stating what had passed, after he got on board the galley, where he
was kindly received. He was immediately conducted to New York, and
introduced to the British commandant, to whom he presented a letter from
the captain of the galley. Being asked to what corps he belonged, and a
few other general questions, he was sent under charge of an
orderly-sergeant to the adjutant-general, who was rejoiced to find that
he was sergeant-major of the legion of horse, hitherto remarkable for
their fidelity.
The adjutant-general noted down, in a large folio book, some particulars
in regard to Champe--his size, figure, place of birth, countenance, the
color of his hair, name of the corps to which he had belonged. After
this was finished, he was sent to the commander-in-chief in charge of
one of the staff, with a letter from the adjutant-general. Sir Henry
Clinton received him very kindly, and detained him more than an hour,
asking many questions in regard to the probable fate of Andre--whether
the example of Arnold's defection had not contaminated many of the
American officers and troops--whether Washington was popular with the
army, and what means might be employed to induce the men to desert. To
these various interrogatories, some of which were perplexing, Champe
answered warily; exciting, nevertheless, hopes that the adoption of
proper measures to encourage desertion, would probably bring off
hundreds of the American soldiers, including some of the best troops,
horse as well as foot. Respecting the fate of Andre, he said he was
ignorant, though there appeared to be a general wish in the army that
his life might not be taken; and that he believed that it would depend
more on the disposition of Congress, than on the will of Washington.
After the close of this long conversation, Sir Henry presented Champe
with a couple of guineas, and recommended him to wait on General Arnold,
who was engaged in raising an American legion for the service of his
majesty. Arnold expressed much satisfaction on being informed of the
effect of his example, and the manner of Champe's escape. He concluded
his numerous inquiries by assigning quarters to the sergeant. He
afterward proposed to Champe to join his legion, promising him the same
station he had held in the rebel service, and further advancement.
Expressing his wish to retire from the service, and his conviction of
the certainty of his being hung, if ever taken by the rebels, he begged
to be excus
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