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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..40ab8c1 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #55832 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/55832) diff --git a/old/55832-h.zip b/old/55832-h.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 7b22c2f..0000000 --- a/old/55832-h.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/55832-h/55832-h.htm b/old/55832-h/55832-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 986c6f5..0000000 --- a/old/55832-h/55832-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,4107 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> -<head> -<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1" /> -<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Richard Judkins' Wooing, by T. Jenkins (Thornton Jenkins) Hains</title> - <style type="text/css"> - - p { margin-top: 0em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .75em; - } - - p.bold {text-align: center; font-weight: bold;} - p.bold2 {text-align: center; font-weight: bold; font-size: 150%;} - - h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { - text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ - clear: both; - } - h1 span, h2 span { display: block; text-align: center; } - #id1 { font-size: smaller } - - - hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; - } - - hr.smler { - width: 15%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 42.5%; - margin-right: 42.5%; - clear: both; - } - - body{margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; - } - - table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 5px; border-collapse: collapse; border: none; text-align: right;} - - .pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ - /* visibility: hidden; */ - position: absolute; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - text-indent: 0px; - } /* page numbers */ - - .center {text-align: center;} - .smaller {font-size: smaller;} - .smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - .mynote { background-color: #DDE; color: black; padding: .5em; margin-left: 20%; - margin-right: 20%; } /* colored box for notes at beginning of file */ - .space-above {margin-top: 3em;} - .left {text-align: left;} - - .poem {display: inline-block; text-align: left;} - .poem br {display: none;} - .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} - .poem div {margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} - .poem div.i5 {margin-left: 5em;} - - hr.full { width: 100%; - margin-top: 3em; - margin-bottom: 0em; - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto; - height: 4px; - border-width: 4px 0 0 0; /* remove all borders except the top one */ - border-style: solid; - border-color: #000000; - clear: both; } - </style> -</head> -<body> -<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Richard Judkins' Wooing, by T. Jenkins -(Thornton Jenkins) Hains</h1> -<p>This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States -and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no -restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it -under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this -eBook or online at <a -href="http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you are not -located in the United States, you'll have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this ebook.</p> -<p>Title: Richard Judkins' Wooing</p> -<p> A Tale of Virginia in the Revolution</p> -<p>Author: T. Jenkins (Thornton Jenkins) Hains</p> -<p>Release Date: October 28, 2017 [eBook #55832]</p> -<p>Language: English</p> -<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p> -<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING***</p> -<p> </p> -<h4>E-text prepared by Martin Pettit<br /> - and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br /> - (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br /> - from page images generously made available by<br /> - Internet Archive<br /> - (<a href="https://archive.org">https://archive.org</a>)</h4> -<p> </p> -<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10"> - <tr> - <td valign="top"> - Note: - </td> - <td> - Images of the original pages are available through - Internet Archive. See - <a href="https://archive.org/details/richardjudkinswoo00hainiala"> - https://archive.org/details/richardjudkinswoo00hainiala</a> - </td> - </tr> -</table> -<p> </p> -<hr class="full" /> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> - -<div class="center"><a name="cover.jpg" id="cover.jpg"></a><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="cover" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p> - -<h1>RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING</h1> - -<p class="bold space-above">A TALE OF</p> - -<p class="bold space-above">VIRGINIA IN THE REVOLUTION</p> - -<p class="bold space-above">BY</p> - -<p class="bold2">T. JENKINS HAINS</p> - -<p class="bold">(AUTHOR OF "CAPTAIN GORE," ETC.)</p> - -<p class="space-above"> </p> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/logo.jpg" alt="logo" /></div> - -<p class="bold space-above">F. TENNYSON NEELY<br />NEW YORK AND LONDON<br />1898</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright</span>, 1898.<br />BY<br />T. JENKINS HAINS.</p> - -<hr /> - -<h2><span>CONTENTS</span></h2> - -<table summary="CONTENTS"> - <tr> - <td></td> - <td><span class="smaller">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER I</td> - <td><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER II</td> - <td><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER III</td> - <td><a href="#Page_60">60</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER IV</td> - <td><a href="#Page_84">84</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER V</td> - <td><a href="#Page_103">103</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER VI</td> - <td><a href="#Page_120">120</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER VII</td> - <td><a href="#Page_137">137</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER VIII</td> - <td><a href="#Page_162">162</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER IX</td> - <td><a href="#Page_189">189</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER X</td> - <td><a href="#Page_214">214</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER XI</td> - <td><a href="#Page_246">246</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="left">CHAPTER XII</td> - <td><a href="#Page_255">255</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p> - -<p class="bold2">Richard Judkins' Wooing</p> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<h2>CHAPTER I</h2> - -<p>I was sitting in an arm chair with my feet upon the hand rail of the -verandah—very much at my ease—when Major Bullbeggor rode around the -bend of the turnpike and came into view.</p> - -<p>I watched him lazily and noted the action of his mare's hind feet as she -threw little jets of dust off to either side. The jets mingled together -and formed a yellow cloud in the rear, through which could be seen the -grinning teeth of Snake in the Grass,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span> the Major's nigger, who always -acted as his body-servant. Snake was mounted ungracefully upon an old -spavined clay bank, and he came loping along some three or four fathoms -behind his master.</p> - -<p>The sky was cloudless and the warm sunshine appeared to annoy the Major.</p> - -<p>I was so comfortable, sitting there with the buzzards soaring in silent -circles overhead and listening to the small birds singing in the -shrubbery on the lawn, that I had just made up my mind to hail the -horseman and ask him to accept the hospitalities of Judkins' Hall—and -all who have been anywhere in the state know the reputation of my -house—when the single-footing mare turned sharply from the main<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span> road -and came loping up the carriage drive toward me.</p> - -<p>I might as well tell you now, that the Judkinses were never of a nervous -or excitable temperament. Even the first Richard Judkins, Earl of -Belldon, and viscount Ansley, was noted for his cool and calculating -disposition. But if you think I am overstepping the bounds of courtesy -by dwelling too much upon the characteristics of my family, I will say -that I only do so for fear someone may hear this who is a stranger in -the colonies, and who might, therefore, get a wrong impression of the -manners bred in and taught to a Virginia gentleman.</p> - -<p>As I said before, I am not nervous; so I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> sat calmly watching the Major -and his servant until they halted within ten feet of the soles of my -shoes.</p> - -<p>"Good morning, Major!" I cried, "How are you to-day? Jump down and come -in!" And with that I took down my feet and rose to greet him.</p> - -<p>The Major's face seldom relaxed its grave expression, although he had a -sympathetic eye, but this day he looked more stern and military than -ever. His dress added to this effect, for he now appeared for the first -time in the uniform of Woodford's irregulars, with a long, straight -sword dangling from his broad belt.</p> - -<p>He stroked his pointed, tuft-like beard which hung from the end of his -chin, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> twirled his long, grey moustaches, while his eyes looked from -one object to another as if searching for something. Then he saluted, -saying, "Is there a Prince George county nigger about here, Mr. -Judkins?"</p> - -<p>Snake in the Grass bent forward in his saddle, and I noticed a thin, -rod-like contrivance rise from the back of his coat collar and lift off -his hat, replacing it again the instant he sat up straight.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, there is. Here, Sam!" I cried, and my boy stepped out from -behind a corner of the house and stood attention.</p> - -<p>"If there is," continued the Major, "he can hold my horse a few moments -while Snake, there, takes up my left stirrup a hole or two. It is an -outrage the way some<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span> saddles are built, and I'm certain this one will -be the death of me yet. It has already given me trouble in my left knee -joint."</p> - -<p>I gave a look at Sam who sprang to the Major's bridle—and I might say -here, that for an all-around good nigger, my boy Sam was hard to beat. -He stood six feet one inch on a pair of ham like feet and weighed two -hundred weight. He was a black, big-limbed, bullet-headed, broad-faced, -hog-nosed nigger of the pure Guinea breed, and he came from the best -stock in Prince George's—but that goes without saying, for the Major -would rather have seen his favorite mare struck with a whip than in care -of any other but a Prince George nigger.</p> - -<p>"Well, sir, how do you feel, and what is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> the news to-day?" I asked, as -I stepped down from the verandah and shook his hand when he had -dismounted.</p> - -<p>It was always the custom to ask Major Bullbeggor how he felt, for -although he was only fifty, or but little over twice my age, he always -appeared to be suffering very much.</p> - -<p>"I feel a little better than I did last week," he answered, "but I have -some pains shooting all through me, sir. Yes, sir, a pain, now and then, -a shooting all through me. I've been taking Miranda Jones' spring -medicine, but it don't seem to do me much good. I'm quite certain -there's a settling in my joints, coupled with a numbing of the nerves -and twitching of the scalp. Dr. <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span>McGuire bled me twice last week and -drenched me three times—but no matter, a soldier has no time to devote -to talking about his physical sufferings, even if they are unwarranted. -News I have, unless you have seen Roger Booker to speak to while he was -riding an express to the assembly at Richmond."</p> - -<p>"No!" I answered, "I've not seen Booker since last May, when he went -with you to help organize some of the colonial companies. But what has -happened? No more of that rioting and massacre like the affair of -Concord and Lexington, I hope?"</p> - -<p>The Major walked slowly up the steps and seated himself comfortably in -the arm-chair I had just occupied, and then waited patiently until I -drew up a chair and was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span> seated. I saw he had some important news, but, -of course, was not discourteous in my haste to find it out. The Major -had served through the entire French war with Colonel George Washington, -and was a man of the most pronounced military method in all things. It -would have been showing a gross disregard for his training had I even -suggested that he should hurry and tell me what was uppermost in his -mind, before he had thought carefully upon the proper manner and time -for doing so. For himself, he was most punctilious, at all times, in his -manner and address to gentlemen of his own rank and station. He was -sometimes truculent of speech, but he even went so far into the matter -of politeness and good <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span>breeding that when his trusty body servant, -Snake in the Grass—he always had a humorous way of naming his -people—forgot to bow properly and remove his hat on one or two -occasions, he had the rod-like contrivance rigged upon the slave's back -which lifted and replaced his hat as I have described. The idea that -Snake was a lazy, shiftless nigger, never entered the Major's head. -Snake may have been a good servant, but for my part, I've always stuck -to the old method of training one's people and have seen more than one -Prince George county nigger all the better for a little dressing with a -small hickory switch; especially when extenuating his circumstances.</p> - -<p>My cousin, Will Byrd, who was a few<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span> years my senior, came out of the -house on hearing us talking, and, after greeting the Major, had a small -table brought within easy reach. Upon this was placed a bottle of -brandy, some sugar, ice and sprigs of young mint.</p> - -<p>The Major sat there silently stroking his beard while Will mixed the -beverage, nor did he even offer my cousin a suggestion, knowing well the -mixture that had been famous in Judkins' Hall ever since the days my -grandfather and Lord George Fairfax honored its roof.</p> - -<p>But because we held our English ancestry dear, and observed their -customs, don't think that we were rank tories.</p> - -<p>Will and I had both been friends of Lord<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span> Dunmore, before he started his -aggressive policy, but since then we had had little to do with him. We -also held aloof from the too radical followers of Mr. Patrick Henry. -That is, from all except Major Bullbeggor. The Major had been my -father's friend, and since his death had always been a welcome visitor -at the Hall, even though he had helped to raise a company sent to -Boston, and had joined Colonel Woodford's militia.</p> - -<p>Berkley Harrison and Captain Barron were in the breakfast room talking -to my mother and sister. They had just finished lunch. Harrison was an -outspoken tory who lived upon the adjoining plantation, and who, though -only thirty years of age, was one of the richest planters on the James<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span> -river. My mother had a high regard for his many accomplishments, for he -had lived much in England, and had the bearing of a man who had seen -something of the life at His Majesty's court.</p> - -<p>Therefore Will and I were anxious to hear what important news the Major -had to tell before anyone else joined us, for we were afraid lest his -radical views should reach the ears of Mr. Harrison.</p> - -<p>When the Major put down his glass he looked at us, and it was strange to -note the effects of the liquor in the old soldier's face. Every line, -from the heavy creases about his square jaw to the fan-like wrinkles -that stretched away from the corners of his eyes, seemed to stand out -more clearly. His eyes<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> brightened and he spoke with great feeling—</p> - -<p>"Gage's men stormed the hill defenses at Boston last week, and carried -them by assault," he said.</p> - -<p>"The devil," said Will.</p> - -<p>"And then what happened?" I asked, jumping from my chair.</p> - -<p>"What could happen with a lot of yokels against regular troops, hey? -What could happen? But," he added, and his eyes fairly flashed, "our -boys made a fine stand, sir. Yes, sir, stood there on Bunker Hill 'till -the last dram of powder was burned, and the scoundrels were running in -and jabbing them with the bayonet. Yes, sir, by Gad, sir, they have the -making of the finest<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span> men in them that ever stood up to be killed."</p> - -<p>"I wish I had been there," said Will.</p> - -<p>"Wish thunder!" roared Bullbeggor, half rising from his chair. "What's -the use of wishing! Why don't you do something besides lying around here -and wishing. Holy thunder! If I was your age I would have been there in -the thick of it with our company of Prince George boys. Wish to -thunder!" And the old soldier reached for the bottle.</p> - -<p>"That is as may be," remarked Will, quietly, referring to the Major's -imaginary military movements.</p> - -<p>"Wish smoke and blazes!" growled the old fighter, putting down his empty -glass.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span> "If it wasn't for this settling in the bones and numbing of the -joints, and having pains shooting all through me, to say nothing of a -vertigris in the head when I stoop over, I'd have gone up there with the -boys. As it is, I'll do what I can against that rascal Dunmore,—and -stay here with Woodford <i>toe</i> do it."</p> - -<p>"But give us the details of the Boston fight," I urged.</p> - -<p>"That's all I know," he answered. "I met Booker riding an express to -Richmond, and he told me just what I've told you. I think you and Will -here would be welcome at Woodford's—if you don't want to go so far from -home—and he will give you enough fighting before the year is out. But<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> -isn't that Berk Harrison's voice I hear? He's hand and glove with -Phripps and Dunmore, and, perhaps, he would not care to hear my -sentiments on the affairs of the day."</p> - -<p>"Old Captain Barron is in there with him," said Will, motioning with his -hand toward the room. "It's nearly two, so they ought to be through -breakfast and be out in a few minutes."</p> - -<p>"There isn't a better soldier than old Barron alive, although he places -too much value in the small sword and pistol—two worthless weapons for -real fighting—Ah!"</p> - -<p>At this instance the figure of Berk Harrison appeared, issuing from the -window of the breakfast room, which being cut level<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> with the floor -within enabled anyone to walk out on the verandah. He was closely -followed by Captain Barron and my sister, Mary. Harrison was dressed -with his usual care, wearing a buff waistcoat and snowy ruffles. -Although he had slept in the Hall over night, he had not appeared in the -breakfast room until after I had finished my midday meal. He wore his -hair carefully queued, and his lean, smooth face, with its arched -eyebrows, aquiline nose, and thin, straight lips, bespoke the cynical -man of the world—and also of fierce passion.</p> - -<p>There was a hard glint in his eyes the instant they were directed toward -the Major, but the glance softened a little when he noticed me.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p><p>"Good morning, Major Bullbeggor," he said, advancing toward the old -soldier, who rose to greet him. "How are you, sir, this morning?"</p> - -<p>"Pretty well, thank you, sir; yes, sir, pretty well, considering a -little settling of the bones I probably got by riding too long -yesterday—Ah! Good morning, Miss Judkins." And then he shook hands with -my sister and Barron. The Captain and he had served together and were -old friends.</p> - -<p>"Always well and hearty, Barron, eh?" he cried.</p> - -<p>"You see, Miss Judkins, the difference time makes with men. Here's -Barron sitting around all the time with the ladies as young as he was -twenty years ago, and just<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span> look at me—a perfect wreck, yes, Miss, a -perfect wreck. I shouldn't wonder if he began to think of getting -married next—if he only had a pension, eh."</p> - -<p>"My face ought to be worth a thousand a year to any woman," laughed -Barron, drawing up a chair, while Mary stepped down from the verandah to -pet the Major's mare and have a word with his strangely attired nigger, -Snake in the Grass.</p> - -<p>"Your face, indeed, ought to be worth that, Barry," continued the Major, -smiling at him thoughtfully, "but it is a question that might admit of -some diversity of opinion among women, in comparing it to the relative -value of affections."</p> - -<p>"It is strange that women should put<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> such a value on such things as -affections," said Harrison, smiling at me, "but self esteem is to be -commended in the sex."