I came here to-night to tell you about spies." "Then why the mischief don't you do it?
You'll drive me mad with your halting tongue.

Speak man, or I'll choke you!" and with that the officer stood up and bent forward over Jake, to that young man's serious discomfiture.
"They's some spies here--" Jake began.

"Where ?" asked the impatient officer interrupting him.
"Down there, in a camp," said Jake, talking as rapidly as he could, lest the officer should interrupt him again; "Down there in a camp by the bay, an' they've got a boat an' guns, an' they're boys, an' they pretend to be a fishin' party." "Ah!" said the Lieutenant, "I thought I'd make you find your tongue.
Now listen to me, and answer my questions, and mind you don't lie to me, sir; mind you don't lie." "I won't.

I pledge you my honor--," began Jake.
"Never mind pledging that; it isn't worth pledging.

You see you're a sneak, else you wouldn't be here telling tales on your fellow countrymen.