Dinner was instantly prepared, and
beds were offered, but Mrs Tarleton wished to proceed on her journey
that very afternoon. At first Mr Plowden would on no account consent
to this arrangement, but, Mrs Tarleton having explained to him her
earnest desire to see her brother, or to gain tidings of him, he
willingly promised to do his utmost to enable her to proceed.

"I fear much, however, madam, that you will be exposed to insult from
the troops of the enemy who still occupy part of the Jerseys, though I
feel sure that the inhabitants, whatever side of the question they take,
would in no way annoy you."

Mrs Tarleton looked at me as this was said. We were sitting at dinner,
a midday meal, with several members of Mr Plowden's family round the
table. My instructions from Sir Peter were to see the ladies in safety
with Washington's army. I turned to Mr Plowden--

"If, sir, you can guarantee the safety of my vessel during my absence,
and secure me free egress from this harbour on my return, I will proceed
with Mrs Tarleton and Miss Carlyon, and I trust shall have the means of
securing them from any inconvenience of the nature to which you allude."

Mr Plowden thought a little.

"I can be answerable for the safety of your vessel, and that no one will
prevent her leaving the harbour when you return," he answered. "But
remember, sir, I cannot prevent your people quitting her if they wish to
do so."

"I will trust to your honour, then, sir," said I. "My men are staunch,
and I have no fear of their deserting her. I am ready to set out
whenever the ladies desire it."

"And I have determined to accompany you," exclaimed Lieutenant Spinks,
grasping my hand again. "One good turn deserves another. This is the
gentleman who preserved my life, and I want to show that I am grateful.
He will be safe enough from molestation on his way to General
Washington's camp, but he may find some difficulty when returning."

Of course I told Mr Spinks that I should be very glad of his society,
though I wondered how he could be certain of obtaining leave of absence
from his regiment. I soon learned, however, that both officers and men
took the liberty of giving themselves leave, with very little ceremony,
from many of the militia regiments, into which but a very slack style of
discipline had as yet been introduced.

While the ladies were resting, and preparing for their journey, I
returned on board the tender, and, leaving Grampus i