" Having avowed myself a Britisli officer, I have nothing to reveal but what relates to myself, which is true on the honor of an officer and a gentleman.

'' The request I have to make to your excellency, and I am conscious I address myself well, is, that in any rigor policy may dictate, a decency of conduct towards me may mark, that, though unfortunate, I am branded with nothing dishonorable, as no motive could be mine but the service of my King, and as I was involuntarily an impostor.

" Another request is, that I may be permitted to write an open letter to Sir. Henry Clinton, and another to a friend for clothes and linen.

'^ I take the liberty to mention the condition of some gentlemen at Charleston, who being either on parole or under protection, were engaged in a conspiracy against us. Though their situation is not similar, they are objects who may be set in exchange for me, or are persons whom the treatment I receive might affect.

" It is no less, sir, in confidence of the generosity of your mind, than on account of your superior station, that I have chosen to importune you with this letter. I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your excellency's most obedient and humble servant,

'' John Andre. Adjutant GeneraU-

When he had finished this letter, he handed it open to Major Tallmadge, who perused it with astonishment and strong amotion ; for, although he believed the writer to be a military man, yet he had not supposed him a person of such rank, nor dreamed of the dangerous plot in which he had been acting a part. The letter was sealed and sent to General Washington. From that moment Andre's mind seemed relieved.