</p> - -<p>Barron laughed heartily, as he always did when jokes were made at his -expense. He always laughed at, and took a light view of, everything, and -it was this that made him so popular with the young people, for he was, -physically, the ugliest man on the river. He refused to wear any hair -except his own, which consisted of two little red tufts just over his -ears. These latter stuck out from the sides of his head like a pair of -fans. His face was full, bronzed and rugged featured, and absolutely -hairless, and his mouth curled up at the corners in a perpetual smile. -His great, red nose was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> almost purple, and its color, he claimed, had -cost him much time and money to develop. He was short and stout, but -always wore the baggiest of brown homespun breeches.</p> - -<p>"Women are not the only persons who like comfort," said he, and the -Major, very thoughtfully, passed him the bottle.</p> - -<p>"No, no," he cried, motioning away the liquor, "I never drink at this -time of day, and very little now at all. Only a bracer or two when I -rise, then another before eating, along with two or three in the late -afternoon—and a couple before dinner—and—well, I'll take just one, if -you insist."</p> - -<p>"Its easy to see that Barron's heart lies in his stomach," said the -Major. "There's an old woman's saying that 'to win a man's esteem, you -must feed the brute.'"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span></p><p>"And, likewise, to win a woman's, 'dress the animal,'" laughed Barron.</p> - -<p>"But what was the news, Major, from Boston? I thought I overheard you -say something about a fight," asked Harrison.</p> - -<p>"He did," said Will. "Gage's men carried Bunker Hill by assault, last -week. But he says the Virginia boys fought well and gave the reddies all -they wanted."</p> - -<p>"They did that, and Woodford's men will give Dunmore about the same, if -he doesn't bear a hand and leave," interrupted the Major sententiously.</p> - -<p>"You don't say!" laughed Barron, raising his glass. "Well, here's to the -army of Virginia, and may it reap much benefit from the Major and his -combination of Christian men."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span></p><p>"And have reason to give thanks that they'll be in no worse condition -than that which they find themselves," muttered Harrison, putting down -his untouched glass. "They'll be damned lucky if they're not."</p> - -<p>"Oh, well, it is hardly necessary to be profane about it," said the -Major, quietly.</p> - -<p>Barron smacked his huge lips and smiled blandly, then murmured softly—</p> - -<div class="center"><div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<div>"And when they pawned and damned their souls</div> -<div>They were but prisoners on paroles."</div> -</div></div></div> - -<p>"An apt quotation," snapped Harrison ill-humoredly.</p> - -<p>"You don't look as if you were much given to poetry, especially -Butler's."</p> - -<p>"An angel is sometimes disguised as a devil," laughed Barron.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></p><p>"But never as a soldier," said Harrison, dryly.</p> - -<p>"Nor as a fop," growled Bullbeggor, "which the same might be said of -some people who dress to appear like gentlemen, but about whom there -might be some diversity of opinion among men." And he looked straight -before him.</p> - -<p>"Your wit is coarse, and if you mean that for me, I'll say you are -damned insolent," said Harrison with some energy.</p> - -<p>"Oh, hold on!" said Will.</p> - -<p>"The Major did not mean that for you," I said quietly, advancing toward -Harrison, who stood leaning against a pillar of the verandah. "He never -makes rude remarks to anyone," I continued, trying to pacify his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> rising -anger, "and he simply meant the <i>vice versa</i> of Barron's jest."</p> - -<p>"I don't overstep the rules of politeness very often," said the Major, -slowly, "but I don't believe in fitting all cases to a set of rules. It -is better sometimes to make a rule to fit a case, such as this, for -instance. If Mr. Harrison thinks I made the remark for the purpose of -comparing him to an angel, he is most unaccountably satisfied with his -personal appearance and certainly flatters himself, but if so, he is -welcome, and be damned to him. I'll give him whatever redress he wishes -at any time. Only I'd rather take it out of his friend, Dunmore, if—"</p> - -<p>"Hold on, Major! You forget yourself," cried Will, placing a hand on his -shoulder.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span></p><p>"I'll see that you make good your words to-morrow morning, old as you -are," said Harrison, now white to the lips with passion. And he walked -away and down the steps, meeting my sister Mary, who had just heard the -raised voices and had turned to see what had happened.</p> - -<p>"Why do you waste time talking to those old men," I heard her say as -they walked together down the path which led to the grove of live oaks -that separated the estates. But he appeared not to answer, so I knew -there was trouble ahead.</p> - -<p>"Harrison has horrible taste to get angry at such an old fellow as you," -laughed Barron. "Also a pretty clever opinion of his presence."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span></p><p>"I am old, Barry, sure enough, but I can't abide a man who lives in a -country as a gentleman and then fights against it. I've got these pains -shooting all through me and considerable twitching of the skull, but -I'll meet him, sir; yes, sir, I'll meet him to-morrow morning if I'm -alive. I offer you my humblest apology, Mr. Judkins, for being party to -a scene on your verandah, but you heard what he said in regard to -soldiers, sir; yes sir, you heard what he said." And the Major reached -for the bottle, while I entered the house to leave again by a side door -and follow Harrison to do what I could to pacify him.</p> - -<p>Will Byrd was living with us, so I felt sure he would keep Barron and -the Major in good humor until I came back.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span></p><p>Mary met me on the pathway leading to Harrison's. She had just left him -and was much upset at his temper.</p> - -<p>"I don't see why you have these old duffers come up here and make -trouble," she said. "Captain Barron is bad enough by himself, but when -that horrid old Major Bullbeggor and he get together, they just sit -around to drink and make trouble. It's only an hour's ride to his place -and I don't see why Sam can't help Snake take him home."</p> - -<p>"My dear sister," I said, "you know the traditions of Judkins' Hall. The -Major shall, therefore, always be a welcome visitor. He is a good -soldier, and the time will come—if it is not here already—when -<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span>Virginia will need just such men. We cannot put up with Dunmore's -violence any longer, and if Berk Harrison can't understand this the -sooner we see less of him, the better it will be for us all."</p> - -<p>"Good soldier! Huh!" she cried, with a pretty toss of her head. "If -Virginia depends on such men for soldiers, my lord Dunmore will soon -settle the disturbance. Good soldier, indeed! Why it was only last week -he and Captain Barron were sitting up drinking and telling their -abominable adventures, and they were anything but a soldier-like kind. -Poor Mrs. Bullbeggor overheard them and has threatened to get a divorce. -Snake said she had hysterics, and kept screaming that her husband was -fit for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span> nothing but paying bills. Good soldier, indeed!" And Mary went -into the house with an air of indignation that would have done credit to -a queen—or a Judkins.</p> - -<p>I went over to Harrison's, but on the way I couldn't help wondering if -this power to pay bills, which Mary held in such high disdain in the -Major, was not just a little attractive in young Harrison. Women have -strange methods of reasoning out the proper way to look at things.</p> - -<p>Harrison declined to see me, at first, but after I had sat out two -cigars on his verandah, he appeared.</p> - -<p>He refused to listen to any peaceful overtures that I advanced, and I -wasted all the afternoon and evening trying to settle <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span>matters without a -meeting. His friend Phripps dined with him and afterwards left with a -formal challenge to the Major, requesting a meeting at sunrise the next -morning. I left Harrison at about nine in the evening, after an -uncomfortable meal, with the feeling that trouble was in store for the -Major.</p> - -<p>On reaching the Hall, I found dinner over and the Major and Barron in -bed. The Major had requested Barron to act for him and had accepted the -challenge. They had settled upon a spot down on the river shore, and all -who know the James will remember how flat and smooth the shore is at -this bend.</p> - -<p>The fact that there was to be a meeting had been kept secret from my -mother and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> sister, for even Mary did not think the last words she had -overheard meant anything dangerous, but, in spite of this, it was easy -to see that the house servants suspected something was wrong.</p> - -<p>My mother gave me a lecture about the advisibility of taking her advice, -and also how to treat the Major. She really liked the old soldier, in -spite of his eccentricities, but wished, also, to avoid offending -Harrison. I forget now just what the advice was, but, as a matter of -course, had I taken it, all must have ended well, for time and again -afterwards have I heard her affirm this—so also has she in regard to -other matters.</p> - -<p>I walked out on the cool lawn under the bright stars, and then around -the house,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> hoping to find Will who had stepped over to the stables. I -met him as he was coming back and together we walked around behind the -slave quarters, discussing the affair of the Major's and also the gloomy -outlook of war in the colonies. The news of Bunker Hill had affected -both of us greatly. As we passed an angle of the house we heard voices.</p> - -<p>"Is yo' sho' nuff a Prince Gawge nigger?" said one.</p> - -<p>"Dat I is, honey, sho'; an' I's de nigger uf er Prince Gawge man," -answered the other.</p> - -<p>"Kin he stan' agin Marse Berk?"</p> - -<p>"Doan make no moan, honey, dere'll be bluddy murder an' suddin demise in -der mawnin'."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER II</h2> - -<p>Just before daybreak I was suddenly aroused by the violent movements of -the Major, who occupied a room next to mine.</p> - -<p>The bell-cord was pulled viciously for some moments, and this was -followed by hoarse exclamations.</p> - -<p>Finally someone answered the bell and knocked at the Major's door.</p> - -<p>A deep grunt followed and the door was partly opened.</p> - -<p>"Are yo' a Prince George nigger?" asked the Major, sleepily.</p> - -<p>"No sir!"</p> - -<p>"Then git out and send me one right away."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span></p><p>The door closed, a short period of silence followed, which was suddenly -broken by more violent pulls at the bell cord. Then I thought I -recognized Sam's footsteps sounding softly along the hall, and the door -opened again.</p> - -<p>"Are yo' a Prince George nigger?" grunted the Major.</p> - -<p>"I is sir," came Sam's answer.</p> - -<p>"Then for the Lord's sake take a look around and tell me where I am at."</p> - -<p>"You'se right heah, Major. Right heah, sah."</p> - -<p>"I thought so," said the Major with a satisfied sigh, and as the door -closed again a long drawn snore told plainly that he had relapsed into -peaceful sleep.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p><p>I was too much aroused, by this time, to sleep any more, so I lay awake -thinking of the possible dangerous outcome of the meeting that would -soon take place.</p> - -<p>Soon I heard footsteps again approaching along the corridor, and I was -then aware that Barron and Will Byrd were approaching the Major's room. -It was barely daylight, but I jumped up and dressed and made my way into -the room to join them.</p> - -<p>The Major was still undressed. He sat on the edge of the bed and -appeared so nervous that he could hardly put on his clothes.</p> - -<p>This amused Barron very much.</p> - -<p>"It's no use, Barry! you know the old saying about the dogs' hair being -good for his bite," said the Major, throwing down his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> clothes. "Gimme -some of the hair, and I'll see if this twitching of the bones and -numbing of the nerves don't hold off a bit. Lord! I didn't drink -anything last night to amount to anything. I was just a little tired out -riding over from Pendletons."</p> - -<p>Barron poured out a good, stiff drink of brandy, and the Major gulped it -down without winking.</p> - -<p>Then a most remarkable change came over the old fighter's grizzled -features. He jumped up, and in less time than it takes to tell of it, he -had his clothes on, and was just buckling on his sword belt, when Barron -stopped him.</p> - -<p>"Now, Bull, whoever heard of fighting a duel in such a rig," he cried. -"Take it off,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> man. Byrd has the tooth-picks for this work," and he -pointed to a couple of rapiers, wrapped carefully in cloth, that Will -carried under his arm.</p> - -<p>The Major looked from one to the other of us.</p> - -<p>"Fight a duel!" he cried in astonishment. "Who in the name of six sons -of Hayman is going to fight a duel?" and he forthwith strapped on his -sword-belt.</p> - -<p>Barron burst into a fit of laughter. "Never mind, come along with us. -But where on earth, Bull, did you think we were bound for at this hour -in the morning?"</p> - -<p>"Think!" roared Bullbeggor, "I know I'm going to ride to Williamsburg -and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span>report to Colonel Woodford. Think thunder."</p> - -<p>Will looked a little disgusted, but said nothing, and I led the way -softly down the corridor and out the back way without awakening my -mother or sister.</p> - -<p>The Major looked about him with blinking, sheeny eyes for his mare. Not -seeing her, he started for the stables, calling out lustily for Snake in -the Grass.</p> - -<p>Barron seized him by the arm and stopped him. "Bull," he cried laughing, -"you've made an appointment to meet Harrison, and he is waiting to get a -clip from you down on the shore. Don't make any more racket, but come -along before you wake up the household."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></p><p>I must say, I was somewhat disgusted with the Major's behavior, so I -spoke out, telling him he would have to meet his man.</p> - -<p>"Meet him!" he bawled, turning on me fiercely. "Of course I'll meet -him." Then he turned toward the stable. "Snake!" he cried, as his nigger -appeared, "Get the mare ready, for I'll be through in a few minutes. -Lead the way, Mr. Judkins. Meet the devil!"</p> - -<p>I then led the way down to the river bank, just as the rising sun tipped -the tree tops with golden light.</p> - -<p>The shore in the bend was very flat and sandy, being overhung partly -with great, sweeping willows. As we neared the spot fixed upon we were -aware of the presence<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span> of Harrison and Phripps. They were standing under -a large tree and appeared to be much absorbed in conversation.</p> - -<p>As we approached them they turned about, and Phripps advanced, holding a -pair of small swords in one hand and a case containing pistols in the -other.</p> - -<p>Will and the Major stood aside and Phripps, Barron and myself proceeded -to arrange the details of the meeting.</p> - -<p>It was decided to fight the affair with swords, until one or the other -of the combatants was completely disabled, and I must say that Phripps -was fair enough in the matter. He measured the weapons and gave Barron -the choice, after which he took the one left and started toward -Harrison,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span> who had strolled down on the river shore to where the sand -was hard and firm.</p> - -<p>I might say here, that I was not at all unfriendly toward Harrison, and -that I only took part in the affair after I had done everything in my -power to settle matters peaceably. It required nice discernment, in -those days, for a man to make up his mind whether he was a tory or not, -and it was more because I sympathized with the Major's political ideas, -than anything else, that I took any part in the matter at all. As it -was, I acted as I had acted several times before in such cases; that is, -as referee or judge, while Barron and Phripps were seconds to their -respective men. Will Byrd simply acted as a spectator. It was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> a perfect -spot for a meeting. The tall sweeping willows for a background on the -low bluff-like bank, and the water sparkling in the sunshine beyond the -shadow. The sand of the shore was firm and flat, and there was plenty of -room, as it was now nearly low water. I marked a spot and gave the -signal for the men to take their places.</p> - -<p>I introduced the Major to Phripps and bade Barron hand him his weapon -quickly to avoid unnecessary delay, for I knew his habits of inquiry.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Phripps, your mother was a Robinson, I believe, if I remember -correctly," said he, as Barron passed him the hilt and cast off his -sword belt.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p><p>"I never met her as a girl," snapped Phripps, impatiently.</p> - -<p>"The more honor to her," replied the Major, quietly, as he flashed out -his heavy broadsword. "No fear," he continued, as Phripps reached -hastily for the pistol case, "I'll attend to you some other time. I have -to do with Dunmore's heel dog first."</p> - -<p>I took up a pistol and cocked back the flint. "You know the penalty, -Major. Take your place and weapon," I said.</p> - -<p>He looked steadily at me for a moment, his eyes gleaming with a strange -light. Then he answered:</p> - -<p>"This is a weapon I've used for some years past, Mr. Judkins, and it is -the only one I will use in this quarrel. If no one<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span> cares to meet me my -mare is waiting to carry me to more important matters. Take the devil!" -he growled deeper, "I'll take the stiffening out of somebody."</p> - -<p>"Don't disturb him on my account," spoke Harrison. "Let him use his -weapon and talk less. I make no objection to it at all. I am ready." And -he took his position.</p> - -<p>I looked at Phripps, but he nodded approval; so I gave the word to -begin. I heard Barron laugh out some remark at the Major's expense, as -the men stood on guard for an instant. Then the fight began.</p> - -<p>As I said before, I had already seen some sword play and indifferent -marksmanship on that beach, but this affair was most uncommon.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span></p><p>The men were at it fiercely as the weapons fell across. Harrison, with -gleaming eyes and a sneer of contempt on his lips, thrust and lunged -past the broad blade of the Major's with cat like quickness. But to no -purpose. The Major, holding his heavy broadsword as lightly as a rapier -before him, with its scabbard held high in his left hand behind his back -to keep it from his knees, turned each attack by a slight, strong turn -of the wrist. His face was grave and calm, but as I watched him, the -gradual tightening of the muscles in his lean, bronzed jaws showed that -either the strain was beginning to tell on his wind, or else his temper -was rising rapidly. However, he refrained from attempting the stroke I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> -knew must soon be made, unless Harrison jabbed him.</p> - -<p>The morning was warm and soon the perspiration was pouring down the -faces of the men. Harrison eased up a moment to note his effect on the -Major, and seeing that he was keeping him in hand, pressed forward again -with vigor.</p> - -<p>Backward went the Major, giving ground slowly in a circle, while that -look of surprise I have seen on more than one man's face, when suddenly -confronted by grave danger, spread slowly over his streaming features.</p> - -<p>Harrison was getting white and waxy about the lips, and his breath came -in loud rasping gasps, but his eye was like the glint of steel as he -pressed fiercely on.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span></p><p>I have never seen a better swordsman. His wrist began to tire, but he -instantly passed his hilt to his left hand and then came on harder than -ever.</p> - -<p>I looked at Barron and saw the smile go from his face as the Major -circled backward past him. The old soldier's left hand was holding his -scabbard lower and lower, until finally he dropped it entirely. Then -Harrison saw his time had come for the finish.</p> - -<p>Quick as thought he passed his hilt to his right hand again, for the -final thrust through the Major's wavering guard.</p> - -<p>Then happened the most uncommon thing about the whole affair. It was -done so quickly my eyes could hardly follow it, although I was standing -but a few paces away and looking directly at the men.