December 16th, 1775
Very cold this day. My company still confined to the Crepuscule sloop-of-war.
At noon, we were ordered to march out upon the quarterdeck to witness the execution of a traitor.
Our number being arrayed above-decks, and observing other companies of our Regiment similarly awaiting this deplorable demonstration, we were bade to remain silent for a space of minutes, until Peter was brought forth bound and blindfolded.
We could not hear what Captain Mackay read of him; the damp wind interfered with the oration. We could hear Peter beg as they fitted the rope to him, and I shall not soon forget the first cry as he was hauled up on the foresail yard. We were instructed to watch him while he kicked.
It was cold on the deck where we stood. Some minutes later, his corpse was lowered, trussed, and thrown into the river. This being done, we were permitted to once more go below.
Rumor reports that he was offered freedom by his master, Major Marshall, to lie regarding the weakness of the rebel force and to misrepresent their preparations to Lord Dunmore; though others speculate that he simply could not count. We know not what wrong he might have admitted to the Court-Martial that must have tried him. We know merely what disasters his mendacity occasioned. I believe he sold us.
As his body was lowered, the rebels on the quays who smoked and watched applauded.