SWINDON (embarrassed). Oh, not you, I as--

BURGOYNE. Don't mention it. (To Richard, very politely) Any
political views, Mr. Anderson?

RICHARD. I understand that that is just what we are here to find
out.

SWINDON (severely). Do you mean to deny that you are a rebel?

RICHARD. I am an American, sir.

SWINDON. What do you expect me to think of that speech, Mr.
Anderson?

RICHARD. I never expect a soldier to think, sir.

Burgoyne is boundlessly delighted by this retort, which almost
reconciles him to the loss of America.

SWINDON (whitening with anger). I advise you not to be insolent,
prisoner.

RICHARD. You can't help yourself, General. When you make up your
mind to hang a man, you put yourself at a disadvantage with him.
Why should I be civil to you? I may as well be hanged for a sheep
as a lamb.

SWINDON. You have no right to assume that the court has made up