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span></p><p>As Harrison passed his hilt to his right hand, the Major's weapon fell -to the right of him with his foot still advanced, and as Harrison lunged -strongly, the Major's broadsword rose and fell with a wicked "swish."</p> - -<p>Harrison's sword passed neatly through the Major's shoulder and -protruded fully a foot behind him, while the old soldier's weapon struck -Harrison fairly on the head and stretched him limp on the sand. The -heavy blade had struck close to the hilt, as he had lunged forward, -otherwise it must have bitten in as deep as the eyes. As it was the blow -was bad enough, and we rushed in to see what could be done for him. It -was several minutes, however, before he opened his eyes and showed any -signs of life.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p><p>While we worked to stanch Harrison's wound and revive him, the Major -walked off a short distance and sat himself on the edge of the low, -bluff-like bank beneath a willow. He then carefully stripped off his new -uniform before Barron or Byrd thought of leaving Harrison to come to his -assistance, tied up the rapier thrust, and prepared to move along in the -direction of the Hall with his sword belt slung carelessly over his arm.</p> - -<p>When Harrison's wandering gaze met him his strength came back suddenly, -and it was all Barron and I could do to hold him in check. He insisted -that he should continue the engagement and Byrd's outspoken objections -only inflamed him the more.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span></p><p>The Major suddenly glanced back and saw what had happened, so he halted -while Phripps ran toward him.</p> - -<p>"The affair is not quite over, if you please, sir," said Phripps as he -approached.</p> - -<p>"Isn't, eh!" grunted Bullbeggor, drawing his sword and throwing the -scabbard aside. "Then if you can prove that your gentility consists in -something more than a love for horses and dogs—and women, you can get -your hand to some weapon." And with that he came quickly forward.</p> - -<p>"After Mr. Harrison has finished with you, we can go further into the -matter with some advantage," said the second, motioning with his hand -towards his principal.</p> - -<p>But Harrison's strength was unequal to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> the occasion. He no sooner stood -alone than he wavered, staggered, and then pitched forward on his face -in a dead faint. Phripps quickly ran to him and raised his head while I -poured some brandy between his lips.</p> - -<p>The Major stood silent and motionless before the group, his sword point -resting upon the toe of his boot and his hands crossed over the hilt. A -strangely grave and thoughtful expression shone on his rugged face, now -perfectly calm from the heat and excitement of the fray; and as I -watched him he appeared to me a poor duellist, and a man to whom self -was not the all important realization in life.</p> - -<p>I went toward him and held out my hand. He took it in an absent minded -way and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> turned at the sound of approaching footsteps behind him. I -looked over his shoulder just as Snake broke through the fringe of -willows, leading the Major's mare by the bridle.</p> - -<p>"I suppose he isn't hurt badly, Mr. Judkins," said Bullbeggor, looking -at his limp adversary. "But even if he is, I don't believe I can do much -for him. I thank you, sir, for your hospitality and fairness. I must go -along now, for I'm due at Williamsburg before night."</p> - -<p>"You certainly will come back to the Hall and let us fix you up a -little, Major. You certainly must feel a little shaken from that -puncture. It may be more dangerous than you believe," I said.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span></p><p>"Not at all, sir. Not at all. I have had Dr. McGuire bleed me twice as -much in the last month. I do feel a slight twitching of the bones and a -sort of dead feeling in the nerves, but besides a few pains shooting in -and out, I'm all right. Then there is Pendleton's tavern at the -cross-roads a mile beyond the bend, and you remember the old rake keeps -good bottled stuff. No fear, I'll be all right. But I will take a small -drink with you, Barron and Byrd, just to show there's no hard feeling."</p> - -<p>Harrison had begun to show signs of returning consciousness, so Barron -and Will left his side and came forward a pace or two. The flask was -passed around and then, in spite of Barron's protests to the contrary,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span> -the Major insisted on carrying out his plans as he had already intended. -He buckled on his sword belt and mounted his powerful mare, while Snake -plunged into the bushes and reappeared a moment later mounted and ready -to follow his master. His black face was showing in marked contrast to -the white gleam of his huge mouthful of teeth, and it was evident that -he had viewed the fight from some unseen point on the river shore and -was well pleased with the result.</p> - -<p>We raised Harrison and carried him in the direction of the Hall. In a -few minutes he revived and looked about him for the Major. Not seeing -him, he insisted on walking the remaining distance to the house on foot -and we finally allowed him to attempt it.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span></p><p>Just as we crossed the road, opposite the driveway, I saw Snake in the -distance turn sharply in his saddle as we came into view. Then, through -the dust cloud that almost instantly swallowed him up, I noticed his -head bend outwards and his white cap rise and fall in an ungraceful bow.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER III</h2> - -<p>The second day after this meeting we were at breakfast, sitting somewhat -stiffly at the table, when my boy Sam, whom Mary had just sent over to -Harrison's to find out how he did, brought a note in answer, saying that -he had almost entirely recovered and hoped to have the pleasure of -meeting her that morning. Barron and Will were still staying at the Hall -and we had all been somewhat reserved in manner in spite of the old -Captain's jests. Although there had been no serious outcome to the -affair, a meeting of that kind, no matter how common the occurrence, -always makes women a little distant and cold in manner<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> to the parties -concerned. This is possibly because a woman is somewhat more civilized -than man, and anything that savors of brutality or fierceness, always is -more revolting to her than to the less artificial being.</p> - -<p>I have said the occurrence of such affairs was common enough in the old -days, before the practice of putting grooves in pistols and making them -as accurate as rifles to a steady hand, became general. After that men -became more careful about abusing the code and getting into scrapes, for -the pistol has always been recognized as a weapon for gentlemen in -Virginia. But I must confess, however, that meetings have always been -numerous enough, and for the most trivial causes, on the soil of the -grand old commonwealth.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span></p><p>After Mary had read the note from Harrison she became much more civil -to Barron, and even my mother's stern dignity thawed a little under the -prospect of a renewal of social intercourse with the master of the -Harrison plantation.</p> - -<p>Mary was only nineteen, and although southern girls are women of that -age, she possessed a great deal of that childlike simplicity, which is, -or is not, so acceptable to the majority of men. For my part, however, I -have always been ungallant enough to believe that a woman affects much.</p> - -<p>Will had been devotion itself for two years past at Judkins' Hall, for -he lived only a few miles away near his family's old country seat at -Westover, and consequently<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span> found it quite easy to see the inmates of -the Hall several times a week even when living at home. He was my -favorite cousin, and it was almost painful to see his spirits as much -affected by my sister's as a barometer is by the weather.</p> - -<p>"Why don't you say something," she said to him, after reading the note -and watching the quiet, grave look on his face.</p> - -<p>"What shall I say?" he answered, smiling with her, "I'm here to talk to -you." And in truth he did appear to be always around for that purpose, -but never able to raise his voice to the occasion.</p> - -<p>"I don't know whether you are or not. I've been reading about a man who -carried on an affair simply by whistling. But even<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> that would hardly -apply to you after taking part in that duel. You certainly would hardly -care even to whistle to me, or you would not have gone with them. -Perhaps you are here to eat and fight."</p> - -<p>"You invited me to breakfast."</p> - -<p>"Yes, but that does not presuppose you are too hungry to speak. Perhaps -you think I asked you here to see you fight, and then satisfy your -hunger. You don't know why I asked you here. If you are here to talk to -me, do say something. Why did I ask you here to breakfast?"</p> - -<p>"Words are sometimes used to convey ideas," I suggested, trying to help -Will along, for I well knew how little women care for a man who can't -say something light and foolish at the right time.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p><p>"Or to conceal them," said Barron, breaking in with his old saw.</p> - -<p>"But where the ideas are vague and not quite well defined, what then?" -asked Mary, with a knowing look at her mother.</p> - -<p>"Then I don't see how they can be of any value, whatever, and I don't -see how I'll ever find out the true reason for my being here, though I'd -much like to know," said Will.</p> - -<p>"Quite right, Will," said my mother smiling, "I don't care for vague -ideas either—or to hear a man and woman in worthless gibble-gabble, -gibble-gabble. If there is a dearth of ideas, one reason is as good as -another."</p> - -<p>"I admire silence, also," laughed Barron,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> "for there is an old saying -in regard to its value. But at the same time, give me plenty of plans, -schemes and feasibilities."</p> - -<p>"I like the latter well enough myself," said Will, so dolefully that we -all were forced to smile, and my charming sister laughed outright, -saying—</p> - -<p>"Certainly Captain Barrow's conversation is not lacking of ideas, but -then he is a blunt man, and plain, so it is hardly to be expected that -he should conceal such scintillating wit"—</p> - -<p>"Blunt man,—and soldier, if you please," interrupted Barron, with -intense gravity, seeing his chance to heal the rupture between himself -and Mary.</p> - -<p>"I may add, 'and soldier,' when I see<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span> some evidence to justify it," -retorted my sister with a little energy. But Barron only laughed and we -finally adjourned to the verandah in a more civil mood than when we sat -down to breakfast.</p> - -<p>The air is delightful on the river at this time of year of which I -speak, and, as you probably well know, has a soothing effect on the -nerves, for it is not at all cool, nor is it hot enough to excite the -circulation.</p> - -<p>We sat there in the delicious, fragrant breeze for some minutes before -we were aware of the approach of Berkley Harrison, Phripps and Miss Rose -Carter, a cousin of Harrison's.</p> - -<p>Miss Carter had come over with her maid to nurse her cousin the moment -she had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span> heard that he was hurt, and as Harrison lived alone, except -when some one like Phripps was with him, a woman would have been a good -person to have had at hand, had he been injured badly, or had my mother -and sister not spent most of their time attending to his wants.</p> - -<p>I suppose I might as well say, before going further, that although I am -only a poor Virginia gentleman who has nothing but his—well, estate and -inheritance—I had some hope of raising myself to a position from which -I might allow my gentler passions to have some sway.</p> - -<p>You will understand what I mean when I tell you that for beauty of face -and figure, coupled with a grace beyond description,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span> Miss Carter -was—well, I will not tire you with details that are so well known. And -then, again, a woman's beauty depends entirely upon her attractiveness -to a man, and some men will see beauty in one way and some in another; -never all alike. Why, I have seen the niggers in the slave quarters let -Harrison's house servant, Angeline,—a yellow girl of remarkable -beauty,—pass by unnoticed and then, ten minutes later, be peeping and -spying at the blackest moke wench that ever left the Guinea coast.</p> - -<p>Harrison's greeting, this morning, was a trifle cool to Barron and -myself, and his appearance was not improved by the sinister look of his -shining black eyes. These were somewhat sunken in his pale cheeks and -had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span> dark crescents beneath them. His head was bandaged, but a skull cap -covered all signs of his wound. To Will Byrd and my sister he was most -gracious, and he even bent his wounded head to kiss the tips of my -mother's thin fingers.</p> - -<p>"You see," he said, after Miss Carter and Phripps had made their -greeting, "I took the opportunity to come over to tell you that Lord -Dunmore has sent word that he fears great trouble in the tide-water -districts, and that all the gentlemen of the province were making ready -to embark on his vessels and leave with their families until the -insurrection is more in hand."</p> - -<p>"And when will that be?" asked my mother in some alarm.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p><p>"Oh, only a few weeks, at the most," said Phripps, breaking into the -conversation.</p> - -<p>"Yes, about that time," continued Harrison, "but you know how fanatical -such men as Bullet and Bullbeggor are. It's really absurd how much -influence that beggar, Patrick Henry, has over such ignorant men. The -man has about as much logic in his discourse as a nigger has in his, but -he sways his followers any way he wishes, and is gaining recruits every -day. I suppose you know how illiterate the fellow is?"</p> - -<p>"And how rough and ill-bred," said Miss Carter.</p> - -<p>"An ill-favored rogue and no mistake," said Phripps.</p> - -<p>"Odious men—vulgar ruffians, all of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span> them," said Miss Carter and Mary -together.</p> - -<p>"So you say!" murmured Barron, pleasantly.</p> - -<p>"And their followers are a pack of unhung thieves," added Harrison -fiercely. "No house is safe while they roam the outlying counties"——</p> - -<p>"Mercy!" quietly interrupted my mother, who felt very kindly toward the -revolutionists, "One would actually suppose, Mr. Harrison, that you were -quite unfriendly with the whole party."</p> - -<p>And when she finished speaking I could see Harrison's eyes fairly blaze -with anger. He was very quiet, however, for some moments, and then -adding that it would be well to be packed and ready to embark with<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> Lord -Dunmore when he arrived, he turned to my sister and talked of other -matters.</p> - -<p>Barron waxed flippant and jolly while talking to Phripps, so when -everybody was in good humor I took the opportunity to ask Miss Carter to -help me hunt thistles—for my mother.</p> - -<p>We walked some distance through the fields, and found few thistles, but -among other matters discussed were certain characteristics of Mr. -Berkley Harrison.</p> - -<p>"The most accomplished and perfect gentleman in the province," said -Rose.</p> - -<p>"But, my dear Rose, he is so uncommon vain"—</p> - -<p>"By which, I suppose, you mean simply that he has a decent opinion of -himself,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> owing to his birth and position," she interrupted. "A man who -hasn't a proper opinion of himself, seldom has one of any of his friends -or acquaintances."</p> - -<p>"Quite true," I answered, "but"—</p> - -<p>"Do you really object to him so much?" she broke in. And as she smiled -and blushed slightly I followed the direction of her look and saw Mary -and Harrison standing together at the corner of the box-hedge of the -driveway.</p> - -<p>"You could hardly expect a gentleman of cousin Berk's antecedents to -agree with the absurd ideas of government you pretend to," she -continued.</p> - -<p>"The matter is possibly open to discussion," I answered a little -stiffly.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p><p>"Oh, no offence, my dear Dick. You know the laws of human nature as -well as I do. Those who are governed and have little are always -antagonistic to those who govern and have much, no matter how perfect -that government is."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I know," I answered, "there is no such thing as justice in this -world. Even the Bible, most holy of records, disclaims it, saying, that -those who have little shall have that little taken from them and given -to those who have much. At least that is what I make of it, but even if -there should be a small minority to govern and grind a large majority, -the majority should have its representatives to see that no unjust"—</p> - -<p>"Nonsense!" she interrupted, "Those<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span> who represented it would soon -acquire the same habits and tendency as the minority, without even the -leavening of high birth and education the minority already have. There -are some people born with high ideas who are intended by Providence to -govern always. They are superior in feeling—but hush! What is cousin -Berk doing?"</p> - -<p>We were now close to where Harrison and Mary were standing, and I -noticed that he peered cautiously over the hedge at some object that lay -on the other side in the sunshine. We turned the angle of the drive way -and as we did so I saw my boy, Sam, lying at full length upon the grass, -looking quietly up into Harrison's face with an expression of curious -interest showing upon his black features.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p><p>"Are you busy, Sam?" asked Harrison softly, not noticing my approach.</p> - -<p>"Yessah," replied Sam without moving.</p> - -<p>"Eh! What?" and I saw him grasp his cane firmly in his hand behind his -back.</p> - -<p>"Yessah," continued Sam, "I'se been lying here fo' quite a spell, sah, -listenin' to my heart beatin'."</p> - -<p>"So, so," said Harrison quietly, measuring his distance. Then he flashed -out—"You infernal, impudent nigger!" And he smote Sam a crack over the -head that brought him to his feet with a wicked look in his eyes.</p> - -<p>"Superior feeling!" I muttered angrily, and I saw Miss Carter blush. -Then stepping further out into view I caught Sam's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span> eye in time to avert -further trouble, for he had never been handled before by anyone—except, -perhaps, myself.</p> - -<p>"Go to the quarters, Sam," I cried, and as I did so I saw Harrison start -at the sound of my voice and notice me.</p> - -<p>I would have given something to have seen what Sam intended to do after -that look,—for he was a big, black, powerful, hog-nosed nigger, capable -of some little mischief—but the ladies being present, such intentions -were, of course, impossible. Sam obeyed me instantly and went quickly -toward the stables with his broad shoulders well squared and his head -up, and Harrison continued on his way with my charming sister upon his arm.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span></p><p>"I suppose," I said, looking askance at Miss Carter, "this is the -superior feeling of the governing class which we have just witnessed?"</p> - -<p>"What would that black boy have done?" she said, in alarm. "I saw the -look in his eyes that certainly meant more than disobedience."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Sam is a true and trained Christian," I answered, somewhat nettled -at the scene. "I taught him the doctrine of forbearance myself and I -have seen him practice it to some advantage."</p> - -<p>"And what was that?" asked Rose, sweetly, looking up at me with her -lovely violet eyes that still showed traces of her alarm.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p><p>"Well, the last overseer I had was a man of superior feeling who -belonged to the governing class—and he started to govern accordingly. -He smote Sam savagely upon the side of his bullet head, one day, and -knocked him down. Sam jumped up and rose to his full height, offering -the other side of his head without so much as a word. The fellow, John -Smith, struck him again, like a fool, and stretched Sam senseless for -half an hour."</p> - -<p>"And then?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, then Sam came to, and as soon as he could stand, he drew his corn -knife and it was all we could do to keep him from killing that overseer. -As it was, he got so badly cut that he would never come back again to -the Hall."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p><p>I saw Miss Carter pale slightly.</p> - -<p>"Are many of your people so brutal and blood-thirsty?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"Sam is neither one nor the other, but as good a boy as ever followed a -gentleman"—</p> - -<p>"For revenge, do you mean? If that is so, I think the sooner I tell -Berk—Mr. Harrison, the better."