I now returned to my tent, with my mind deeply imbued with the shocking scene I had been called to witness."

Every authentic account that we have, shows how much our officers regretted the necessity of Andre's death, and how amply they fulfilled his parting adjuration. " The tears of thousands," says Thacher, "fell on the spot where he la)-, and no one refrained from proclaiming his sympathy. Many wept openly as he died ; among whom, it is recorded, (apparently on the testimony of Laune) was La Fayette. Certainly the marquis bore witness to the infinite regret with which the fate of such a noble and magnanimous character inspired him. It was believed in the army that Washington's soul revolted at the task, and that he could scarcely command the pen when he subscribed the fatal warrant An American officer who was present, and who brought the news to Burgoyne's troops detained at Winchester, asserted that our General shed tears on the execution, and would fain have changed its mode.

The sorrow and indignation of Andre's friends gave occasion to many unfounded charges. At Southampton, where his family connections extended, it was reported that Clinton solicited "as a singular favor," after his dear friend and companion should be hung, the body might be sent to him. But Washington refused. Clinton then sent again, that since> the sentence was to bury the body under the gallows, it might be taken up and brought to New York, there to be interred with the military honors due to so brave and accomplished a young man. This, Washington also refused.