He talked upon poetry, the arts, and literature; lamented the war. and hoped for a speedy peace."^ As they passed Major Strang's house, two miles below Yorktown church, they were observed by its inmates, who supposed them to be Continental officers. " In this manner they passed along, without being accosted by any person, till they came within two miles and a half of Pine's Bridge. At this place Smith had determined to end his journey in the direction of White Plains. The Cowboys, whom he seemed anxious to avoid, had recently been above-
^ Sparks' Life of Arnold, 214, 215,216, 217. ^ Ibid 217.
Vol. I. 27
210 HISTORY OF THE
the bridge, and the territory below was considered their appropriate domain. The travellers partook of a frugal breakfast together at the house of a good Dutch woman, who had been plundered by three marauders, but who was yet enabled lo set before them a repast of hasty pudding and milk.^ This being dispatched, ^Smith divided liis small stock of paper money with Andre, took a final leave, and, with his servant, hastened back to Peekskill, and the same evening to Fishkill, where he had left his family four days before, at the house of his brother-in-law. On his way, he took the road leading to Robinson's house, where he called on General Arnold, and dined. He gave an account of Andre's progress, and mentioned the place where he left him, with which Arnold appeared well pleased. It is to be understood, however, that Smith had not, at this time, as he always affirmed, any knowledge of Andre's true character, and that he supposed his name to be John Anderson.