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Lord, no," I cried, "I mean as a servant. Even Major Bullbeggor -allows him the privilege of serving him, and you know how particular he -is. But why so anxious about Berk Harrison's welfare?"</p> - -<p>"I am his cousin," answered Miss Carter, stiffly.</p> - -<p>The tone of her voice was enough. But Heavens! A man must take his -strokes,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> mental or physical, without too much wincing. As for me, I -like the man who can meet them with a smile on his lips and talk in a -steady, natural voice while his heart stops beating and the iron grip of -sorrow holds his throat like a vice. The tone of Rose Carter's voice, -that day, told me something in regard to cousinly feeling. But no -matter. Our greatest sorrows are not nearly so heavy some years -afterwards and—</p> - -<p>As I said, I felt a sensation, similar I now believe, to that which a -few others have felt before. But a man in love is never a -philosopher—and he is generally hasty and selfish.</p> - -<p>"I congratulate you, my dear Rose, on<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> your relationship," I said -coldly, and the blood rushed through her face and left it whiter than -before.</p> - -<p>"Do you know, my dear Dick, you sometimes bore me most stupidly?" she -answered. And this commonplace incident ended.</p> - -<p>Commonplace it was indeed, but what it meant to certain affairs which -happened afterward, you may judge, if you care to listen. It is the -little commonplace affairs that influence the lives of most people, as -anyone may remember who cares to look at the past.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER IV</h2> - -<p>Dunmore failed to appear the next day, and Harrison came over to the -Hall and had the pleasure of the company of both Mary and his cousin to -beguile him.</p> - -<p>Will and I, accompanied by Barron, whom we persuaded to join us as a -sort of spirit raiser, took our fowling pieces, a pair of good dogs and -Sam, and sought distraction in the covers below the bend. It is -astonishing how sympathetic young men of good antecedents will become -under certain circumstances. I always liked my cousin Will, and it -seemed to me now that my sister was cruel, and he a much abused<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> friend, -since Miss Carter and I had had a sort of understanding between us. But -no matter, Will and I had always been drawn together, and our silent -companionship was very soothing and restful in spite of Barron's -incessant story telling and irrational humor.</p> - -<p>The old soldier had followed around all day without so much as firing -his piece, which he insisted on having Sam carry with the flints at full -cock—much to my boy's disgust. I had always taught Sam to be careful -with weapons, but Barron insisted on readiness above all things, and -would not allow the flints down. We had bagged several brace of fine -birds while he was engaged in other matters, and after seeing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> that Will -and I were having all the sport he wished to have his weapon ready but -still refused to carry it. Twice there had been premature explosions, -the last of which tore off the rim of the old soldier's hat, but, after -each discharge, he made Sam reload and proceeded on his way, tranquilly -spinning story after story in high good humor, and avoiding anything -that might ruffle the feelings of young men in—well, say in an uneasy, -or perhaps diseased state of mind.</p> - -<p>We tramped along all day, and late in the afternoon we were to the -eastward of the bend and making our way slowly through the heavy timber -towards the river in the lower reach. Will was slightly in advance<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span> of -the rest of us, and as he broke through the thick fringe of cover near -the river bank, he gave a sudden cry of astonishment and stopped. Sam -promptly caught the lock of Barron's gun in some undergrowth and -instantly exploded it, much to our annoyance, as it peppered my favorite -setter severely and sent him howling down the river shore with a dozen -or more small shot sunk deep in his hide.</p> - -<p>In a moment we cleared the pines, and the first thing that met our gaze -was the <i>Fowey</i>, frigate, close to the beach and standing up the river -with all her working canvas set and her guns run out ready for action. -Behind her came several smaller craft, apparently crowded with men and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> -guns. One glance at the ship told plainly who she was, and upon her high -poop strode a man fore and aft whom we had no difficulty in recognizing -as Lord Dunmore, His Majesty's Governor of Virginia.</p> - -<p>We were less than half a mile distant, but the shadow of the pines made -it much more difficult for those on board to see us, half concealed as -we were in the long grass and low bushes, than for us to see them. The -poor dog, however, howled dismally, and the report of the gun was -evidently mistaken for the discharge of a hostile rifle, for in a moment -a great cloud of white smoke burst from the frigate's broadside, and the -same instant the air seemed alive with grape-shot, while the jarring -report of a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> twenty pounder echoed along the shore. The balls tore with -a loud, ripping, rush through the pine tops and crashed through the -undergrowth. One of them striking the butt of Will's gun smashed it to -bits and knocked him endways into the woods.</p> - -<p>To say we were a little surprised at this reception would hardly -describe our feelings. I made a spring for cover and hugged a large tree -trunk as though a storm were breaking over me, and as I did so I heard -Sam give a yell and disappear as if the earth had swallowed him up.</p> - -<p>It was over in less time than it takes to tell of it, and I stepped out -to see Barron laughing heartily as he dragged Will to his feet.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span></p><p>"They do make a most valuable noise," he laughed, "but there's little -harm in them. The devil! You were lucky in not getting that into -you—mere chance though." And he picked up Will's shattered gun.</p> - -<p>"If that's the reception Dunmore is going to give us, I think we might -as well keep on to Williamsburg and join Mr. Henry's men," said Will, -looking somewhat disturbed in mind. "I never had a high opinion of his -lordship's manners, but this is going it a little too far. I wish I had -my rifle, I would see if he would do a little jumping at the crack of -it. Here, Sam! Give me the Captain's gun and I will load with ball and -have a try at him."</p> - -<p>"Is it over, Marse Dick?" asked Sam's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span> voice coolly from somewhere in -the thick bushes.</p> - -<p>"Come out, you black rascal!" cried Barron, and presently Sam emerged -from cover rapidly reloading Barron's weapon, at the same time keeping -an eye on the vessels as if expecting an attack.</p> - -<p>"Don't do anything foolish, Will," I said, as I saw his temper rising, -"It is a serious matter to fire on His Majesty's Governor. Besides, here -comes a boat from the first schooner to inquire into our affairs."</p> - -<p>While I spoke, the vessel close in the frigate's wake luffed sharply, -and as her headway slackened, a gig full of soldiers, pulled by four -stout niggers, shot away from her side and came rapidly towards us.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span></p><p>Then the vessel tacked ship and stood slowly in after the boat, her -head sheets slacked off to stop her headway and the black muzzle of a -long twelve pounder sticking half a fathom clear of her forecastle rail.</p> - -<p>We stood in a group on the sand and awaited developments, supposing, of -course, that as soon as we were recognized the vessel would proceed on -her course in the wake of the frigate.</p> - -<p>Dunmore we all knew quite well, for he had been several times to the -Hall and had often visited Will Byrd's cousin at the magnificent estate -at Westover.</p> - -<p>As the boat load of soldiers neared the shore the schooner luffed again -within easy hailing distance, and a man standing by the forecastle gun -hailed us.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span></p><p>"Throw down your arms, you dogs, or I'll blow you off the ground!" he -roared.</p> - -<p>"The devil!" exclaimed Barron, "I wonder if he means that for us? But -our dogs are not armed."</p> - -<p>"Bang!" went the long twelve pounder in a cloud of smoke, without -another moment's warning, and a shot whistled over the small boat and -struck the beach a few feet in front and to the right of us. A storm of -sand and gravel drove into our midst, staggering and blinding me so that -I fell against Will, who in turn fell to the ground, swearing furiously.</p> - -<p>A small particle had struck him with great violence in the eye, and in -his fury at this brutal onslaught he sprang to his feet,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span> grabbed my gun -from my hands, before I had recovered sufficiently to stop him, and -fired a load of small shot slap into the boat full of men just as its -keel touched the sand. A perfect roar of curses followed, as the -soldiers received the scattering charge. Then Barron seized Will, and -just as several men leaped ashore with their guns raised to shoot, all -three of us were struggling on the ground. Sam, left alone to face the -loaded muskets, dropped Barron's gun and instantly disappeared with a -couple of musket balls snipping through the brushwood after him. The -next instant we were surrounded by men and dragged to our feet, while a -short, but big-limbed Irish sergeant stood near and gave orders to his -crew not to bayonet us.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p><p>"Who are you, and where's the rest of you?" snapped a grizzled, -lean-faced officer, running up with his sword drawn and looking full at -Barron.</p> - -<p>"I am Jameson Barron, Esq., sir," said the Captain, smiling pleasantly, -"and as for the rest of me, I believe it is in Richmond. Dr. McGuire cut -it off the day after Braddock was killed and put it into a small flask -of alcohol." And he held up his left hand from which the last finger was -missing.</p> - -<p>"None of your jokes, sir," snapped the officer. "Where's the rest of -your party?"</p> - -<p>Barron looked about him.</p> - -<p>"Sam!" he called loudly. "Sam!"</p> - -<p>"I guess he's taken the track," he <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span>continued, quietly, "but must still -be within a mile of us. However, before we go too deeply into the case, -sir, you will oblige us greatly by stating your authority for firing -upon gentlemen who are in no way hostile to His Majesty."</p> - -<p>"Yes," I said, "I am Richard Judkins, of Judkins' Hall, sir, and am well -known to Lord Dunmore. By what right do you fire upon us while we are -simply out shooting for sport." Here I looked around for our bag and -ammunition flasks to prove the statement, if necessary; but Sam, who had -been carrying almost everything, had run into the bushes before dropping -his burdens, and they were out of sight.</p> - -<p>The ammunition left us was not of a <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span>character to corroborate my -statement to any degree of exactness. It consisted now of several musket -balls that Will had put in his pocket for use in case we had met larger -game.</p> - -<p>"Sport, eh!" snarled the officer, rubbing his shoulder where a shot had -penetrated the skin. "You'll see sport enough before we get through with -you. You may start on them, sergeant."</p> - -<p>He turned away abruptly on saying this, and, with half a dozen men -deployed as skirmishers, proceeded to examine the edges of the forest -for traces of a hidden foe.</p> - -<p>"So 'tis sport ye're afther, hey?" said the sergeant. "Give yourself no -oneasiness, ye'll see it fast enough. Rooney, me sowl,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> lay yer hand -tinderly on yer trigger, while I investigate the handsome old un, an' if -he so much as winks his ears, blow his tripes out, d'ye see?"</p> - -<p>Barron made no further comment, except to inquire of private Rooney what -particular part of his anatomy held the "tripes" alluded to by the -sergeant.</p> - -<p>"Hold yer tongue, ye handsome old man," said that officer. "My sowl, but -ye have a dacent figure av a soldier, despite the years av yer cocoanut. -Fancy him, boys, squinting wan av thim oies av his at a leddy," and he -ended with a hoarse chuckle, while he carefully went through Barron's -pockets.</p> - -<p>We were each examined in turn, but nothing of a hostile nature was -discovered,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span> except Will's half dozen bullets. These, with our tobacco -and snuff boxes, were carefully tied up in a handkerchief and carried by -the sergeant to the boat. Our guns were also appropriated.</p> - -<p>The officer in charge returned presently from his search along the -shore, and having found nothing in the shape of a foe, he ordered all -hands into the boat.</p> - -<p>I protested with some energy against this high handed proceeding, but -was instantly seized by several soldiers while another stuck his bayonet -point half an inch into my back. Will was treated in the same manner, -and Barron, knowing resistance to be useless, set us the example by -walking quickly to the boat and climbing aboard.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> In a few minutes we -were on our way to the schooner.</p> - -<p>As we drew near, I noticed the vessel's peculiar rig. She appeared light -in the water, with long overhang fore and aft, and her masts raked -backwards to the last degree. Her spars were long and tapering, and new, -while her bulwarks appeared to have been built up to the height of a -frigate's, showing that she was evidently some fast vessel altered and -fitted up for the work Dunmore had planned on the river. Four ports cut -in her broadsides held the black muzzles of her battery of light -twelves, while on the forecastle was the pivot gun of heavier metal, -which had been discharged at us a few minutes before. Men swarmed<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span> on -her main deck and about her battery, while small knots stood with the -sheets in hand ready for further orders.</p> - -<p>The man who had hailed us from the forecastle, and had fired without -further warning, now stood at the starboard gangway, where a hanging -companionway trailed in the water. He wore a shabby uniform, such as I -had seen some of Dunmore's officers wear when doing their so-called -patrol duty on the river. He was short and stout, with a red face, his -shifty, fishy eyes looking like two little gray dots on either side of a -nose that much resembled a boil.</p> - -<p>As we drew alongside he bawled out orders, the men hauled flat the head -sheets, and instantly the schooner began to forge<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span> ahead. Some one threw -a line and a man in the boat caught it, making her fast at the -companionway, up which the officer in charge of us scrambled to the main -deck. We were quickly sent aboard, followed by the boat's crew, and were -lined up in the gangway between a file of soldiers, while the small boat -was dropped astern to tow in the vessel's wake.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER V</h2> - -<p>We were slightly bewildered at the rapidity and novelty of the events -which were happening, and for some moments I stood and gazed at the -hurrying men, who appeared to obey a man with a shrill whistle whose -notes rose and fell with long undulations. No misunderstanding seemed -possible, for each note appeared to mean an order, which sounded high -above the rattle of the vessel's gear. I was something of a yachtsman, -and took great interest until aware of the presence of the stout man -with the red nose. He was in command of the schooner, and he now stood -before us, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span>gazing at us as if we were wild animals of an unknown kind. -Two or three younger men in the group that gathered about us appeared to -be officers, but I had never met any of them before, so they joined -their captain in his curious gaze. Finally the Captain spoke.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Rose," he said, in a thick, raucous voice, "are these the men who -fired on us?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," replied our thin faced captor, holding the handkerchief -containing our valuables in one hand, while he saluted with the other.</p> - -<p>"Then what d'ye mean by bringing them aboard this vessel, sir?" he -roared. "Haven't I told you, sir, to shoot every rebel caught with arms -on him? Hey! <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span>Answer me that, sir! Answer, or I'll break you sir!"</p> - -<p>"They claim to be gentlemen, Captain Cahill," said our captor, meekly.</p> - -<p>"Blast you! Do you mean to disobey me, sir? Answer my question, sir, or -by breechins and blackskin I'll break you sir!" roared the captain.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir; yes, sir, you did," answered the lieutenant, quickly. "You -gave me orders to shoot every rebel caught in arms, who refused to -surrender. But these men claim to be gentlemen and not rebels. This -one," and he pointed to me, "claims to be a friend of Lord Dunmore's."</p> - -<p>"Claims!" roared the Captain, getting almost purple in the face, and it -really<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span> appeared as if he were going off in a fit. "Claims!" And then he -simply drew in breath for a moment to gather power to express himself. -Here was an opportunity, I thought, so I broke in—</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," I said, "I am well known to Lord Dunmore, and also to nearly -every gentleman on the river. I am Richard Judkins, of Judkins' Hall, -and I"—</p> - -<p>"Shut up!" he roared. "Don't you speak to me sir. If you do I'll cut you -down where you stand." And he drew his sword. "You may be Richard -Perkins, of Perkins' Hell, or any other hell, but if Lord Dunmore knows -you he knows an unhung scoundrel. Don't glare at me, sir; don't glare at -me that way, or I'll cut you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> down where you stand," and he advanced a -step towards me.</p> - -<p>"I am a Virginia gentleman, sir, and I demand to be treated as such," I -said.</p> - -<p>"You are a liar and a villain," he roared, "and I will treat you as -such," and with that he made a pass at my head that would certainly have -finished me, had I not jumped suddenly backwards into the arms of a -soldier behind me. At the same instant Will Byrd sprang forward to ward -off the blow.</p> - -<p>He caught the skipper's sword arm with his right hand and instantly -dealt him a powerful blow just under the ear with his left. It sent the -man to the deck as limp as a rag, with his sword clattering after<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> him. -The next instant Will was seized and thrown down and a line quickly -passed around him, lashing his arms to his sides. Then Barron and I were -served likewise.</p> - -<p>The Captain lay on the deck as if dead, so in a few moments he was -picked up and carried below to be nursed back to consciousness. In the -mean time the schooner had been standing up the river under all sail, -with the breeze abeam, and was rapidly nearing the frigate that was -sailing under easy canvas to allow her to catch up and report the news -of the affair on the shore.</p> - -<p>"Carry the prisoners below in the fore-hold," ordered Mr. Rose, who was -now in command, and we were quickly carried<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span> down through the forehatch -into a dark, ill-smelling hole filled with bunks and all sorts of ship -junk, and there we were left with a couple of men to guard us.</p> - -<p>I stretched myself comfortably on a coil of rope and awaited -developments, thinking, of course, that the instant Dunmore heard our -names we would be released.</p> - -<p>"It's no use, we are in for it," said Barron, smiling, "I only hope we -will catch up with the frigate before Captain Cahill recovers from that -tap. Very neatly done, Will, most remarkable—if it had been a trifle -further forward though it would have made a pretty mess of -things—Hello! What's that?"</p> - -<p>We were on the weather side of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> schooner, and she was heeling over -and going through the water at a great rate. The rush of the waves was -quite loud and continuous against the vessel's side, but above the noise -I could hear a hail from somewhere in the distance to windward. Then -came an answer from the schooner's deck—</p> - -<p>"Three men!" bawled Mr. Rose from somewhere above us. Then came another -hail.</p> - -<p>"Don't know," bawled the Lieutenant in reply. "One named Perkins, of -Perkins' hole."</p> - -<p>Then came another pause followed by another hail.</p> - -<p>"Two young—one old, with a face like<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span> the breech of a brass -carronnade—all alive and well—no one hurt."