American Scenery, Vol. 1 (of 2): or, Land, lake, and river illustrations of transatlantic natureWillis, Nathaniel Parker
General
American Scenery, Vol. 1 (of 2): or, Land, lake, and river illustrations of transatlantic nature
Willis, Nathaniel Parker
United States -- Description and travel
stream, and arrived safe on board the Vulture sloop of war, lying some
miles below.
Having finished his inspection of the redoubt, Washington arrived at
Arnold’s house, received the message, and concluded to cross immediately
and meet Arnold at West Point. As the whole party were seated in the
barge moving smoothly over the water, with the majestic scenery of the
highlands about them, Washington said, “Well, gentlemen, I am glad, on
the whole, that General Arnold has gone before us, for we shall now have
a salute; and the roaring of the cannon will have a fine effect among
these mountains.” The boat drew near to the beach, but no cannon were
heard, and there was no appearance of preparation to receive them.
“What!” said Washington, “do they not intend to salute us!” At this
moment an officer was seen making his way down the hill to meet them,
who seemed confused at their arrival, and apologized for not being
prepared to receive such distinguished visitors. “How is this, Sir,”
said Washington, “is not General Arnold here?” “No, Sir,” replied the
officer, “he has not been here these two days, nor have I heard from him
within that time.” “This is extraordinary,” said Washington; “we were
told he had crossed the river, and that we should find him here.
However, our visit must not be in vain. Since we have come, we must look
round a little, and see in what state things are with you.” He then
ascended the hill, examined Fort Putnam and the other fortifications,
and returned to Arnold’s house, where the treason was at once revealed.
This had occupied two or three hours, however, and Arnold was beyond
pursuit. Washington retained his usual calmness, though Arnold was one
of his favourite officers, and had been placed at West Point by his own
personal influence with Congress. He called Lafayette and Knox, showed
them the proofs, and only said to the former, “Whom can we trust now!”
[Illustration]
VIEW OF STATE STREET, BOSTON.
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Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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