"He gave a gentle rap at the door, which was soon cautiously opened--
_cautiously_, because it was now late--and, in those times, no one
knew when he was safe. The light fell on Crosby's face, and the
searching eye of Mr. Young followed.

"'Sir,' said Crosby, in haste to make his excuse, 'I understand you
are a true friend to your country, and I have important--'

"'Come in, come in,' said Mr. Young--the expression of Crosby's face
carrying more conviction of honesty, than words could do--'come in--
you travel late--'

"'I have reason for it,' replied the now animated soldier--' I am told
you are a friend to the upper party--I have something to tell you
which may be important."

"'What is it,' asked Mr. Young.

"'Sir,' said Crosby--'do you know the character of the people who live
around you?'

"'I think I do,' said Mr. Young.

"'They are traitors,' said Crosby.

"'Many are--too many,' said Mr. Young--'but they pass for friends, and
it is difficult to discriminate--difficult to bring them to justice.'

"'Well!' said Crosby, 'I have the means of pointing them out. I have
been among them--I know them--I know their plans--and--'