</p> - -<p>A pause.</p> - -<p>"Didn't suppose you knew them"—</p> - -<p>Another pause.</p> - -<p>"Will not hurt them, sir"—</p> - -<p>Then came a pause, followed by a hail I could just distinguish as the -vessels neared each other.</p> - -<p>"Keep them until his lordship has time to look into the matter," said -the voice faintly in the distance.</p> - -<p>"Aye, aye, sir," bawled Mr. Rose.</p> - -<p>"Hold on," I cried desperately, "tell him who we are and let us go -ashore. This outrage has gone far enough"—</p> - -<p>"Kape quiet, ye gentleman, or I'll be for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span> jabbing yez with me baynit," -growled private Rooney, and he held the point against my ribs.</p> - -<p>"It's no use," said Barron, smiling pleasantly, "we are in for some -sport. It's a wonder, though, that his lordship didn't recognize me from -that lieutenant's description"—</p> - -<p>"Ef yez opin that ugly mug agin, afore the lootinant comes below, I'll -cut off yer elephant years and jam them into it," said the soldier, -Rooney. And then we kept quiet while the schooner drove steadily along -up the river. Sometimes she tacked around the bends and sometimes she -flew along with the wind fair, but before dark we knew by the sound of -the rushing water, that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span> could be distinctly heard through her sides, -she had traveled many miles, and we were a long way from Judkins' Hall.</p> - -<p>Just before coming to an anchor for the night the forecastle pivot-gun -was fired at some hostile object, and there appeared to be some -excitement on deck, but this soon subsided. Then the anchor chain roared -through the hawse pipe and the sound of rushing water ceased. Men began -to swarm below, and it was evident that the schooner had made her run -for the day, and that unless Lord Dunmore interested himself quickly in -our behalf we would spend the night uncomfortably.</p> - -<p>It was late in the evening when the sergeant who had captured us came -below. He<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span> made his way to where we lay through the crowd of sailors and -soldiers who were sitting about talking and eating their evening meal, -and looking at us.</p> - -<p>"Th' Captin wishes to say a few whurds t' th' gentilman what stretched -him out this day on th' main deck," he observed to the men guarding us. -"'Twas a good stroke, sure, but the Captin av th' <i>Hound</i> keel-hauled -two men, just lately, for trying to excite dishorder on th' beach, so it -must be a hanging th' owld man is afther to-night. Bring thim right -along wid ye, me sons."</p> - -<p>Then he made his way on deck and we followed after him with a soldier at -each elbow.</p> - -<p>We went quickly aft, and just as I turned<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> to go down the cabin -companionway I looked astern and saw the dark loom of the frigate's hull -through the darkness. Then we filed below into the Captain's cabin. At -the head of the cabin table sat Captain Cahill, and in front of him -stood a flask of spirits. On either side, within easy reach, lay a -pistol with the flint cocked back over the priming, and behind the -Captain's chair stood Mr. Rose and two other officers. The Captain -looked little the worse for the blow Will had given him, but his eyes -shone fierce and green as a tiger's, as they met my cousin's look.</p> - -<p>"Captain Cahill," said I, "for I believe that's your name, you will do -yourself a favor if you set us ashore instantly. This outrage, sir, has -gone far enough."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span></p><p>He turned his fierce little shifty eyes to me, but took no other notice -of my words. He sat there, silent and grim, and slowly filled his glass -from the bottle in front of him. Then he drank off the contents. As he -drained the last drops with his head held backward, his eyes met mine -squarely and his fury burned within him. He bit savagely through the -glass tumbler and ground the splintered fragments between his teeth, and -then spat them from his bleeding lips. Then he hurled the remainder of -the tumbler to the deck with a crash, and sat there silently glaring -like some fiend from hell. Finally he spoke.</p> - -<p>"It is now nearly nine o'clock," he said slowly. "When three bells -strike I shall<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span> drop all three of you overboard, and you shall have -three twelve pound shot—one apiece—along with you. Lord Dunmore -requests that you shall not be hurt. You will see, Mr. Rose," he went -on, turning to his lieutenant, "that no violence is done these -gentlemen. Do you understand, sir? Simply lower them carefully over the -side with a shot fast to the right foot of each, and see that their -hands are tied to prevent them from hurting any one. You may take them -forward, sergeant."</p> - -<p>We were on our way forward again and just on the point of entering the -forehatch, when the sound of oars, working in oarlocks with a -man-of-war's sweep, fell on our ears. The sergeant stopped and looked -over the vessel's side.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p><p>"It's the Guvnor's boat," said one of the soldiers. "'E's comin' to pay -his respects to the skipper, an 'e'll find 'im in a fine state for -argyment."</p> - -<p>"'Pon me sowl, it is," said the sergeant.</p> - -<p>"Pete, you an' Rooney, here, take the folks below while I see to his -ludship."</p> - -<p>Before we reached the hatchway the boat was alongside and an officer -climbed quickly on deck, where he was met by the sergeant.</p> - -<p>"The Governor sends his compliments to Captain Cahill, and wishes him to -send the prisoners he took to-day to the frigate for examination," said -the officer, and as he spoke I recognized him as Captain Foy's -under-lieutenant whom I had met several times before at Harrison's -house.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p><p>I called to him before anyone could stop me, and the next instant we -were shaking hands before the astonished soldiers.</p> - -<p>"You have come in good time, Mr. Jones," I said, "and for Heaven's sake -get us clear of this vessel and its lunatic skipper."</p> - -<p>He laughed heartily as the sergeant came up and saluted. "This way, if -ye plase," said that soldier, and he led him aft.</p> - -<p>A few minutes later the sergeant came forward, accompanied by Mr. Jones -of the <i>Fowey</i>, frigate, and we were ushered over the side just as the -lookout, forward, struck off three bells.</p> - -<p>"'Twas a narrer escape, me son," whispered the sergeant to Will as he -went over the side. The next minute we were on our way to the frigate.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER VI</h2> - -<p>"It's all very well for your lordship to laugh," said Will, an hour -later, after we had been served with an excellent meal, washed down by -delicious wine, at the Governor's cabin table, "but had you been busy -with other matters to-night, we would have been comfortably buoyed in -the mud at the bottom of the river."</p> - -<p>"He is an uncommon rascal, that Cahill," laughed Dunmore, "but, my dear -Byrd, you should not take arms against His Majesty's Governor, even in -fun. Ha! ha! It would have been droll, 'pon my word, ha! ha! May the -Lord roast me if it would not<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> have been a joke to have seen you three -gentlemen buoyed in this most muddy stream. It is a revelation, Byrd, a -revelation, sir, from Providence. A sign of the times and an omen for -you to take advantage of without delay. It is an insight into the future -and should hurry you to take up arms in His Majesty's just cause. Think -of it, if it had not been for his Majesty, the King—as represented by -myself—you would have been at the bottom of the river to-night to -remain there, perhaps, through all eternity; for I take it that the -angel Gabriel would have to blow a mighty blast to lift you out of this -most sticky Virginia soil."</p> - -<p>"But if it hadn't been for His Majesty,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> the King, as represented by -that truculent skipper on the schooner over there, we might now be -dining in the charming company of Miss Judkins and Miss Carter, to say -nothing of the mistress of Judkins Hall," said Barron, smiling at -Dunmore with a beaming face.</p> - -<p>"And have lost the honor of dining with his excellency, the Governor," I -put in hurriedly, for I thought I perceived an uncomfortable look gather -on his lordship's countenance. The two officers present, Captains Foy -and Graham, also began to look a trifle annoyed.</p> - -<p>"But where are we, anyhow, Lord Dunmore?" asked Will. "Your excellency -has rescued us, true enough, and made the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> matter all the better by -adding this splendid dinner, but whereabouts on the river are we?"</p> - -<p>"As near as I can judge, we are about twenty miles above Westover. Hey! -Captain Foy? Isn't that about the reckoning?" replied Dunmore. "And if -we have good luck and little fighting, we shall be through our business -in this part of the river and on our way down stream before this time -to-morrow evening. There is very little to do after all. Graham, here, -and Fordyce of the <i>Hound</i> had some little difficulty yesterday with a -small party of rebels, but they were all shot or dispersed except the -leaders, who were keel-hauled by Captain Fordyce. He and Cahill are very -able men<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> in their line of work and their vessels are well adapted for -these inland waters. But it is a very malodorous business and the sooner -we get clear of these unhealthy swamp vapors, and get a sniff of salt -air, the better. I hope, Foy, you will see that plenty of sulphur is -burned aboard to-night."</p> - -<p>"Can we be landed to-night?" I asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Will, "can we get ashore? They will expect us at the Hall -and will be much troubled if we don't get back before bedtime."</p> - -<p>"I don't see how it can be done, do you Foy?" said Dunmore. "We had an -exchange of shots with the shore, as you may have noticed from the -schooner, just before <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span>coming to anchor, and I would hardly think it -wise to send a boat in there at this time of night. You wouldn't care to -land there this evening, would you, Graham?"</p> - -<p>"No, your excellency, it would hardly be safe," replied that officer.</p> - -<p>"Besides," continued Dunmore, "Fordyce stopped at Harrison's to take him -and his party aboard the <i>Hound</i>, and from Fordyce's description of your -affair on the beach with Cahill's men, they will probably be satisfied -that you are in safe keeping for the night. Harrison was in a hurry to -get to Norfolk, as he expected to sail for England soon,—so his note -said—and I gave Fordyce orders to end his patrol there and start back -immediately. He will go down on the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span>morning tide and meet us below in a -day or two. Cahill, and some of those small craft astern of us can -finish up the work here and above us."</p> - -<p>"Then we shall have to spend the night aboard?" I inquired.</p> - -<p>"I am sorry to force my hospitality upon you, gentlemen," said Dunmore, -"but I see no other way out of it. Anyhow, I take it for granted you -would have joined us to-morrow, in the interest of the King, so the -hardships will not be so very great. However, if you would rather go -back aboard the <i>Black Eagle</i> and spend the evening with Captain Cahill, -you may do so. Shall I call away the boat?" And as he said this his eyes -twinkled with some little amusement.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span></p><p>"Give yourself no more trouble on my account, your excellency," said -Barron, "I am, as you know, an old soldier and have no relatives to -speak of. I find myself just as much at home in a strange bed, be it -ever so comfortable, as in any other."</p> - -<p>"Not a bad idea, Captain," answered Dunmore, "not a bad idea, sir; but -before we think of turning in, Captain Foy and Graham here would not be -adverse to opening a bottle or two more with you. Steward! You may clear -the table and bring some of that stuff captured yesterday. It may strike -you as strange, gentlemen," he continued, "but that beggar who lives -near Jamestown keeps most remarkable liquor. May the Lord pickle me, if -it isn't equal to any I have ever tasted at home."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span></p><p>"And a most remarkable man he was, too," put in Captain Foy.</p> - -<p>"He did show more or less nerve of a peculiar order," said Graham.</p> - -<p>"How was that?" asked Will.</p> - -<p>"Well, you see," said Captain Graham, "we went ashore on the island to -reconnoitre, as we had heard of the large gathering at Williamsburg. The -first thing that greeted us on landing was a couple of rifle shots. -These appeared to come from the bushes near Jacquelin's house, and one -of them struck poor Billings in the pit of the stomach and passed -through him, poor fellow. We finally made a landing a little farther up -stream, where there was more cover, and the first thing we encountered<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> -on getting ashore was a motely crowd of farmers, armed and ready to -fight us. There was one fellow, I believe they called him 'Bullet,' who -is a fierce rebel, and another mounted on a powerful bay mare, who rode -with his left arm in a sling and had a strangely attired negro servant -to carry a couple of rifles for him. These were the only dangerous men -in the crowd, for the rest had no organization and appeared to obey no -commander, so they quickly broke and fled at the first fire. Four of -them remained, however, and these two I have just described were the -ones who cut their way through our men with their swords and escaped. -The other two were captured, for they refused either to run or cease -fighting.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> One was Jacquelin, who owns the house, and the other a man -named Horn. Fordyce was coming up just then and I turned them over to -him. He tried to get some information about Mr. Henry's mob out of both -of them. Jacquelin had his fingers punched with a belt punch without so -much as saying a word, and the fellow, Horn, was seated on a hot stove -until the breeches and skin were burnt off his buttocks, but all he did -during that time was to curse His Majesty most heartily. Fordyce started -to keel-haul him, and had the line made fast to his hands passed under -the schooner's bottom, but somehow the line fouled just as he was drawn -under the bilge, and by the time they cleared it and pulled him<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span> aboard -again he was as dead as a mackerel. After Jacquelin had his turn, he -offered to lead us to Williamsburg, or anywhere else we wished to go, -and the beggar told a yarn about some good wine in his cellar the men -had failed to find. We stopped at his house again, and four of us went -with him to find the stuff. He did have a door we had overlooked and he -showed it to us. The cellar was full of this stuff you see before you, -and while we stood at the entrance admiring the flasks the rascal shoved -all four suddenly inside the door and banged it to and locked it. Then -he started across the island like a scared rabbit. That's the last -anyone saw of him, for, as usual in such cases, by the time the men -heard us and saw what had happened,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> he was too far off to hit and there -wasn't a man there who shot within a fathom of him."</p> - -<p>"That must have been a very interesting affair," said Will, somewhat -coldly, "but if you are through I would like to go to bed. I am a little -fatigued from the day's excitement. No thanks! I do not care for any -more wine. I hope your excellency will excuse me." And he rose from his chair.</p> - -<p>Lord Dunmore looked sharply at Byrd, and appeared a trifle annoyed, but -he said nothing.</p> - -<p>It was easy to see that Will's sentiments were not exactly in accord -with our hosts, and that a strained relationship would exist between -them if something were not done<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> quickly. It was evident that Lord -Dunmore expected us to accompany him as loyal subjects on the morrow, -and I knew it would need some keen acting on our part to enable us to -avoid giving up our residence at the Hall and becoming refugees for an -indefinite period. My heart was anything but light when I thought of -Harrison,—with the ruffian Fordyce to back him,—having things his own -way down the river. But as I only thought of Berk as a misguided -gentleman, a little over-zealous in his duty to the King, the only -trouble I anticipated was some obstacle I felt he would place in our way -when he found we wished to remain at home. At all events, I knew I must -not antagonize Dunmore, or he would fail to put us ashore<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span> the next day -as we hoped he would. Therefore I reached for poor Jacquelin's wine and -drank his excellency's health, and Barron needed no urging to follow my -example.</p> - -<p>Will remained standing until I explained that he was suffering from the -shock of the discharge from Cahill's pivot-gun, whereupon the Governor -was much amused and laughed immoderately as I described how the ball -covered us with sand and gravel. Then we finished the bottle, and after -bidding his excellency good night, the steward ushered us into the -officers' cabin where a state-room had been made ready for us.</p> - -<p>As soon as we were left alone, Will burst forth into a perfect torrent -of abuse against Dunmore and his underlings. Barron and I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span> tried to stop -him lest some one should hear the noise, but it was only after he had -called them every villainous name he could think of that he at last -consented to keep quiet. As for myself, I have said before that the -Judkins family were not of a nervous or excitable disposition, and are -not carried away by wild and insane thoughts of mistaken patriotism, but -I had decided that evening that the King would soon have another enemy -of my acquaintance. By the present state of the feelings of both Barron -and Byrd, I thought it highly probable that there would be several more.</p> - -<p>Will finally turned in and I did likewise, for we were very tired. -Barron sat a long time apparently lost in thought, holding his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> -half-removed boot in his hands. Then he spoke.</p> - -<p>"Poor Horn," he muttered, "I owed him for two gallons of gin." And then -he undressed and turned in without another word.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER VII</h2> - -<p>The next morning the frigate was under way before we were up, but as the -water appeared shoal at the end of the reach, she was anchored to await -high tide, for the river is very narrow here and dangerous for a large -vessel to turn about in. When we arose and came on deck a little later, -we had the pleasure of seeing our friends, or rather enemies, of -yesterday, pass close under the frigate's stern; and as they did so -Barron leaned over the rail and saluted Captain Cahill very pleasantly -and wished him a safe and happy voyage.</p> - -<p>We stood on the <i>Fowey's</i> high poop and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span> watched the swift little -schooner pass up the river and disappear around the bend above us. Soon -afterwards we heard the rattle of musket firing, followed by the heavy, -deep boom of her pivot-gun. After the reverberating echoes died away -along the wooded shores, all was silent. The sun broke through the river -mist and shone warmly on the muddy water, and the day promised to be -bright and quiet. The two small craft that followed the schooner now -took in their sails and put out their oars, and their niggers pulled to -a lusty chorus.</p> - -<p>Dunmore was up early. He was evidently annoyed at having to spend so -much time on the river, for he came on deck in quite bad humor. He -greeted us rather stiffly, and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> then turned to Captain Graham who had -also just made his appearance.</p> - -<p>"What is that firing about?" demanded the Governor in no uncertain tone.</p> - -<p>"I don't know, your excellency," replied Graham.</p> - -<p>"Captain Graham," said the Governor, "you will please tell me just what -you know, sir, quickly. It won't take a minute, sir, or else write it -down on a slip of paper. Send Mr. Johnson to me, sir!"</p> - -<p>The Captain went forward on the poop, and a moment afterward a young -officer appeared coming aft. He saluted the Governor and stood -attention.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Johnson, it is your watch on deck, sir. What was that going about -on board the <i>Black Eagle</i>?" inquired Dunmore.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span></p><p>"I d-d-do not k-k-know,—your"—</p> - -<p>"Call the Corporal of the guard, sir. Don't stand there and stammer at -me, sir," cried the Governor, interrupting him and waxing furious.</p> - -<p>The poor lieutenant retreated to the break of the poop, closely followed -by his master, but he was too excited to speak plainly.