We were close pent up in a bedroom, with a vidette at the door and window. There was a spacious yard before the door, which he desired he might be permitted to walk in with me. I accordingly disposed of my guard in such a manner as to prevent an escape. While walking together he observed he must make a confidant of somebody, and knew not a more proper person than myself, as I had appeared to befriend a stranger in distress. After settling the point between ourselves, he told me who he was and gave me a short account of himself, from the time he was taken in St. Johns in 1775 10 tnat time. Returning to the house, writing materials were supplied him ; and he was informed that his papers were sent to ■Washington, whose orders, and not Arnold's, should decide his condition, he immediately wrote to our commander."

The letter we have already given in the foregoing pages.

"This letter written, a load was lifted from Andre's mind. He was no longer compelled to associate with gentlemen under a false name and guise. Despite Tallmadge's previous suspicions, its cona Spark's Life of Arnold, p. 253-4.

456 HISTORY OF THE COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER.

tents amazed him when it was given him to read; but neither he, nor King, Bronson, and the other officers at the post, could remain unmoved by the refinement and amiability of their guest. His other arts came in aid of his conversational powers, and with ready hand and easy light-heartedness of manner, he sketched his own progress under the rude escort of militia, to their quarters. ' This,' said he to Bronson, ' will give you an idea of the style in which I have had the honor to be conducted to my present abode.' With such pleasantries he passed away the morning unconcernedly, as though he were in no danger whatever.