Free Sophia's War by Avi

I should approach. By that time I had seen so many British soldiers I could read their uniforms. That is to say, I knew which ones were common soldiers, which officers. John André had told me that British officers purchased their commissions. Therefore, since officers were most likely gentlemen, my innocence suggested they would be less inclined to take a bribe. Such reasoning suggested a lower-grade soldier would have more need and be more inclined to help me. So I scanned the line of guards and picked out a young soldier.
    He was about the same age as William, with red cheeks and flaxen hair beneath his tall hat. On his shoulder was a musket with a bayonet, taller than he was. As I drew closer, he came to attention.
    â€œYes, miss,” he said, standing stiffly. “Good morning. You can’t come any further, miss.”
    â€œI know, sir. But I’m searching for my brother. I saw him led into the building, a prisoner.”
    â€œSorry, miss. Can’t rightly help you.”
    â€œIs there a way to be sure he’s here?”
    â€œMiss, there are some five thousand prisoners in the city.”
    I did not move.
    The soldier sighed. “The sergeant down the line, miss. He’s got a ledger, but under orders from Provost Cunningham, he’s not to give out names.”
    â€œIs it something you can determine, sir?”
    â€œNot usually, miss.”
    I held out my hand. The two shilling pieces Mr. Gaine had given me rested in my palm. “It would be a kindness, sir.”
    He stood still, as if considering my request. I observed his eyes move, first to my hand, then along the line of soldiers as if trying to determine if he was being watched.
    â€œStep closer, miss,” he said in an undertone.
    I did so, my hand out.
    Quick as a flea jump, his free hand snatched the coins.
    â€œWhat’s his name?” he asked.
    â€œWilliam. William Calderwood.”
    â€œBack off,” said the soldier, “as if going away.”
    I retreated some yards. He stood where he had been until I wondered if he was going to do as I asked. Thenhe shifted and marched down along the line of guards before stopping in front of a man I took to be an officer. They seemed to confer. Their hands touched. I suspect shillings were divided. The officer opened what appeared to be a book.
    Back came my soldier. I waited for a few moments, then approached.
    When I drew near, he spoke in a low voice to say, “He’s been transferred to the sugarhouse on Crown Street.”
    I had no choice but to walk away. My only thought was John André must help us .

21
    HOME AGAIN AND by my father’s bed, the first thing I asked was “Did you speak to Lieutenant André?”
    â€œNot yet.”
    I told them what I had learned about William, after which Father said, “When I speak to the lieutenant, I’m sure he’ll at least arrange a visit. We’ll bring food. Dr. Dastuge.” He lowered his voice. “Find a way to free him.”
    In the end, however, I had to tell them that whatever we did—even with John André’s help—I had little doubt it would take lots of money. Had I not given all Mr. Gaine gave me just to get information?
    Mother said, “Lieutenant André said someone would take his place. But that officer is not likely to be so forthright in his payments.”
    â€œHere’s some good fortune,” said Father. “While you were gone, Mr. Gaine stepped by. He and I agreed to terms and conditions for your employment. Five shillings the day. He expects to see you tomorrow.”
    â€œHopefully,” said Mother, “that money will be sufficient.”
    I surely desired it. But even more than that, I countedon John André’s words, “If there is anything I can do for you, you need only ask.”
    Which meant there was nothing to do but wait for Father to speak to him.

22
    AS IT HAPPENED , that night the lieutenant came home