the favor-
ite aide entered, “I have just signed Mr. Wynne's commission. ”
Then he put a hand affectionately on the shoulder of the small,
slight figure. “You will see that the orders are all given for the
execution at noon. Not less than eighty files from each wing
must attend. See that none of my staff be present, and that this
house be kept closed to-morrow until night. I shall transact no
business that is not such as to ask instant attention. See, in any
case, that I am alone from eleven until one. Good evening, Mr.
Wynne; I hope that you will shortly honor me with your com-
pany at dinner. Pray remember it, Mr. Hamilton. ”
I bowed and went out, overcome with the kindliness of this
great and noble gentleman.
“He likes young men,” said Hamilton to me long afterward.
“An old officer would have been sent away with small com-
fort. ”
It was now late in the night; and thinking to compose myself,
I walked up and down the road, and at last past the Dutch
church, and up the hill between rows of huts and rarer tents. It
was a clear starlit night, and the noises of the great camp were
for the most part stilled. A gentle slope carried me up the hill,
back of André's prison, and at the top I came out on a space
clear of these camp homes, and stood awhile under the quiet of
the star-peopled sky. I lighted my pipe with help of flint and
steel, and walking to and fro, set myself resolutely to calm the
storm of trouble and helpless dismay in which I had been for
two weary days. At last, as I turned in my walk, I came on
two upright posts with a cross-beam above. It was the gallows.
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I moved away horror-stricken, and with swift steps went down
the hill and regained Jack's quarters.
Of the horrible scene at noon on the 2d of October I shall
say very little. A too early death never took from earth a more
amiable and accomplished soldier. I asked and had leave to
stand by the door as he came out. He paused, very white in his
scarlet coat, smiled, and said, “Thank you, Wynne; God bless
you! ” and went on, recognizing with a bow the members of the
court, and so with a firm step to his ignoble death. As I had
promised, I fell in behind the sad procession to the top of the
hill. No fairer scene could a man look upon for his last of earth.
The green range of the Piermont hills rose to north. On all
sides, near and far, was the splendor of the autumn-tinted woods,
and to west the land swept downward past the headquarters to
where the cliffs rose above the Hudson. I can see it all now
the loveliness of nature, the waiting thousands, mute and pitiful
I shut my eyes and prayed for this passing soul. A deathful
stillness came upon the assembled multitude. I heard Colonel
Scammel read the sentence. Then there was the rumble of the
cart, a low murmur broke forth, and the sound of moving steps
was heard.
It was over. The great assemblage of farmers and
soldiers went away strangely silent, and many in tears.
The effort I so earnestly desired to make for the capture of
Arnold was afterward made by Sergeant Champe, but failed, as
all men now know. Yet I am honestly of opinion that I should
have succeeded.
Years afterward, I was walking along the Strand in London,
when, looking up, I saw a man and woman approaching. It was
Arnold with his wife. His face was thin and wasted, a counte-
nance writ over with gloom and disappointment. His masculine
vigor was gone. Cain could have borne no plainer marks of vain
remorse. He looked straight before him. As I crossed the way,
with no desire to meet him, I saw the woman look up at him; a
strange, melancholy sweetness in the pale, worn face of our once
beautiful Margaret.
