This mode of attack was agreed to without hesitation, and the daring proposer, who was well acquainted with the situation of the building, was allowed the honor, which he earnestly solicited, of leading on the storming party. Cor-nelius Oakley, James Oakley and Abraham Dyckman then prepared to make the assault at the head of the guides; plac-ing immediately before them one of the prisoners they had just taken, with assurances, that if he gave the right counter- sign when challenged, he should be well treated and set at liberty, otherwise he would be put to death upon the spot. The refugee at first refused to act the part assigned him, say-ing that if the lower party found it out, they would hang him, and rightfully; but the guides, after some persuasion, quieted both his honor and his fears by reminding him that he was acting under compulsion, and by the most solemn assur-ances that the fact should never be made known while the war lasted. The assailing party then moved forward in silence; Oakley of Whiteplains at the head of the guides, being a short distance in advance of the main body, while one half or more of the Continental detachment took post where they then were, in order to cover the retreat of their comrades.

THE NEUTRAL GROUND 11

As the guides approached Delancey's quarters, the soldier on guard hailed them, the true countersign was given by the captive royalist, and they continued moving forward, but while passing the sentinel, Abraham Dyckman rushed upon, disarmed and threw him to the ground, and at the same time prevented an alarm by holding his prisoner by the throat, and charging him at the peril of his life to keep quiet. Cush-ing then drew his party around the house in the utmost silence, while Cornelius Oakley, followed by the other guides and by Lieutenant Blake, advanced up to the building.