“You have news, monsieur?” The face of the Count de Vergennes shone with satisfaction; this gentleman was ever a friend to America, and was always hungry for news of American success.
“Burgoyne’s troubles began with his advance upon Fort Edward. A thousand German mercenaries were killed and captured to begin with. Then he crossed the Hudson in force to turn the American position at Bemis Heights; but Arnold met him with desperate courage and held him back.”
A murmur of admiration went up from the Frenchmen present.
“A brilliant officer, this General Arnold,” commented the count.
“Burgoyne’s communications with Lake Champlain were then cut by a dashing enterprise of my countrymen; forced by the hunger of his men, the British general risked another battle,” proceeded Dr. Franklin, “and met with a crushing defeat.”
Another murmur went up; eyes sparkled with pleasure; hands applauded softly.
“But,” argued the Count de Vergennes, “the tables might be turned once more. Burgoyne may still conquer.”
“An hour ago I would have said as much for Arnold’s chances of victory,” said the count.
“I said that Burgoyne’s chance of ultimate victory was impossible, because after his defeat he retreated upon Saratoga. Finding himself surrounded he surrendered his entire force to General Gates.”
A cry of delight went up; the Americans were congratulated heartily.
“It was such news as this that we have been waiting for,” whispered the minister of foreign affairs to the aged commissioner. “From now on things will take a turn; success will await your negotiations now, where only delay and disappointment met you in the past.”
When all had gone save Captain Jones and Ethan Carlyle, Dr. Franklin said:
“You will pardon me, I’m sure. These letters spoke of a document of much importance as being in this packet.”
He broke the great red seals and tore off the covering; then, as they watched him, they saw his face take on a bewildered look.
“Strange,” said Dr. Franklin. “The entire page is blank save only for one word. Look.”
He held out the sheet, and they found staring them in the face, scrawled in huge, sprawling letters, the name:
“He got the packet after all,” cried Ethan, with a great leap at his heart.
“Explain your meaning,” said Dr. Franklin, still bewildered. “I do not understand.”