He attempted once to walk a minuet with me, and
I really thought he was a bear accidentally stumbled into coat and
slippers.
ROSE. You're quite right! he never should have got his appointment
until he had served a campaign in the drawing-room. If I were the
Congress, I'd appoint none who could not bring diplomas from their
dancing-masters.
ELSWORTH. Ha? 'pon my word! Very extraordinary news.
[_All coming forward._
ROSE. What is it, papa?
ELSWORTH. There has been a battle.
ROSE. Is it possible? Oh, where, sir?
ELSWORTH. On Long Island. [_Reading._] Washington has been
defeated--has evacuated the city--is retiring northward. [_Speaking_.]
I feel, my daughters, that our situation is becoming here unsafe. We
shall be continually exposed to the assaults of marauders. It would
be wiser, in the present aspect of affairs, for us to seek a securer
residence in New York, now so fortunately in possession of Sir William
Howe.
ROSE. I should prefer remaining here.
ELSWORTH. Would it be safe, Rose?
ROSE. Yes, for we neutralize each other. Your loyalty will secure
you with the Tories, and my Whiggism will protect us with the other
faction.
ELSWORTH. Your Whiggism, Rose? You shock me by such an avowal; and
your brother, too, an officer of the King.
KATE. I don't think there is much danger, if Mr. Armstrong is near to
protect us.
ELSWORTH. Mr. Armstrong?
KATE.
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