</p> - -<p>"Corp'ral g-g-g'ard! Corp'ral g-g-g'ard!" he cried weakly, but there was -no response from the main deck.</p> - -<p>"What are you doing, sir!" thundered Dunmore as he came up behind him.</p> - -<p>"Trying t-t-to c-c-call the Corporal of the g-g-g'ard, your"—</p> - -<p>"For God's sake, Mr. Johnson call somebody. Call somebody, sir, quick," -cried his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span> lordship, walking to and fro across the deck and wringing his -hands. Then, as he came to where the Lieutenant stood, he could stand it -no longer and waxed into a frenzy.</p> - -<p>"Do something! Call somebody! Do something for God's sake! Do something -Mr. Johnson, or get off this ship," he cried. And the young officer, -showing him self to be a man more fitted for action than words, dashed -down the companion ladder and dragged the corporal he wished for up -again by the collar of his coat.</p> - -<p>Then, after much swearing and questioning, the Governor heard that -Captain Cahill had fired upon a small hut, just visible beyond the bend -of the river. I tell these events that happened on board the <i>Fowey</i>,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span> -frigate, to give an idea of the Governor's temper, and also because -every incident of that time stands out clearly before me. Mr. Jones, the -young officer who took us off the <i>Black Eagle</i> was very pleasant to us, -and warned us against the tempers of Captain Foy and the Governor, after -which he kept out of our way, and we saw him no more to speak to while -we were aboard the ship. He was a promising young man and I hoped to -have him help us get ashore, but he evidently thought it best not to be -intimate with neutrals.</p> - -<p>After breakfast his lordship was in better spirits, and these were more -improved later in the morning upon the arrival of a small boat which -carried Mr. Robinson, a noted<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span> tory, and several of his family to the -frigate. Mrs. Robinson was a woman of fine presence, and her daughter -might have been said to have been beautiful, judging from the standard -of those days, but she was no longer young and her lack of success in -the matrimonial field appeared to have soured her temper. These people -were made comfortable in the officer's cabin and were very outspoken in -their opinions regarding Mr. Patrick Henry.</p> - -<p>When the tide turned in the afternoon and began to run a strong ebb, the -frigate was gotten under way, and, with her working canvas set, headed -down stream. The wind was so light that, in spite of the most careful -steering, she was run on a mud bank<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> before going much over a mile. -Captain Foy, however, was equal to the occasion. He soon had a kedge out -and before the falling tide left her fast he warped the ship back again -into the channel. Bad luck did not desert us here, for the frigate had -hardly gathered way again before she piled heavily upon a sand bar and -all attempts to pull her off proved useless. It was then decided to -await the next high water.</p> - -<p>The day passed stupidly enough in spite of the presence of Miss Robinson -on board. We were all anxious to get down river and Lord Dunmore was now -in such a bad humor that he refused flatly, and with some energy, our -request to have a small boat put us ashore, so we could walk the twenty -miles or more across country to Judkins' Hall.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span></p><p>But we were not the only ones to suffer from his lordship's temper. Mr. -Johnson, the young navigating lieutenant, came in for his share also.</p> - -<p>He was standing on the edge, or break, of the poop, after the frigate -had run hard and fast aground, and was much upset in his mind, although -the accident was unavoidable.</p> - -<p>A little imp of a powder-monkey boy thought to take advantage of a -moment when his back was turned, to imitate his defect in speech and -make faces at him for the benefit of the ship's company. The officer, -however, turned and caught him in the act.</p> - -<p>"Damn you, sir! Come to the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span>m-m-mast!" he bawled, and Lord Dunmore, -hearing the noise, came forward to see what was the matter, and take a -hand in the disturbance if occasion demanded it.</p> - -<p>"What has he done?" asked the Governor, as the boy came aft crying with -fear.</p> - -<p>"Nothin'," snuffled the little rascal, speaking before anyone could stop -him. "'E just sez, 'Dam you, sir, come to the mast,' an' I comes."</p> - -<p>"Did you swear at this boy for nothing?" demanded the Governor.</p> - -<p>"No, your excellency," said Mr. Johnson. "I said d-d-damn y-y-you, sir, -c-c-come here, because he"—</p> - -<p>"That will do!" thundered the Governor. "Go to your quarters in arrest, -sir. I won't<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span> have you swearing at my men for nothing. Go, sir!" And -after this affair we gave his excellency a wide berth for the rest of -the day.</p> - -<p>The next morning the tide floated us clear, and we got under way just as -the <i>Black Eagle</i> came around the bend above us. She soon caught up with -the frigate and we learned that she had a dozen or more prominent tories -aboard who wished to take refuge with the royal Governor.</p> - -<p>We stopped twice on the way down the river, once to take aboard a tory -named Thornton, who lived on a large plantation on the south side, and -once we stayed an hour or more on a mud flat.</p> - -<p>It was nearly sundown before the white<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span> pillars of Judkins Hall showed -through the fringe of willows on the river bank. The red light of the -setting sun flooded the south portico and a pane of glass in a window, -catching a ray at an angle, burned like a bright eye for an instant as -we drifted past.</p> - -<p>Dunmore reluctantly consented to send us ashore in a boat with Mr. -Johnson and a guard of soldiers to see if anyone remained at the Hall, -and if so, to help carry what luggage there was to be sent aboard the -frigate. My slaves could follow us in the small craft. As the boat drew -near the beach, where only a few days before Bullbeggor had won his -strange victory over Harrison, we looked for some signs of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span>welcome from -our people. Not a leaf stirred in the calm of the bend, and not a sound -from the shore broke the ominous stillness of that warm, clear evening. -None of us spoke and even Barron's face appeared grave with some thought -of impending evil. The sun shone on the sweating faces of the rowers, -and the regular clank of their oars in the row-locks beat time to my -heart throbs as I waited to learn what was wrong.</p> - -<p>When the boat's keel struck the sand, we sprang quickly ashore and -proceeded rapidly by the river path toward the Hall. On entering the -fringe of bushes and undergrowth on the river bank I thought I heard a -strange noise close by me to the right. We stopped a moment and -listened, but the four<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> men and Mr. Johnson, who were following close -behind us, came up, and we started on again toward the Hall.</p> - -<p>All of a sudden I heard a faint cry.</p> - -<p>"Marse Dick!" it said feebly, and the voice came from the direction I -had first heard the noise. Barron, Byrd and myself heard the cry -simultaneously, and we instantly started toward the spot from whence it -came. The next minute we broke through a thicket of blackberry bushes, -and found a small cleared spot in the midst of the grass and briars.</p> - -<p>There, lying upon his back, with his left hand held over a nasty cut in -his abdomen, was my boy, Sam. The poor fellow saw me and I caught his -glad look of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span>recognition, but his glance wandered back of me to Mr. -Johnson and his men, and his look turned to one of savage fury. He -started to rise, but I quickly held him in my arms while the rest -crowded around us.</p> - -<p>"What's happened?" I gasped. "Where is mother and Mary—and Miss -Carter?"</p> - -<p>"Miss Mary, she gone wid Marse Berk—all alone—old missus and Miss Rose -gone away, too," said the poor fellow, with great difficulty.</p> - -<p>I looked at Will and saw him turn ashy pale and his jaws set until the -bands of muscle in his lean face seemed about to break with the strain.</p> - -<p>"What rascal do you suppose did this?" asked Mr. Johnson, coming up -closer and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> noticing the look on Will's face. But no one answered.</p> - -<p>"Who gave you that cut, Sam?" I asked, bending over him and gently -removing his hand from the gash. "Get some water, quick!" I continued to -the men, but Barron had already started for the boat, where he found a -bailer, and returned in a moment with it full of water. In a few moments -Sam felt better, and I immediately set to work to dress his wound. "Who -cut you?" I asked again, for I saw he hesitated about telling me. I soon -had a bandage in place, and then I repeated the question.</p> - -<p>"Marse Berk," he finally whispered, and as he did so Will leaned over -him to catch the words. "He an' that Captain were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> here—Marse Berk—he -wanted Miss Mary to go off alone with him on the schooner—an' he took -her—she wanted to wait for old missus an' she cried—I came—so he -killed me."</p> - -<p>"But mother and Miss Carter, Sam, quick; where are they?" I asked, -frantically.</p> - -<p>"Dunno, Marse Dick. I'se been here sence yesterday—I ain't seen no -one—they all must be gone somewheres, too."</p> - -<p>"Carry him to the Hall," I said to the soldiers, and then Will and I -started on a run towards the house. On reaching the front door we found -it shut fast, but Will burst the fastening of a window on the verandah -and sprang into the dining room, and I followed at his heels. I bawled -out<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> my mother's name, and Will cried out for my sister, but our voices -echoed through an empty house. There was not even a slave there.</p> - -<p>We quickly went through the rooms upstairs, and then through the -pantries and kitchens in the rear, without finding a single house -servant. Then we started for the slave quarters to see if anyone had -remained there, but not even a single pickaninny was in sight. -Everywhere there were traces of hurried preparations for departure. -Clothes were scattered about the floors, and in the servants' dining -room the evening meal lay untouched upon the table. We went outside and -looked about the court, and then went to the stables. We had only<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> been -through the empty stalls on the lower floor, when we saw two of my -niggers coming on a run through the field to the northward. They had -seen us and had come from hiding places, and in a few minutes they were -with us and seizing our hands, thanking us for coming back again. Then -Mr. Johnson came up with his men, carrying Sam on a litter made of their -crossed muskets, and Barron showed them the way to a couch in the slave -quarters.</p> - -<p>My two field hands, who were telling me what had happened, were ready to -run at the sight of the soldiers, but I bade them be still and tell -their story.</p> - -<p>They told how the schooner, <i>Hound</i>, had anchored just off Harrison's -plantation, the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> evening we were captured by Captain Cahill, and how -Berkley Harrison had come over to the Hall with Captain Fordyce and a -file of soldiers. Then all hands had gotten drunk, in spite of my -mothers' presence, and Harrison had insisted on my family and Miss -Carter accompanying him to Norfolk on the vessel. My mother had -remonstrated at this high handed business, but Harrison stormed and -threatened, and vowed he could not keep the soldiers from looting and -burning the Hall if they were not all on board and ready to sail within -an hour. My sister took him outside to try and get him into a more -reasonable mood, and that was the last anyone on the plantation, except -Sam, saw of her.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span></p><p>After waiting half an hour, my mother and Miss Carter became alarmed at -her absence, and also at the actions of the soldiers, who began to fire -their muskets at random. Upon looking for their Captain, they found him -sitting on the verandah with a bottle of spirits on a table before him -and much the worse for what he had already drank. He informed my mother -roughly that Harrison and my sister had embarked aboard the <i>Hound</i>, -which would sail within the hour. He then rose from the table and -insulted Miss Carter, after which he staggered down to the shore and was -carried aboard his vessel, leaving the Hall at the mercy of his men. -These rascals broke into the women's side of the slave quarters and such -a scene of riot<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> followed that my poor mother and Miss Rose fled across -the fields for their lives. They reached Harrison's place and had the -frightened slaves, who were preparing to follow their master, harness a -horse for them. Then they drove with all speed for Pendleton's Inn at -the cross-roads several miles to the eastward. Here they were made -comfortable and were now awaiting news of our whereabouts. As the men -finished their story, Barron reappeared with the Lieutenant, and I -repeated some of the details. Then I turned to the officer.</p> - -<p>"You may give the Governor my compliments," I said, in a dry, rasping -tone that seemed to stick in my throat, "and tell him that I am sorry -not to be able to accompany<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> him to Norfolk this evening. I shall, -however, hope to meet him and his party quite soon, and will make all -haste after I see affairs attended to here. Mr. Byrd, and, perhaps, Mr. -Barron, will go with you," and I gave Will a look that made him nod -assent.</p> - -<p>"I am v-very s-s-sorry, sir," stammered Mr. Johnson, "but the Governor's -orders were positive. They were that all of you should return with me to -the <i>Fowey</i>."</p> - -<p>"Indeed?" asked Will, blandly.</p> - -<p>"And of course you will carry out the Governor's orders?" asked Barron, -smiling pleasantly.</p> - -<p>"At any cost, sir," replied Mr. Johnson.</p> - -<p>"So you say," remarked Barron, still smiling.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p><p>"So I'll do," replied Mr. Johnson coloring a little at Barron's remark. -"If you doubt me, sir, try me," and he looked about him for his men who -now came straggling up.</p> - -<p>"No offence, sir," put in Barron, quickly. "I merely repeated a remark -said to have been made quite often in the society at court—a remark -expressing doubt in the mind of the person making it, without reflecting -in any manner upon the sincerity of the person telling of the supposed -event."</p> - -<p>"At any rate, you certainly will allow us time to collect my people and -attend to my scattered property. Also, you will allow us to make what -necessary changes in our personal attire we see fit?" I asked.</p> - -<p>"Certainly, sir," replied the officer, "the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> frigate will anchor for the -night in the broad reach a few miles below the bend, and you shall have -plenty of time, not only to pack your effects, but to send for whatever -relatives you wish to accompany you. The men, meanwhile, can collect -your slaves and send them on ahead of us."</p> - -<p>"We shall make our preparations," I answered shortly, and then I led the -way into the Hall.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER VIII</h2> - -<p>My first care was for my boy Sam, and after he had been properly cared -for, he was carried aboard the small boat and made comfortable.</p> - -<p>While we were changing our clothes, Will and I had a chance to discuss -matters privately and decide what had best be done.</p> - -<p>Knowing my sister's fondness for Berkley Harrison, I conceived the idea -very readily that she had consented to go with him and marry him at the -first convenient opportunity. Will declared that he would soon hear this -consent expressed from her own lips, and that he would feel more -relieved<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> after hearing it. God alone knows what the poor fellow's -thoughts were, and what hope still lingered within his breast. As for -myself, my duty appeared now to lay first with my poor mother—and Miss -Carter. My sister was off with the man she apparently loved, and nothing -worse could happen to her than what had already occurred. I believed -Harrison to be a gentleman and honorable in his dealings, although I did -not agree with him in his political ideas and views.</p> - -<p>Barron decided, positively, to accompany me and openly hinted that -Williamsburg was the place he hoped to reach as soon as he helped me -straighten out matters at the Hall.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></p><p>"I will join you there also, as soon as I find my services are not -needed at Norfolk," said Will.</p> - -<p>"Then we will leave you here with Mr. Johnson," I said. "As soon as he -gets tired of waiting for Barron and myself, you can go with him and -join Dunmore, and meet us later with the forces under Colonel Henry."</p> - -<p>While we were discussing our affairs, we were changing our shooting -clothes for more suitable garments, and we were quite alone.</p> - -<p>I took two silver mounted, Paris made pistols from a case, and concealed -them carefully by sticking them in my belt under my outer coat. I may -say here that these weapons were remarkable for their fine <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span>finish, and -were the same I had used on one or two well known occasions before. They -were the ones from which I had fired six bullets in succession, one day, -upon the edge of a knife blade set twenty paces distant, and they could -be relied upon. They had the advantage over most, for they exploded -almost instantly from the flash of the flint.</p> - -<p>After seeing to these, Barron and I then buckled on our swords; mine a -fragile rapier which had formerly been part of the dress of a man of -fashion, and his a more serviceable weapon, but still very light for -field use.</p> - -<p>"You will certainly allow me the privilege of escorting my own mother," -I said to the Lieutenant, when we had finished our preparations and had -come down stairs.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p><p>"Where is she?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"At Pendleton's Inn, a few miles back in the country," I answered. "But, -as I understand we are not exactly prisoners, you will have no objection -to my going to her, and telling her of the arrival of his excellency, -the Governor."</p> - -<p>"Not only that, but you may take two men with you. There may be some of -Mr. Henry's bush-fighters who might not be to your way of thinking, and -who might dispute the way with you. Carry your sword if you wish. Is -Captain Barron to accompany you? He may do so if you wish it, for, of -course, I have your word that you will not stay any longer than -necessary or go anywhere my men cannot go also without<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> making trouble." -Saying this he beckoned two stout soldiers aside and gave them some -orders I did not quite hear.</p> - -<p>I said nothing in reply to his remark about not staying, or leading his -men into hostilities, for I wished to gain time, and I led the way -quickly to the stables where saddles and bridles were procured.</p> - -<p>The horses were at large, but in sight, grazing quietly in the pasture -to the eastward of the quarters. My two field hands soon had four of -them ready. Giving a nod to Barron, I leaped into the saddle, and he -instantly followed my example. The soldiers started to mount in a more -leisurely manner.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Johnson," I said, turning quickly,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span> "I have not given my word as to -not leaving you and your men. Mark that, sir. Therefore I bid you -farewell."</p> - -<p>The next instant I was loping gracefully down the carriage drive with -that peculiar ease which you may have, perhaps, noticed as belonging to -a Virginia country gentleman.</p> - -<p>Barron's knee was rubbing against mine with each rise and fall, and the -old soldier was smiling happily at the scenery lit up by the last rays -of the setting sun.</p> - -<p>I half expected to hear a warning bullet, and turned my head with my -chin to my shoulder to see what was taking place behind.</p> - -<p>Mr. Johnson waved his sword nervously<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> and shouted out something I could -not understand, and then the two soldiers came galloping after us.</p> - -<p>"We better avoid their company, for they are rough looking men," said -Barron. "A soldier is good enough when properly commanded, but most -unpleasant when in command. As for me, I intend to command some as soon -as I can join the Major and the rest at Williamsburg."