CHAPTER IV.
The Robinson House to Tappan—Suspense.
Uncertainty!
Fell demon of our fears! The human soul,
That can support despair, supports not thee.—Maiast.—Mustapha.
T
iHB historic dwelling in which Arnold had had his head-
quarters since August, when he assumed command of the
West Point district, was built about 1750, and was one of
the landmarks of the region. It stood on the east bank of the
Hudson, one-quarter of a mile from the water's edge, and two
officeb>s button, miles below and southeast of West Point itself. Its builder and
64th BBITISH REGIMENT. ...
occupant until 1776 was Beverly Robinson, a man of note and
wealth, and Washington's personal friend until the Revolution separated them.
He removed to New York and raised a regiment, known as the " Loyal Americans,"
for the British cause. The confiscation of his property followed, and was the
prime cause of the correspondence with Arnold which has been noted. By a
singular and sinister coincidence his regiment formed part of Arnold's force,
almost exactly a year later, when the traitor captured Fort Griswold, butchered
many of its garrison, and burnt New London. Robinson left for England with
the British at the end of the war, and never returned.1
After his long night ride of thirty miles, added to the fatiguing experiences
of the two preceding days, Andre must have been thoroughly wearied, besides
being probably wet from the heavy rain. Though Smith was also in the house,
they did not meet. There is some variance between the different accounts as to
the events of Tuesday, but most agree that—at least until evening—the day
passed quietly for both the prisoners. It was doubtless a welcome rest for each
of them. That day Washington notified Congress of the events of the preceding
four days, in this characteristic despatch:
Robinson's House, in the
Highlands, September 26.
To the President of Congress:
Sir,—I have the honor to inform Congress that I arrived here yesterday at about
twelve o'clock on my return from Hartford. Some hours previous to my arrival General
Arnold went from his quarters, which were this place, and, as it was supposed, over the
1 It is believed Robinson knew of Arnold's plan even before Clinton did. He had, about the 15th September,
written to Arnold, enclosing a letter for Putnam, about his estate, and the traitor sent the letter we have
already noticed on page 5 to the Vulture openly, under a flag of trace.—Lossing.
