. His purpose was to extort
something from the prisoner in reference to his supposed knowledge of
the course of operations of Sumpter, from whose camp Innis did not doubt
this letter regarding St. Jermyn had come. He spoke in a short, quick,
and peremptory tone:

"It may be well for you," he said, "that your friends do not too rashly
brave my authority. Let me advise you to warn them that others may fall
into our hands; and that if the ensign be not delivered up, there may be
a dreadful retaliation."

"I know not, sir, of what or whom you speak," replied Butler; "and it is
due to my honor to say, that I will not be induced, for the sake of
saving my life, to interfere with any operations which the soldiers of
Congress may have undertaken in the cause of the country. In this
sentiment I admonish Colonel Innis that I desire to be put in possession
of no facts from him that may be communicated under such an expectation.
And having made this determination known to you, I will add to it that,
from the same motives, I will answer no questions you can propose to me.
You may spare yourself, therefore, the useless labor of this visit. My
life is in your hands, and I have already experienced with what justice
and clemency you will use your power when you dare."

"A more humble tone," said Innis, with a bitter smile, "I think would
better suit your circumstances." And with this remark the commandant
haughtily walked out of the apartment.

The next morning, whilst Butler was taking his breakfast, which had been
brought to him by one of the soldiers of the guard, he heard a loud
cheering from the troops that at that hour were on parade in the plain.
This was followed by the discharge of a _feu de joie_ from the whole
line, and a flourish of drums and trumpets.

"What is that?" he inquired eagerly of the soldier, who, forgetful, in
the excitement of the moment, of the order to restrain his intercourse
with the prisoner, answered--

"They have just got the news from Camden: two days ago Cornwallis
defeated Gates, and cut his army to pieces. The troops are rejoicing for
the victory, and have just had the despatches read."

Butler heaved a deep sigh, as he said, "Then all is lost, and liberty is
but a name! I feared it; God knows, I feared it."

The soldier was recalled to his duty by the sentinel at the door, and
Butler was again left alone.

This was a day of crowding events. The tidings of the battle of Camden,
gained on t