Mynheer Huysman introduced him briefly to the others, and he responded, in every case, with a pull at a long lock on his forehead.

His superficial appearance was that of a simpleton, but Robert noticed sharp, observant eyes under the thick eyebrows.

Mynheer Jacobus, Willet and Master Hardy, excusing themselves for a few minutes, went into an inner room.
"What has Mynheer Van Zoon been doing, Peter ?" asked Jacobus.
"He has talked with three contractors for the army," replied the lad.
"He also had a short conversation with Colonel Ephraim Williams of the Massachusetts militia." "Williams is a thoroughly honest man," said Mr.Hardy.

"His talk with Van Zoon could only have been on legitimate business.

We'll dismiss him.
What more have you seen, Peter ?" "Late in the afternoon he went to his schooner, the _Dirkhoeven_, which is anchored in the river.