Mrs.Murray knew the danger that threatened the Americans.

Her woman's wit and woman's charm must save the hour.

So smiling she stood in the doorway, curtseying and inviting.
The day was hot; the officers thirsty.

To the minds of the British, contemptuous of the prowess of the troops in ragged blue and buff, what difference would an hour or two make when the _coup de grace_ was so easy to deliver?
The lady was charming, _grande dame,_ and her husband was known for devotion to King George.

So they stayed and drank and drank again, while the American forces were meeting on the site of the present Longacre Square.