Publisher's Synopsis
"In Search of André & Arnold" is the second American Revolutionary War book by Franklin Alfred Kirby Edwards, historian and dealer of antiquarian manuscripts. It's follow-up to his highly successful 2017 book, "Diary of Agent 355: Mystery Lady of Washington's Culper Spy Ring." On its surface the new work is the fascinating story of Britain's famous spy John André and America's infamous traitor Benedict Arnold. Every detail of the historic treachery is revealed in this exhaustively researched work. Yet, in reality its pages also immerse readers in "the story behind the story." And it is a chilling tale of intrigue, mystery and murder, early 1800s style. In the dawn of the 19th Century indefatigable newsman Robert Wilson of New York sets out in search of the truth about Arnold's treason, which historians agree imperiled American independence and, if successful, would have crushed it. He talks to soldiers who fought in the war, some even walked André to the gallows, and uncovers secret letters of generals and politicians - names of Washington, Hamilton and Lafayette ring familiarly. Likewise, in this thrilling story, lesser-knowns Joshua Hett Smith, Benjamin Tallmadge, Peggy Shippen and Sergeant John Champe come to life, two hundred years after finding the grave. The deeper the newshound digs into the cloak-and-dagger saga of André and Arnold the more his own life is threatened by shadowy forces. They know that the captivating story he pieces together will surely tarnish stellar reputations, and worse, it could topple the young republic itself. Has a nascent "deep state" emerged? So, history buffs, you thought you knew the tale every schoolboy has been taught? Buckle up! Here is the gripping story of André and Arnold, and the chilling tale behind finally revealing it. A masterful follow-up to "Diary of Agent 355"! - Pilar Publishing of California.
