“I was not aware that I called you by name, sir,” said he pointedly. “Not having a name to call me by,” said the lieutenant, “it would be a difficult thing to do. But, perhaps, if I gave you one, you’d be more civil.” He stooped and spoke a word or two in the ear of the peddler; and instantly the latter’s dogged look vanished. “Well, well!” exclaimed he in friendly fashion, “who’d have dreamed it! Who’d have dreamed it!” He struck the oaken settle a resounding blow with the heel of his hand. “We’re coming on, sir; we’re coming on mightily!” He beamed genially upon the young men, and seemed quite delighted; and just as he seemed upon the point of launching upon matters that George thought might prove most interesting, there came a clatter of hoofs from the road and the jingle of chains and[110] military equipment. The face lost its cheerful look as a voice gave an unintelligible, grumbled order; heavy feet tramped up the path and upon the porch; then the door was flung open and a party of armed men in the colonial buff and blue thronged into the room. [110] [111] CHAPTER VII TELLS HOW THREE PEOPLE MADE A DASH FOR FREEDOM The leader of the colonials was a tall man with wide, sloping shoulders and a harsh face. He had quick, eager eyes that snapped inquiringly and questioned everything upon which they rested. The Halting his men in the center of the public room, he surveyed its three occupants. “Your position and consequence, gentlemen?” said he. “And how is it that you are here to-night and not at your homes?” The peddler chuckled and cracked the great fingers of each hand. “A person of my station, sir,” he made answer, “is at home wherever night overtakes him. I am by occupation a peddler, selling honest stuffs and asking ready silver in exchange.” “Your name?” demanded the officer, and his eager eyes snapped more than ever. “Thomas Friend.” [112]Watching the officer’s face, George saw it change grimly at this answer; he made no remark, but turning to Herbert Camp, inquired:
Prev.
Back
Top