what was johnnys plan to get on the british ships

Johnny speaks to Mrs. Bessie. He explains that he needs Pumpkin's uniform to sneak in among the British troops and spy on their movements. He also asks if Aunt and Uncle Lorne can hide in the coachman’s house and pretend to be servants for the Lytes, so as to avoid getting arrested. Mrs. Bessie agrees, although she warns Johnny that he may be shot. As he leaves, he kisses Cilla goodbye and wonders what has happened to Rab and the kinder British officers.