why I am here.

Char. A spy! Oh, God!

Carter. I'm safe so far. I've been all through the camp dressed
as a pedler. I got the plans; all Morgan has to know. Have you seen
Winthrop? Does he come here?

Mrs. S. No.

Carter. Thank God! Then I can stay till midnight.

Mrs. S. Where have you been the past three days?

Carter. We've been hiding in a cane-brake two miles down the
river. Uncle and Gordon are with me; the others went back to Morgan.
As soon as I get to him with the plans of Winthrop's forces, he will
attack. Have you a horse here?

Bev. Yes, Tony; you can take him.

Carter. We thought the enemy had gone on down the river. If
I could get the plans, I was to take them on to Morgan, and they to
follow. Here, take the paper, Charlotte. I must not lose a minute.
Bring that candle. (He gives Charlotte a paper).

[Fair brings candle and holds it for Charlotte to read.

I must not carry that. 'Twould mean my certain death if I were captured.
I run the chances as it is. Here, see if I know it?

Char. (opens paper). Begin.

Carter (reciting). "Twelfth Massachusetts, under Winthrop's command,
stationed on south bank of Aspen river, two miles below station known as
Fairmount Junction. Evident plans for encampment of some days. Long
hill, covered with scrub pine and bushes, on right. Affords excellent
cover. Aspen river on left. Too deep to attempt ford. Large encampment.
Valuable stores. Pickets stationed quarter mile out on all roads." Is
that right?

Char. Yes, you know it--you are sure?

Carter. I've said it over to myself until I know it backward.
Burn it.

Char. The candle, Fair. (She holds paper in flame until
destroyed; she tears remaining bits). Is there any more?

Carter. Yes, but I am sure of it all. If I can only get to Morgan
with it, we can wipe them from existence.

Fair. You mean you'd kill them all?

Carter. I've learned more than just the location of the enemy.

Fair. What else?

Carter. I have Winthrop's plans.

Fair (almost in a whisper). How?

Carter. I stole them from his tent.

Fair. You have them with you?

Carter. I memorized and then destroyed them. (He turns to Mrs.
S.). What time is it?

Mrs. S. About seven.

Carter. Uncle and Gordon may come on here. We were almost certain
the camp had moved. If they do not come before I leave, watch out and
take them in.

Mrs. S. When were they coming?

Carter. Later. We thought it best not to travel all