"Good!" said Ben. "Then we will be genuine soldiers, eh, Dick?" "Yes, indeed." "Say, that will be fine!" said Tom. "I'm ready. Lead the way to Colonel Morgan's quarters, Dick." A few minutes later the youths set out. They found Colonel Morgan and Dick gave him the note from the commander-in-chief, whereupon they were assigned to their new quarters, their names having been enrolled on the membership list of the regiment. "Now we are soldiers, sure enough!" murmured Tom Dare, his eyes shining. "Hurrah!" "Yes, patriot soldiers, Tom," said Dick, quietly. There was an air of satisfaction on his face also. "We will be ready to take part in the first battle that takes place," said Ben. "Say, that'll be fine. I am eager to be in a battle!" "And I," said Dick. "I want to fight for Independence and the freedom of the American people. And, too, I want to fight and rescue our father, Tom." "Yes, yes, Dick. We won't forget that part of our work!" said Tom. Chapter VI Chosen for Dangerous Work Dick, Tom and Ben made friends rapidly, and were soon well acquainted with the majority of the members of the company to which they had been assigned, and with many of the members of other companies that were quartered in the same building and near at hand. They had been in New York about a week, and were feeling quite at home. One afternoon, as they were sitting in the big front room, talking to some of the soldiers, the door opened and an orderly from headquarters was seen standing on the threshold. "Is there anyone here by the name of Dare?" he asked. "Dick Dare, I believe it is." "I am he," said Dick, advancing. "What is wanted?" "You are wanted at headquarters." "Now?" "Yes, at once. The commander-in-chief orders you to report." "I will go right along with you." "Very well. Such were his instructions." Dick put on his hat and took his departure in the orderly's company, after telling Ben and Tom that he would probably be back soon. They arrived quickly at headquarters, and Dick was ushered into the private room occupied by the commander-in-chief. Dick saluted and said: "You sent for me, your excellency?" "Yes, Dare. Be seated," and he pointed to a chair near his desk. Dick took the seat and then looked at the commander-in-chief inquiringly. General Washington did not say anything for a few moments, but eyed Dick keenly and searchingly. It was evident that he was appraising the boy's value carefully, and it seemed that the result was satisfactory, for he gave a sigh as of relief, and said: "How old are you, Dare?" "Eighteen, sir." "Eighteen. That is young. You are a mere youth, but somehow I believe you are the one to do what I wish done. I have a mind to try you, anyway. Dick," pausing and looking impressively at the youth, "if I were to ask you to undertake something that was exceedingly dangerous, something that might easily result in your death if you made a false step, what would you say?"