Like the Dawn | An AMC's Turn: Washington's Spies Fanfiction

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Etta had often imagined what a meeting with General George Washington would be like. She would politely curtsy, and he would take her hand in his own and kiss it. They would chat over cups of tea with battle plans strewn across the table. Ultimately, she would prove so capable, that he would bow at her feet. Etta hadn't imagined, however, the anxiousness that would well within her at the mere sight of his tent. Etta mentally cursed her weakness. She had fought in many battles and not once did she feel as afraid as she did now. The weight of all she hoped for sat on her shoulders, and she knew that if this meeting was not successful, she would be done for.

Major Tallmadge opened the flap of the tent and gestured for Etta to step inside before him. She gave him a brisk nod of thanks and entered. Washington's tent was larger than the average soldier's. Etta quietly observed the room, noting a desk was situated against the far corner. Papers and an ink well sat atop it, evidence of the late nights the General no doubt endured corresponding to Congress. In the middle of the tent was a long dining table, barren save a wine glass and a copy of Plato's Republic. Etta smiled when she saw it. It reminded her of when she was younger, breaking into her father's study to read whatever she could get her hands on. Etta took her education into her own hands when her parents refused to hire a tutor. While her father was occupied by court and her mother was too busy planning balls to pay her any mind, Etta devoured Plato, Aristotle, and Shakespeare, immersing herself in law, politics, and philosophy.

"'There is in every one of us, even those who seem the most moderate, a type of desire that is terrible, wild, and lawless'," Etta recited softly to herself. Major Tallmadge gave her a quizzical look before turning to Washington, who was urgently speaking with Billy Lee, his personal servant.

"Sir, I brought the prisoner as you asked."

Etta scowled at the Major at his use of prisoner, but relented when Washington cleared his throat to get her attention.

"Miss..."

"Black, Sir. Henrietta Black."

The General gestured for Major Tallmadge to leave. The young man hesitated, but Washington gave him a stern look and the Major reluctantly left the tent. Etta turned back to Washington, who observed her with a pensive expression on his face.

"Miss Black, the Major told me your tale, and I am quite interested in hearing the intelligence you claim to have obtained while serving the British. I would be lying if I said I wasn't impressed with your alias."

Etta offered the General a shy smile. "Officer Locke dined with my family prior to his death and made an awful scene regarding a close friend of mine. I found it fitting."

The General let out a throaty chuckle. "Yes, fitting indeed."

Etta grew impatient as Washington fell silent.

"Trenton," she blurted out, catching the man off guard. She mentally cursed herself for her rashness and collected herself before continuing.

"A band of Hessian mercenaries, 1,500 strong, are headed to Trenton within the month, sir."

The General eyed the young woman before him, careful not to respond right away. Etta grew impatient again.

"My regiment was in New Jersey on a scouting mission. Major Andre believed there to be spies within the area. I suspect he was planning on sending a man into York City as well as Long Island. He believes there to be a spy ring operating near one of those two locations."

"Thank you, Miss Black. Your intelligence will most certainly prove useful, and I am indebted to you. I will have Major Tallmadge ensure your safe return back home."

Etta froze, glancing at the General. Despite the harms it took for her to obtain such intelligence, he would have her return home to sit and do needlepoint. Not only that, but Washington acted as if she hadn't just told him information that would secure a Continental victory.