Andre monologue (Act 2) — André

Nay, nay; be cautious ever to admit That duty can beget dissimulation. On ground, unoccupied by either part, Neutral esteem'd, I landed, and was met. But ere my conference was with Arnold clos'd, The day began to dawn: I then was told That till the night I must my safety seek In close concealment. Within your posts convey'd, I found myself involv'd in unthought dangers. Night came. I sought the vessel which had borne Me to the fatal spot; but she was gone. Retreat that way cut off, again I sought Concealment with the traitors of your army. Arnold now granted passes, and I doff'd My martial garb, and put on curs'd disguise! Thus in a peasant's form I pass'd your posts; And when, as I conceiv'd, my danger o'er, Was stopt and seiz'd by some returning scouts. So did ambition lead me, step by step, To treat with traitors, and encourage treason; And then, bewilder'd in the guilty scene, To quit my martial designating badges, Deny my name, and sink into the spy.