In the Revolutionary War George Washington was skillful in using unsuspected citizens or soldiers as spies on the British. He developed many methods with gave him success. But he didn’t always get away with it!

Nathan Hale has been considered America’s first spy. On his very first mission, however, he was discovered by the British. He was captured in possession of several important maps showing several British troop positions. He confessed and he was hanged at the end of a rope on September 22, 1776.

Hale is primarily remembered for his famous last words which were “I regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” He may never have said those words. But they have given him a heroes welcome in history.

A British officer, Frederick McKenzie, who was an eyewitness to Hale’s execution wrote in his diary that Hale actually said something to the effect that he though it to be the duty of every good officer to obey any order given him by his Commander in Chief. Not as memorable as the words credited to him, but probably closer to the truth.

We should gladly give him credit for his work as a spy, though unsuccessful, and credit him with the words: “I regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”