</p> - -<p>"We must shake clear of these men before we get to the Inn," I said. "It -would never do to have a dispute there before the ladies, although the -advantage would lie with us. Suppose we slack up at the turn a mile -above here and tell these fellows to go back. Perhaps Will will find<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> -himself kept pretty close when Dunmore knows we are not exactly in -sympathy with the king."</p> - -<p>"He will have tact enough to keep out of limbo, but I reckon Dunmore -will try to make him take up arms against us," said Barron. "You spoke -of a bend in the road; is that it ahead there?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, but suppose these fools show fight?" I asked.</p> - -<p>"That little side ornament of yours will do little good in that case, -but I reckon I can hold them both in play. There was a time, if I -remember rightly, when I knew something about the use of a sword—even a -light one like this I have with me. When Braddock was down in the swamps -I was a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> fair hand at pinning frogs. I reckon there isn't anything much -better to eat than the reptile's legs, but I tired of them after the -boys got me to eat the half raw legs of a skunk, by mistake, in the way -of a joke. Most uncommon joke it was, but I certainly am right when I -say I can taste those legs yet. Whoa! Steady, boys?" And we slowed our -horses down to a walk.</p> - -<p>The soldiers came galloping up, and the one who appeared to be a -corporal, by the cheverons on the sleeves of his tunic, drew alongside -of me and saluted.</p> - -<p>"Sorry, sir, but orders are to accompany you to your party at the Inn -and bring whatever luggage you wish to send back with me," said he.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p><p>"But I'm not coming back to the Hall for some time," I answered. "Do -you wish to go with me to the militia camp? It's doubtful if they would -receive you well, or allow you to return to the frigate after seeing -your uniform."</p> - -<p>"We only go three miles," said the man, "and if your party is not with -us after traveling that distance, we will postpone meeting them this -evening and shall return together."</p> - -<p>"Shall is a big word," said Barron, laughing. "Don't you know any better -than to use it to a gentleman? I reckon your discipline or early family -training has been neglected."</p> - -<p>"Our discipline aboard the <i>Fowey</i> is fair,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span> answered the soldier, -coolly, "and as for my family training, I don't think such things count -for much. Family is nothing to me, for the only ones I ever knew of mine -were cowardly and bad."</p> - -<p>"Does that apply to your mother and father?" asked Barron, much amused.</p> - -<p>"Most certainly. My mother was a woman on the streets, and my father was -probably some chance acquaintance of a day or two, though I never heard -his name, or have I ever met him; but if you think my ancestry makes me -an inferior being to your self, I shall take pleasure in proving that a -man's worth depends entirely on the education or training he gives -himself, mentally or physically."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span></p><p>"You speak with great precision," laughed Barron, "and I am sorry not -to have time to discuss your theory to a better advantage. That tall -pine tree ahead, with the eagle's nest in its top, is a trifle over -three miles from Judkins' Hall, so I regret to have to bid you good -evening."</p> - -<p>"If that really be so we shall all turn about here and go back to the -boat. We shall proceed no further in this direction. I suppose you know -I am master of arms on the frigate and quite capable of enforcing my -words with this." And he whipped out a long shining sword and his silent -mate did likewise.</p> - -<p>"Of course you gentlemen will not resort to anything so vulgar and -absurd as <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span>resistance. Therefore turn your horses and we may discuss -other matters."</p> - -<p>My temper had been steadily rising for some minutes past, and now it -burst beyond my control.</p> - -<p>I snatched out my rapier and dug my heels into my horse's ribs. The -animal sprang forward twenty paces. Then I drew up and wheeled suddenly, -and then bore down on that Corporal with all speed, my sword point aimed -at his breast.</p> - -<p>There was a crash as the animals and weapons met, and the next thing I -knew I was lying on my back by the roadside, grasping the hilt of my -puny, broken sword tightly in my right hand.</p> - -<p>Barron sat quietly in his saddle and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> laughed immoderately at me, while -the soldier seized my horse by the bridle and bade me remount.</p> - -<p>I sat up in the roadway a little dazed, but, collecting myself, I felt -under my coat to see if my pistols were all right. They were there, so I -arose, and, taking my horse from the Corporal, climbed painfully back -into the saddle again. Barron then drew his weapon and slowly placed -himself on guard.</p> - -<p>"You may or may not be right in your theory, Mr. Soldier," said he, "but -we are not to accompany you back to Dunmore. Mr. Judkins is a very young -and inexperienced swordsman compared to yourself, but his mishap was due -more to the worthlessness of his weapon than lack of skill."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p><p>"Tut! tut! I shall be forced to secure both of you with cords, if this -nonsense proceeds any further," said the Corporal. "Put up your sword -and waste no more time. Jim!" he called to his mate, "pass a line about -Mr. Judkin's wrists, lest he continue this nonsense past supper time."</p> - -<p>The soldier approached and bade me hold forth my hands that he might -secure them with a line he produced from under his belt. I saw there was -no use of putting off the crisis any longer, so I held out one of -them—my right—and in it was gripped the butt of the straightest -shooting pistol on the Virginia peninsula.</p> - -<p>"Give me your sword hilt," I said, as I raised the barrel level with his -eyes. But<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> the fool had seen me unhorsed so grossly, that he laughed in -my face, and made a pass at my weapon with his blade. I held fire while -his point cut my cheek open, and I ordered him back, hoping I could -spare his life. But he cursed me and pressed on, aiming a blow at my -head to knock me from my horse, so I could wait no longer. Then, to save -my life, I pulled down the flint. The next instant he lay dead in the -road with a bullet hole in the center of his forehead.</p> - -<p>It was all done so quickly that the Corporal and Barron sat looking on, -hardly realizing what had happened. This gave me the moment I needed, so -I pulled out my left hand weapon.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span></p><p>"Surrender your sword, sir," I cried to the Corporal, for the -excitement of the fight was hot within me and my patience was at an end.</p> - -<p>"Not to such a swordsman as you; it would disgrace me," replied the -Corporal contemptuously, and he began the fight by making a pass at -Barron, which the old Captain parried. Round and round and past each -other went the horses, guided by trained hands, and the sword blades -slipped with a ringing sound from lunge to parry. So fast did they fight -that I found myself sitting there quietly in my saddle looking on, never -thinking for an instant that one snap shot from my pistol would put an -end to the affair. It was rapidly growing dark,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> but at that distance I -could have broken the soldier's sword blade while it was in play, had I -so wished.</p> - -<p>The man was certainly a master of fence and I soon saw that Barron had -no chance whatever with him. Still I never thought to fire upon a man -engaged with another in a fair fight. The cut in my cheek bled freely, -but I felt no pain or dizziness and was cool enough to think calmly. -Once the thought came to me to get the dead man's sword and take part in -the unequal affray, but I put it aside and made up my mind to shoot only -at the last minute to save Barron's life. Suddenly a new idea flashed -through my head and I instantly raised the pistol. The corporal's horse -turned his nose<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span> in my direction and I marked the white blaze between -his eyes.</p> - -<p>"Crack!" And down both horse and rider went, just as Barron whirled a -wicked cut at the soldier's head. The old Captain's weapon went wide and -the Corporal jumped to his feet as lightly as a cat and was on guard -again before Barron fully realized what had happened.</p> - -<p>"Come!" I cried. "Let him go!" And I galloped away down the road before -I finished speaking. Barron wheeled his horse to follow just as the -soldier started for him. In an instant the animals were together, -running neck and neck, with that Corporal within six feet of Barron's -saddle, running as I had never seen a man run before.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p><p>Away we went, and for a second or two I was afraid Barron would be run -through the back, but the pace proved a trifle too strong for our enemy.</p> - -<p>Seeing this, the rascal made a vicious cut at Barron's mount and almost -hamstrung him, and then he dropped back while the poor animal hobbled -ahead desperately for several minutes, and finally brought up dead lame.</p> - -<p>"That man will certainly prove he is equal to both of us," said Barron, -"and put at variance all laws of heredity, if we don't do something to -stop him."</p> - -<p>"It's a pity I didn't shoot him, for that was my last shot," I said. -"Here he comes, and unless you can hold him in check until<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span> I get a -charge into this pistol, we will indeed see Dunmore or the devil -to-night."</p> - -<p>As I spoke the figure of the Corporal showed through the gathering -darkness, coming along the edge of the road at a smart walk with his -long sword in front of him.</p> - -<p>"You ride on ahead and let me settle with him," said Barron, quietly.</p> - -<p>"It is uncommon shameful to have to run from this vermin," I said, "but -I had him at my mercy once and let him go."</p> - -<p>"So had he you, my boy," laughed Barron.</p> - -<p>It did seem hard to have to get away from this creature, the -acknowledged offspring of a prostitute, but it was apparently certain<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> -death to face him. I strove to get a charge into one of my pistols, but -by the time I had the powder in the barrel he was up with us. He saw -what I was about and instantly started for me. And then, yes, I shall -have to confess it, then I put spurs to my mount and went down that dark -road as though thirty devils were at my heels. The corporal's long sword -could not reach me, so he soon gave up the chase and turned his -attention to Barron.</p> - -<p>In another minute my pistol was loaded and I was riding back again as -fast as I could.</p> - -<p>Barron had dismounted and they had just begun a passage as I rode up.</p> - -<p>I was almost beside myself with rage and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span> I rode close to the soldier to -be certain of my aim. I meant to end matters and would run no risk at -night, so I shot quick and sure for the centre of the man's body and had -the satisfaction of seeing him double up and drop in the roadway.</p> - -<p>Barron stooped over him and picked up his long straight sword. He looked -at it for a moment and then passed it to me. It was a very heavy weapon -and as sharp as a razor.</p> - -<p>"Come," said Barron, "let us carry him into the bushes and go ahead."</p> - -<p>The form of the soldier moved slightly as he spoke.</p> - -<p>"I thought you killed him," he continued, and he sprang forward with his -sword drawn back for a final thrust.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span></p><p>"Hold on!" I cried, "he's dead unless made of iron," and I jumped down -from my horse and bent over the fallen man just as he started to raise -himself.</p> - -<p>"His belt! Quick!" I cried, and I grasped him around the body with all -my strength.</p> - -<p>Before he fully realized what was taking place, we had his elbows lashed -fast behind him and I had a chance to find out why he not was dead.</p> - -<p>My bullet had struck him just below the breast bone and over the heart, -but between him and it was the cross belt buckle-plate of his uniform. -The lead had flattened on this, but the stroke of the ball had sent him -to the ground unable to move for over a minute.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p><p>"You are a most disputatious man, Mr. Soldier," said Barron, good -humoredly, "and at one time you had nearly all the facts necessary to -establish the truthfulness of your side of the argument. I hope you are -now convinced of the value of good breeding, and will not, in the -future, thrust yourself into company uncongenial to your taste. However, -you shall now accompany us to the Inn, for I would hardly trust you to -return to Mr. Johnson alone to-night."</p> - -<p>"Had I believed you were not too scared to return," said the soldier, -looking straight at me, "I would have followed you and killed you. Your -horse is a good runner."</p> - -<p>"And for such an absurd mistake, I very nearly killed you," I answered. -"Had I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span> known you were so bent upon mischief, I would have sent your -soul to the devil some twenty minutes ago. We will now go back and get -your mate's horse and you will walk between us the rest of the way."</p> - -<p>In a few minutes we were back to where the dead soldier lay and Barron -was soon mounted upon his animal—which, by the way, was mine, as were -also the other three, and it caused me some little regret to lose two of -them on account of this hard headed soldier.</p> - -<p>We carried the dead man to the roadside and laid him in bushes. Then we -proceeded quietly upon our way, and the moon rose like a huge ball of -silver to light up the dark road.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER IX</h2> - -<p>Pendleton's Inn, as you may remember, was a famous place in its time. -Colonel George Washington often stopped there, and Mr. Patrick Henry -often held a group of listeners spellbound with his peculiar eloquence -on its wide verandah.</p> - -<p>So proud was the proprietor of his distinguished guests, that the bed -Colonel Washington usually slept in, and even a certain chair at the -head of the dining room table, in which it was claimed he generally sat, -have been preserved and pointed out to new-comers as objects of peculiar -interest. As for me, I have been to hardly a single<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> house between New -York and Richmond that has not boasted of possessing some of the -Washington furniture, and I have been somewhat sociable in my habits.</p> - -<p>Pendleton himself was a sad rake. But his hospitality was known to the -young men for miles around, and his house was often used as a meeting -place on Sunday afternoons, when the gentlemen would indulge themselves -in such exciting sports as cock-fighting and rat killing. Sometimes -affrays of a more sanguinary nature occurred within the limits of its -broad orchard, but these happened seldom, and, on the whole, the Inn was -considered respectable enough for any lady in the commonwealth.</p> - -<p>"I could not have stood it much longer,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> my dear Richard," said my -mother, the morning after our arrival. "I am too old for such scenes as -that which happened at the Hall. I have not slept since Mary was taken -away, and I have not had my bath for two days. All the servants ran away -from that odious Captain and his terrible men. The only ones I have with -me here are old Mammy Liza and Mary Jane Johnson. They were so old the -men took no notice of them, so they hobbled all the way over here to me. -But they cannot do anything, let alone fix my bath. And poor Rose, she -has been so quiet. Not a word has passed her lips and she walks to and -fro in her room with her head held tightly in her hands. The shock to -her young nerves<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span> at seeing such revelry has completely unstrung her. -Mammy Liza said she had delirium last night, for she heard Rose scream -'villain' and 'scoundrel' at the top of her voice, and when she looked -into her room she was sitting in bed with her hands clenched and her -eyes staring into vacancy."</p> - -<p>"I suppose she will not breakfast with us, then," I said.</p> - -<p>"I doubt it, but when I tell her you and Captain Barron are to take us -to Williamsburg, she may make her appearance in time. You will not leave -before we get some news of Will and Lord Dunmore, will you?"</p> - -<p>"Possibly not," I answered, "but it is<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> hardly worth while to stay here. -It is not likely the Governor will send a party this far inland after -us, and as for Will, he will have no message of importance, even if he -has a chance to send one. The Governor is in a hurry to get out of the -river, for the climate does not agree with him. He is probably now as -far down as Jamestown on his way out."</p> - -<p>While I was speaking, Barron made his appearance, accompanied by old -Pendleton and half a score of armed men who had camped in the barn over -night. These militiamen were on their way to join the forces under -Colonel Henry, and they were armed and dressed in the most fantastic -manner. They had just visited our prisoner,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span> the Corporal, who was -confined in a box-stall in the stable, and were in high good humor at -the soldier's fierce threats and wild vaporings. Barron left these men -on the far end of the verandah and came up and saluted my mother.</p> - -<p>"I shall wait upon you, madam," he said, "just as soon as I ride over to -my lodgings at the Widow Brown's house and attend to some little private -matters there. It is not likely I will be back this way before next -year, and I reckon I had better tell my landlady so. I think, however, -that the Governor has made his last trip up the river, and, if that is -the case, you can soon go back and remain unmolested at the Hall. But -here comes our host, and he looks as if<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span> he had some matters of -importance to communicate."</p> - -<p>"Matam ees sarved wid her bickfust," spoke up old Pendleton, giving my -mother a sweeping bow as he approached.</p> - -<p>"In that case we will all go in together and fortify ourselves for the -coming ride," I said, and I led the way to the table with my mother on -my arm. We no sooner sat down than Miss Carter made her appearance. It -was so late the night before when we arrived that I had not had a chance -for more than a word of greeting with her, so she received Barron and -myself very graciously.</p> - -<p>In spite of her pleasant manner, I noticed the large blue eyes—I had -seen only to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span> admire so often before—were swollen and red, and the poor -girl appeared to have suffered much. A man must be very selfish when in -love, for it was quite plain to me that she was suffering more than I, -yet I would not have had Harrison back there at that moment, had I been -certain of his conventional behavior with my sister Mary. There is no -use of denying it, I felt almost glad that he had run off with my -sister. I was sure Mary loved him, and I reasoned that no harm could -happen to her. I was equally certain Byrd would soon reappear with the -news that she and Harrison were happily married. I was furious to see -this beautiful woman breaking her heart for another, but was glad that -his act was irrevocable and left the field clear for myself.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span></p><p>Barron waxed especially lively during the meal and ordered some of -Pendleton's new cider, suggesting that Miss Carter and my mother drink -some to refresh themselves for lack of sleep.</p> - -<p>"It is weak enough, I reckon," said he, "for I call to mind the time -Bullbeggor and I stopped here last year. His nigger, Snake in the Grass, -had never seen this stuff, for the Major sticks pretty well to stronger -waters. One cold night I gave the rascal a bottle filled with the stuff -and told him to be careful with it, as it was very good. He sneaked off -after supper into the woods and the Major couldn't find him again that -evening. About midnight, while we sat smoking and talking, we heard a -knock at<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> the door. I went into the entry and opened it, and there was -Snake, shivering and shaking with cold. 'What's the matter, Snake?' I -asked, when I got him inside. 'Oh, Marse Barron, yo' dun me mean,' he -said, 'I went outen the woods to drink dat stuff on de quiet, an' I dun -set thar fo' hours waitin fo' de drunk tu come—an' I'se nearly froze. -Yessah, yo' dun me mean, suh; sho' nuff mean, an' I'se nearly froze.'"</p> - -<p>"Major Bull, he stopped here de oder day wid his nigger," added -Pendleton.</p> - -<p>"How about his shoulder, was it paining him much?" I asked.