Now I am old and grey, and my strength is failing. But I shall endeavor to write down for you a true and accurate account of my adventures. Treat it well, for it is not just my story-but America's. I simply helped to write her story. But the honor and glory really goes to all who believed in a higher calling and made this country great. "Prudence, indeed, will dictate, that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all expenses hath shewn, that mankind are disposed to suffer while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations pursuing invariably the same Object envices a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government and to provide new Guards for their future security." -Thomas Jefferson-from the Declaration of Independence.
Chapter One: The Rebel Spy
The was war in the air. Every since the tea had gone overboard in Boston harbor the British had been on their way. And now they flooded the city and spread out into the countryside as well. I couldn't help but worry as I slipped on my riding clothes and boots and headed out to the stable where my mare-Liberty- was saddled and waiting. I nodded my thanks to the groom who held her and mounted. My riding dress was SO uncomfortable, and as I rode out of Boston I muttered under my breath "Bear witness. I wear this awful suit for the cause of Freedom." There was no one around to hear me, and that was just the way I liked it. I felt beneath my saddle for the hidden packet. I felt proud and pleased that Mr. Hancock would trust me enough to deliver messages. Proud as a peacock, in fact. I kicked Liberty into a gallop. We flew across the grass towards Concord. As we rode, I couldn't help thinking about it all.
I-Marie Patience Priscilla Hudson- was a rebel spy! Who would have thought that one of Boston's richest merchants and his lovely motherless daughter were involved in the rebel's cause! I never though of this but that shivers ran down my spine. It was so thrilling and adventurous and wonderfully exciting and romantic! But all my thoughts were cut short as I rode up to the bridge. Two British soldiers stood armed at the dock. I slowed Liberty to a walk and put on my best smile and tried to think charming thoughts, but all I could think about was the package under the saddle.
The older of the men had a round middle, and was sweating with a red face that matched the red wool of his uniform. The younger looked just as uncomfortable. "Good day to you, gentlemen," I said as I rode up.
The older straightened up. "Now who are you and where are you going, little lass?"
I smiled and looked as proper as I could. "My name is Marie Hudson. I am going to visit my aunt in Concord-just for the afternoon."
He didn't look pleased or happy. Who could in his situation? He wiped his forehead with a dirty hankerkief. "Well, you can go." he waved me on. The younger soldier was busy cleaning his riffle as I rode slowly across the bridge. Once across I kicked Liberty into a canter. That was too close. But, you know, there are advantages to being a lady. No one suspects you. No one.
Two hours later I was done with my "visiting" -having slipped Aunt Mary my package. I rode back by the same bridge, and the older soldier waved my through without even saying anything. I was a pleased as a peacock as I rode back home. Andrews-the groom- took Liberty when I got home. I rushed upstairs and took a quick bath, changed into a lovely purple evening gown and some silver slippers. We had company for dinner- and I of course was the hostess. I turned my hair up with a turquoise comb and slipped out into the hall. It was five minutes before the guests would arrive. I checked to make sure no one was watching, then hoisted my shirts and slid down the polished oak banister. My hand was on the nob when the first guest knocked.
-Hope you like!