THE MISCHIANZA I had not intended to remain in Philadelphia through the night.

Already I had secured the information sought, and now must consider the safest and quickest method of escape.

It seemed to me this night, given up to revelry, afforded the best possible opportunity for my safely passing the British guard-lines.

To-morrow discipline would be resumed, the soldiers would return to their posts and the citizens of the city would again appear on the streets.

This would greatly intensify my danger, for, at any moment, I might encounter some one who knew me, who might denounce me to the authorities.
That this was the exact truth of the situation could not be denied, yet, now, every reckless impulse of my disposition urged me to remain; the invitation of those laughing blue eyes, the challenge I read in the lady's fair face, the unsolved mystery of her identity, all combined in a temptation I found it impossible to resist.