Benedict Arnold | West Point

Lindsay Graham (0:00)

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American Scandal uses dramatizations that are based on true events. Some elements, including dialogue, might be invented, but everything is based on historical research.

It's the evening of April 6, 1780, at the home of General Benedict Arnold in Philadelphia. Arnold sits by the fire, its orange light flickering across his face. In his hand is an unopened letter. Its wax seal is stamped with the crest of the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George Washington. Arnold stares at the seal, but makes no move to break it. He already knows what the letter contains. It's George Washington's official reprimand following Arnold's court martial earlier this year. Arnold was found guilty of using government wagons for personal business and granting a permit without proper authority. Although cleared of the more serious charges, Arnold still regards the verdicts as a deep injustice.

The floorboards creak in the nursery overhead and footsteps descend the stairs. Arnold's wife Peggy joins him in the drawing room.

Well, he's asleep. Let's hope he finally gives us a good night's rest. Peggy spots the letter in her husband's hand. What's that? It's from Washington, my official reprimand. You haven't opened it? Arnold turns the letter over in his hands and Peggy gives him a sympathetic smile. Well, we shall do it together. Peggy sits beside him, then reaches over and gently slides her finger beneath the wax.

With the seal now broken, Arnold is finally able to reach in the envelope, unfold the letter, and hold it up to the light. His face hardens as he reads it. He calls my conduct reprehensible. And my use of government wagons was imprudent and improper.

Arnold crumples the paper in frustration and Peggy shakes her head. Well, this is how the Revolution remembers its heroes, for permits and wagons. Well, think no more of it. Come, burn it and be done with it. Peggy takes the letter from his hand and striates toward the fire. But as she does, another folded piece of paper slips to the rug. Arnold leans down and picks it up. Wait, Peggy. What is it? Another letter. It's a personal note from Washington. He falls silent as he reads and then begins to smile. Peggy frowns impatiently. Well, what does it say? See for yourself.

Arnold holds it out and she reads. Well, I don't understand. Isn't this just more of the same? I reprimand you. You should have been guarded and temperate. Read the very end. You mean this part? Exhibit anew those noble qualities which have placed you on the list of our most valued commanders. I will myself furnish you, as far as it may be in my power, with the opportunities for regaining the esteem of your country. Yeah, so he knows what's been done to me. Well, if he feels guilty, he should. He promises to make amends. Benedict, do not let a few words of flattery undo your resolve. Remember Saratoga, remember your leg, how they rewarded you for that. Oh, Peggy, I have not forgotten. Believe me, I'm reminded with every step I take. And why do you smile? Arnold takes the letter back from Peggy, carefully folds it back up, because I can use this. If Washington wishes to make amends, then I know exactly what I shall ask for.

Only moments earlier, the official reprimand had seemed like one final humiliating reminder of everything America had taken from Benedict Arnold. Now, though, it symbolizes something else, an opportunity. Washington says he's willing to entrust Arnold with another command. But if he grants Arnold's wish, he won't be rehabilitating a disgraced soldier. He'll be putting the future of the revolution in the hands of a man who's already working with the enemy.

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Lindsay Graham (4:51)

Hi, I'm Lindsay Graham, the host of American History Tellers. In our latest series, in 1892, as millions of hopeful immigrants arrive on American shores, the United States opens a new immigration station on Ellis Island. But over time, some will find that the gates to the American Dream are shut to them. Listen to American History Tellers on Audible or wherever you get your podcasts.