He then overtook his charge, and they proceeded until between eight and nine at night, when they were hailed by the sentinel of a patrolling party. This was near Crompond, and about eight miles from Verplanck's Point The sentinel ordered them to stop, and Smith dismounted, gave the bridle of his horse to his servant, walked forward, and inquired who commanded the party. He was answered, 'Captain Boyd,' who, overhearing the conversation, immediately appeared. The captain was unusually inquisitive, and demanded of him who he was, where he belonged, and what was his business. Smith answered these questions promptly, adding that he had a pass from General Arnold, and desired not to be detained. The captain was not yet satisfied, but inquired how far he meant to go that night ; to which he replied, as far as Major Strang's or Colonel Drake's ; but' this only increased the embarrassment, for the captain informed him that Major Strang was not at home, and Colonel Drake had removed to another part of the country.

Captain Boyd then said that he must sec the passport ; and, it being dark, they went to a house at a small distance to procure a light Andre began to be a little alarmed, and advanced with reluctance towards the house, till he was encouraged by Smith, who assured him that Arnold's pass would certainly protect them.

And so it proved; for the pass was expressed in positive terms, and there was no room to doubt its genuineness or its authority.