This was, however, put off
from time to time; and, tho' I call'd often for it by appointment,
I did not get it. At length, just before my departure, he told me
he had, on better consideration, concluded not to mix his accounts
with those of his predecessors. "And you," says he, "when in England,
have only to exhibit your accounts at the treasury, and you will be
paid immediately."
I mention'd, but without effect, the great and unexpected expense I
had been put to by being detain'd so long at New York, as a reason
for my desiring to be presently paid; and on my observing that it was
not right I should be put to any further trouble or delay in obtaining
the money I had advanc'd, as I charged no commission for my service,
"0, sir," says he, "you must not think of persuading us that you are
no gainer; we understand better those affairs, and know that every
one concerned in supplying the army finds means, in the doing it,
to fill his own pockets." I assur'd him that was not my case,
and that I had not pocketed a farthing; but he appear'd clearly
not to believe me; and, indeed, I have since learnt that immense
fortunes are often made in such employments. As to my ballance,
I am not paid it to this day, of which more hereafter.
Our captain of the paquet had boasted much, before we sailed,
of the swiftness of his ship; unfortunately, when we came to sea,
she proved the dullest of ninety-six sail, to his no small mortification.
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