nty washed down by quantities of
Madeira and sherry and other imported beverages.

Toasts and healths were freely drunk. After the more customary ones to
the "Success of the War," to the "Success of General Washington," to the
"Nation" there came the usual healths to the host and the hostess, and
more especially to the "Appointment of General Arnold." The ceremonies
were interspersed with serious and animated conversation on the
political situation and the chances of the army in the field. Throughout
the entire meal a marked simplicity, a purity of manner, and frank
cordiality was manifest, all indicative of the charming and unaffected
homelife of the Americans.

"Miss Franks would have been pleased to be with us," announced the
General as the company awaited another service.

"Could you believe it, General," said Mrs. Shippen, "not once have we
heard from that girl since she moved to New York," and she set her lips
firmly. "That is so unlike her; I cannot understand it."

"But you know, Mother," explained Peggy, "that the mail cannot be
depended upon."

"I know, my dear, but I think that she could send a line, if it were
only a line, by messenger if she thought enough of us. You know it was
at our house that she met the friends with whom she is now engaged."

"Our mail system is deplorable," Mr. Shippen remarked. "Only yesterday I
received a letter which apparently had been sent months ago."

"I can understand that very readily," Arnold rejoined. "Often letters
are entrusted to travelers. At times these men deposit a letter at some
inn at the cross-roads for the next traveler who is bound for the same
place as the epistle. It often happens that such a missive remains for
months upon a mantelpiece awaiting a favorable opportunity. Then again
sheer neglect may be responsible for an unusual delay. I myself have
experience of that."

This explanation seemed to satisfy Mrs. Shippen for she dropped the
subject immediately. The mode of travel then occasioned a critical
comment from her until she finally asked when they intended to leave for
West Point.

"Very likely I shall leave before the week is out," replied Arnold. "It
is most important that I assume command at once. We shall prepare to
depart tomorrow."

They talked far into the night, the men smoking while the ladies
retired to the great drawing-room. Peggy played and sang, and took her
mother aside at intervals for conference upon little matters which
req