CHAPTER I

RED OR BLUE RIBBONS.

It was the fourth year of the captivity of New York, and the city, despite its military displays, could not conceal the desolation brought on by war. Trees were cut down, gardens destroyed, and churches turned into prisons. Yet, nature continued to bestow its beauty upon the city with sunshine, blue skies, and fragrant blossoms.

An old gentleman stood in front of a house on Queen Street, gazing at red roses. A sailor approached him, delivering a letter from his son.

The sailor, Captain De Vries, discussed his cargo and trade, emphasizing the necessity of commerce for survival. Elder Semple received the letter and agreed to inform De Vries's wife of his safe arrival.

Reflecting on the news he received, Elder Semple decided to read the letter before sharing it with his wife, pondering the likelihood of bad tidings. He considered seeking advice from his acquaintance, Alexander, at the King's Arms.

Entering the coffee-room at the King's Arms, he found his son Neil and Governor Robertson engaged in discussion. Neil welcomed his father, indicating a seriousness in the atmosphere. Governor Robertson courteously acknowledged Elder Semple's presence."How are you, Elder? It is a long time since I saw you."

"I am as well as can be expected, considering all things, Governor; but what for will I be 'Elder,' when I have nae kirk to serve?"

"Is that my fault, Elder?"

"You might have spoken a word for the reopening of the kirk, and the return of Dr. Rogers. Your affirmative would have gone a long way toward it. And the loyal Calvinists of New York have been too long kirkless. What for didn't you speak the word, Governor? What for?"

"Indeed, Elder, you know yourself that Dr. Rogers is a proved traitor. As a fundamental rule, a Calvinist is a democrat--exceptions, of course--like yourself and your worthy sons, but as a fundamental, natural democrats. There is the Church of England open for all services."

"Aye; and there is the Kirk o' Scotland closed for all services. What has the Kirk done against King George?"

"Must I remind you, Elder, that her ministers, almost without exception, are against the King? Did not this very Dr. Rogers pray in the pulpit for the success 

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