“Yes, my boy, these are times when children as well as men grow old rapidly. It is possible for you to be of great aid to the American Army. To my mind the only reason why you may fail of so doing is that the enemy capture you too soon, for hark you, lad, this duty I would put upon the Minute Boys of Long Island, is indeed a man’s work, although I believe you who have been in the custom of sailing around the harbor in your boat, might effect more than good soldiers, because of being less likely to arouse suspicion. In a way, this is what I desire: The enemy’s fleet have already arrived off Sandy Hook, and as yet we have no definite information as to the strength of the force. What I desire is that you shall cruise nearabout the British vessels until it is possible to give us the fullest information concerning them. This is not as simple a matter as you may suppose,” he added on seeing that I was about to interrupt. “Orders will have been given for the arrest of any who may be found in the vicinity of the vessels without having been summoned, and I am free to say that the chances in favor of your being made prisoners are many.” At this point the general ceased speaking and looked at me inquiringly, whereupon I said, trying to make myself appear as brave as possible: “We will do all that lads may, sir. When shall we set off?” “Without delay, and you will make report as soon as you have learned anything definite. For example, we will suppose that you have been able to give us the number and names of the ships lying at anchor before arousing the suspicions of the enemy. In such event, you will send one of your number, as privately as may be, here to me with the information. In the meanwhile the remainder of your crew will stay near at hand, on whatsoever pretext you may devise, to gain further knowledge, and if you see a movement among the fleet which betokens an immediate advance on this city, consider not the hazard of the undertaking, but come to me at once.” “Very well, sir,” I said, making my best bow, and thinking the interview was at an end, but before I could leave the room he checked me, by saying: “Open that door, and summon Lieutenant Winterbottom.” On doing as he directed I found the lieutenant stationed very near the door as if on duty, and without waiting for me to speak he entered, whereupon the general said to him in a tone of command: “Take this order to the quartermaster’s office, and see that these lads be given of stores sufficient to victual four men for ten days, the same to be delivered at whatever quarter of the city is most convenient for them.” Then he wrote a few words on a slip of paper, and handing it to the lieutenant, asked of me: “Have you weapons on board your craft?”