Toliver's Secret

Grandfather explains the situation to Ellen. His profession of barbering for British soldiers means he overhears important information, and he has time-sensitive information for Washington’s army that can arrive no later than tomorrow night. With Christmas two weeks away, Grandfather insists that they must be cunning. Though everyone was elated to hear about the Declaration of Independence the previous July, Washington has recently been on a losing streak in the area, and this information could help him.

Grandfather explains that Ellen would board an oysterman’s boat at Market-house, cross New York Bay to Elizabeth, New Jersey, and find Mr. Shannon in the pub he owns. The Shannons would find her a return boat, and she’d be back the next morning. Ellen says she’ll do it. Ellen changes into Ezra’s old clothes, feeling freer in his trousers. Mother cuts Ellen’s hair short. Grandfather and Mother commend Ellen’s bravery, and Ellen sets off.

Ellen worries people will recognize her, but no one does. She sees two boys, Aaron and Arnie, having a snowball fight with Dicey. They scare Dicey off and then take Ellen’s bread, which Grandfather tied in a blue cloth.