</p> - -<p>"His shoulder! Nien it was a leedle hole, de pain shooded all through -him. He has dem shooding pains always shooding through<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> him. Dey was -only leedle pains. Mein Gott! I never see de Major, but wid a leedle -shooding pain."</p> - -<p>"Then he went on and joined the militia at Williamsburg as he intended?" -asked Miss Rose.</p> - -<p>"Not only that," I put in, "but it was he who did some little fighting -with that Captain Fordyce in the little skirmish below here the other -day."</p> - -<p>"And perhaps that is why the Captain acted as he did at the Hall. People -are usually judged by the company they keep, and they all had heard of -the duel," said Miss Rose, with a little sting of resentment in her -voice.</p> - -<p>"If that be really so, people's judgments<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span> are most unjust, for a man -certainly cannot always choose his own companions," I replied.</p> - -<p>"I think he can," she answered.</p> - -<p>"God grant that it be even so," I said, quietly, and I caught her eye -for an instant.</p> - -<p>Barron was laughing and looking at my mother, but Miss Carter appeared -to take no notice of him and continued to eat her egg with more ill -tempter than appetite.</p> - -<p>When we were through the meal, Barron rode over to his lodgings and then -returned within an hour. After that we had the horses brought up, and he -and I acted as outriders to my mother and Miss Carter, who rode in -Pendleton's chaise with old Mammy Liza and Mary Jane on the rear seat. -One of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span> my field hands, who came over to the Inn, acted as driver. -Pendleton was to collect the rest of my people and take care of them -until my mother was ready to return to the Hall.</p> - -<p>We started off with a contingent of the militia bringing up behind us as -a rear guard, and among them walked the Corporal with his belt strapped -about his elbows behind him.</p> - -<p>It was something uncommon in the way of a procession, as we rode slowly -down the old Virginia turnpike. Barron, sitting his horse in an easy, -soldierly fashion, riding on one side of the carriage, and I riding on -the other, while the motley men with muskets and squirrel rifles, having -the English <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span>corporal in their midst, came straggling along through our -thick yellow dust-cloud in the rear. The sun shone brightly and the -birds sang merrily in the fields and woodlands, so our spirits rose, and -even Miss Carter began to smile at Barron's jests.</p> - -<p>The long, heavy sword I captured from the Corporal jangled uncomfortably -from my belt, and it, together with my two silver mounted pistols, which -I now carried in full view, gave me a most warlike appearance. But my -clothing was of the latest fashion, and even my shoes showed the marks -of care my poor boy Sam had bestowed upon them. But if I attracted some -attention from the neighboring farmers, I hardly know what amount of -interest was excited by the looks of our strange followers.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span></p><p>Some of these had their hair long and matted, hanging down over blouses -or hunting shirts of deer skin, giving them an almost wild look. Their -long rifles had the old fashioned heavy flint and wide primer and were -of small calibre, best fitted for hunting squirrels and such game. But -their powder horns held enough ammunition for a campaign, and they were -all tolerable shots. Those who carried muskets appeared perfectly -contented that their weapons made a loud noise and asked for nothing -better than a range at which it would be almost impossible to miss an -enemy—or hit a friend. Some carried old swords of the most unusual -patterns,—looking as though they might have once done good duty as -scythes,—and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> all carried knives. A young clown, from one of the upper -counties, carried a musket with fixed bayonet and had the impudence to -try and force the Corporal to put him through the manual of arms, even -threatening to blow the soldier's head off if he gave an improper order. -All of them were entirely without discipline, and all gave orders and -offered suggestions at one and the same time. This, of course, -invariably ended in a dispute that had to be settled by long arguments, -in which all who wished to took part. Several times, during their -bickerings, they fell far behind us, only to catch up again later on, -and all day long their hilarious songs, accompanied by frequent -fusilades of rifle shots, kept us in excellent knowledge of their -whereabouts.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p><p>At noon we passed Doncastle's ordinary, where the affair of the -gunpowder brought about the first distinct rupture between Lord Dunmore -and the people. Everything appeared quiet and peaceful and the place -showed no signs of war.</p> - -<p>We had little conversation on the ride, and I found myself thinking a -great deal of my poor boy Sam and Will Byrd. Will, I felt sure, would -take care of the wounded fellow and endeavor to prevent him from falling -into other hands, and I believed Sam would soon get over his hurt, for -he was a powerful nigger, broad-built and with good pluck. I tried to -imagine what would happen to Harrison if Sam ever met him before matters -were peacefully settled. But then<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span> I knew that Harrison would not return -to his plantation until the war was over, and I believed it would be a -long time before peace reigned again in the colonies.</p> - -<p>At intervals during the ride I came close to the carriage and endeavored -to engage Miss Carter's attention, but she appeared so sad and listless -that, out of sheer pity, I forbore to worry her with my presence. Once I -thought I noticed her looking at me intently with a curious, searching -expression in her eyes for some moments, but when I turned my gaze in -her direction she immediately stared vacantly at the scenery ahead.</p> - -<p>I told my mother of my intention of joining the forces under Mr. Henry, -and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span> strange to say she did not appear to be either surprised or -disappointed. On the contrary, she began instantly to give me all manner -of advice about taking care of myself when camping in the field, and -above all implored me never to expose myself to the danger of getting -shot.</p> - -<p>"It is absurd," said she, "that a gentleman should expose himself to the -hurts which belong to the common, vulgar soldier. A true general always -takes care of himself, for with him rests the care of the whole army. -Should anything happen to the officer in command, what, oh what would -become of those poor fellows dependent upon him for his high courage and -intelligence? They would certainly be lost,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span> and it is for them, my dear -Richard, you should sacrifice all brute feelings of ferocious courage -and keep yourself in hand."</p> - -<p>Barron agreed with her in her sentiments, and she made him promise -faithfully that he would never leave my side in the hour of danger, and -never allow me to be carried away by my youthful ardor; all of which he -did with a grave countenance, and some little ceremony, in spite of a -little frivolity on my part.</p> - -<p>In the late afternoon we caught sight of the white tents of the militia, -and soon afterwards we were entering the quaint old town of -Williamsburg. We headed for my uncle's house, which stood near the -college, in the best part of the town, for my uncle's<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span> wife, Aunt Jane, -as I called her, was a person of some prominence, and was of the ancient -family of O'Brian, which, as you know, was once royal.</p> - -<p>The streets were full of men from the surrounding country, who gathered -in groups as we passed, and pointed at us and stared as though we were -something remarkable. But they were all rough men, who had never seen -much, and belonged to the outlying settlements and farms where no -gentleman ever gets, except by hunting or some mishap. The men who -appeared to be soldiers wore no regular uniform, and might have passed -for a lot of armed yokels starting out on a coon hunt.</p> - -<p>As we drew near our destination we<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> heard the sound of galloping horses, -and presently several mounted men came riding around the corner ahead of -us.</p> - -<p>I recognized Patrick Henry and Colonel Woodford at a glance. The former -had made himself a colonel of militia and rode a powerful grey horse at -the front of the groups, while on either hand rode Colonel Woodford and -Colonel Bullet. Behind them came several other gentlemen, well known -along the James river for their anti-British politics. Among them I -recognized Major Bullbeggor and also Mr. Jacquelin, who had been -captured by Fordyce, and who had escaped from his captors by running -while they were suddenly confined in his wine cellar. Still farther in -the rear rode<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span> some mounted servants, with Snake in the Grass in their -midst.</p> - -<p>The Major saluted with a flourish as he rode past, as did the rest of -the officers, and Snake's hat continued to rise and fall while his -nodding, grinning face was turned towards us until the cavalcade -disappeared in the direction of the encampment behind the college.</p> - -<p>On arriving at our destination, we received a warm welcome from my aunt -Jane and cousin Marion. Although my uncle, Thomas Burns, Esq., had died -some years before, my aunt and cousin were living in the most -comfortable circumstances. While they lived simply in their large -mansion, they had an abundance of home comforts and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> many house -servants, and cousin Marion, though only sixteen, was considered one of -the wealthiest as well as prettiest women in Virginia. Aunt Jane was -well known for her kind acts of charity and hospitality, so you may be -sure there was nothing lacking for our comfort on our arrival at her -house.</p> - -<p>In spite of this Barron and I were all eagerness to go to the camp and -report to Colonel Henry—as we now heard him called—for duty. Even the -prospect of a few hours alone with Miss Carter and my pretty cousin -Marion, was not enough to curb my impatience to be among the men, who I -now felt certain would make some history to be handed down through all -time.</p> - -<p>I know Marion laughed at my warlike <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>appearance, but I changed that a -little by fixing my pistols under my coat and hitching up my heavy -broadsword until it cocked up as prettily behind as a rapier. In this -attire I bade my pretty cousin good-bye, with cousinly privilege, and -bowed low to Miss Carter. Then Barron and I mounted our horses and rode -off with Marion's laugh ringing after us. She was a very pretty girl and -as good as ever lived, but I thought very little about her as we rode -down the main street in the direction of Colonel Henry's headquarters.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER X</h2> - -<p>The first person we met on arriving in front of Colonel Henry's house -was our old friend, Major Bullbeggor.</p> - -<p>"I am feeling pretty peart, Mr. Judkins," he replied, in answer to my -greeting. "That little punch Harrison gave me is almost well, and -besides a slight twitching of the bones and some little stiffening of -the joints, with a little pain shooting through them, I am feeling fine, -sir. Yes, sir, feeling like a bird, sir. But where on earth did you get -that English sword, and what brought you and your mother here so soon? -Dunmore, for sure. No fear! The rascal passed down<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span> the river this -morning and I don't think he will try coming up again. But what can we -do without ships or guns? We gave them a dusting on the island, the -other day, and lost poor Jim Horn and three niggers before leaving. -Bullet and I had a hard time to get out, and Snake took a slight hurt."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I heard all about it," I answered. And then Barron and I told how -we were captured and taken aboard the vessels, and how Harrison had -served my people at the Hall while we were absent.</p> - -<p>The Major's eyes flashed as we told the story and his hand went -nervously to his sword hilt. "I didn't hit him hard enough," he said -fiercely, when we had told of the actions of the soldiers at the Hall.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span></p><p>While we continued speaking, we were interrupted by an uproar which -arose from the street beyond the college, and on looking in that -direction from which the sounds proceeded we suddenly saw the figure of -a man, covered completely from head to foot with feathers, come running -along the pavement towards us. Behind him came a howling mob, armed with -every conceivable sort of weapon, and they pressed closely upon the -runner's heels. The fugitive stopped suddenly in front of me and spoke -out—</p> - -<p>"If you'll give me that sword of mine for a few minutes, I think I might -show these fools the absurdity of playing their infernal games upon one -of his Majesty's soldiers," he said coolly, and I instantly recognized<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span> -the voice of the corporal who had engaged us so hotly the day before. He -was almost completely hidden under his coat of tar and feathers, and the -only part of his face visible was his nose and eyes.</p> - -<p>Barron and the Major burst into uncontrollable laughter, in which I -joined.</p> - -<p>But the man's tormentors were upon him before I had even time to -consider his proposition. They surrounded him and began prodding him -with sticks and bayonets, shouting and jeering in derision.</p> - -<p>Bullbeggor was the first of us to recover himself. He drew his sword and -struck his spurs into his powerful mare, making her spring forward -through the crowd. He knocked down several men in his path and reined up -alongside the prisoner.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span></p><p>"Disperse!" he roared. "Break away!" And he struck some of the men -nearest him with the flat side of his blade. Barron and I spurred -forward and joined him, for the natives were waxing furious at this -interruption and I noticed one man bringing his musket to his shoulder. -The Major saw the fellow in time to avert disaster, and he leaned -forward and smote the weapon so strongly that it fell from the -scoundrel's hands. Then we closed around the prisoner with our swords -sweeping at arm's length, and the Major thundered forth orders for the -men to disperse, threatening them with all sorts of military punishments -if they did not.</p> - -<p>But these wild men had no idea of <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span>discipline, and feared nothing, so -they still crowded sulkily around us, brandishing their weapons and -cursing us heartily for interfering with their sport.</p> - -<p>The uproar had been heard at headquarters, and Colonel Henry appeared on -the verandah accompanied by Colonel Bullet, Woodford, and some other -officers. Colonel Woodford roared out orders, and some of the men about -us turned to see who our new ally was. Then they suddenly recognized -Patrick Henry, as he stood there in his waistcoat on the verandah.</p> - -<p>There was something in the calm dignity of Colonel Henry's manner that -arrested all the fierceness of these rough men's passions and drew -attention to him as the magnet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> draws soft iron. He stood there on the -verandah and held out his hand over that wild mob, and spoke, and in -less than half a minute every man was silent and listening.</p> - -<p>I cannot recall the words that fell from the lips of that grand orator, -and when I think of him standing there speaking, it seems to me it was -not the words at all that affected me, but the deep power of the man's -nature.</p> - -<p>I have heard men speak to men in my time, and have listened to some of -the eloquent words of those who have made history; but nothing I ever -heard compared to the power and force of those words that fell from the -lips of that plain and uncouth officer standing there on the verandah of -that house in Williamsburg.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span></p><p>He spoke to that mob of honor and manhood, and of the grand things of -war, and bade them remember that mercy to a fallen enemy showed the -difference between a coward and a man.</p> - -<p>When he finished there was not one of that ruffian crowd who looked -squarely at his neighbor, and two minutes afterwards there were not six -of them in sight.</p> - -<p>The only person there who appeared in no way affected by Patrick Henry's -remarkable eloquence, was the English corporal.</p> - -<p>He looked carelessly about him for a moment and then at Major -Bullbeggor.</p> - -<p>"I have to thank you," said he, "for interfering with those farmers, for -as you see, I am entirely unarmed and undressed—except<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span> for this growth -of feathers. But I am no chicken sir, in spite of them. No, sir, I'm -hardly classed as a chicken—as these two gentlemen with you might -testify.</p> - -<p>"If the ugly old duck, there,"—and he pointed to Barron—"would like to -continue the argument we were engaged in last night, I think I might -persuade him of the fallacy of his ideas concerning his birth and self -importance."</p> - -<p>"You have most remarkable powers of logic," laughed Barron, "and if -reason and sword-play were analogous I doubt not that you could sustain -your premise. But there are too many men like you in this world who wish -to maintain their point by reason of false analogy. Therefore, I warn -you that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span> unless you mend your speech I shall turn you over again to -Colonel Gibson's lambs, and they will hardly let you off so easily the -next time."</p> - -<p>"If they are his lambs," replied the soldier, turning and looking at -Colonel Henry, "I take it he is a preacher, and now I mark it, the -fellow has a most ecclesiastical mode of speech. One would think him an -itinerant minister, holding forth to his flock of"—</p> - -<p>"Silence! you dog," growled the Major, "know your betters, or I'll -stretch you on the wheel." Then he beckoned to an orderly who stood nigh -the steps of the house and in a moment the Corporal was led away to be -scraped and scrubbed.</p> - -<p>Barron and myself were then introduced<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span> to Colonel Henry, Woodford, and -other officers in the group, after which we were left to ourselves to -discuss more or less learnedly the probable outcome of affairs in the -colonies, while the older men went back to their duties. I knew little -or nothing about military organization, so when the talk drifted into -certain channels I withheld my speech. Before we left, however, Barron -and I had been assigned volunteer positions; he as captain of a company -of farmers, and I as a lieutenant in it, all under the command of Major -Bullbeggor, who, in turn, belonged to Colonel Bullet's regiment. Rank -was a pretty hard thing to determine in those days, for nearly everybody -was addressed as "Colonel" or "Major,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span> no matter what they were in -reality. Besides this, there were several jealous men in the Richmond -assembly who pretended to doubt Colonel Henry's military ability, and -for a long time I believed Colonel Woodford in command.</p> - -<p>The brave and gallant Bullet, however, took the place assigned him -without a word, as did Bullbeggor, Barron and myself, and we strove to -get some discipline into the hunters and farmers who made up our rank -and file.</p> - -<p>Gibson's Lambs, as his command of wild men were called, were almost -beyond the reach of discipline, and were little better than Indians, so -at one time Colonel Woodford was strongly tempted to disband the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> whole -outfit, but later on they began to show signs of intelligence and were -kept in ranks.</p> - -<p>We drilled and drilled, day after day, until finally we had the -satisfaction of heading a poorly armed, but fairly well organized, set -of men.</p> - -<p>During this period we had several times had news of Berkley Harrison. He -and my sister were apparently married and living happily together at -Norfolk, but strange to say not a letter or word came direct from either -of them. Of Will Byrd and Sam there had been no trace since they went -aboard the frigate the evening I left the Hall. Barron sent several -messengers to Norfolk to find out their whereabouts, but to no purpose.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p><p>Whenever I had time to spare from the camp, I usually came over to see -my mother and cousin Marion. Miss Carter had seldom put in appearance -until the day Snake in the Grass brought the news of Harrison and my -sister living so happily together. Then her manner toward me instantly -changed, and instead of being out of sight she always put in appearance -whenever I called at my aunt's house. This amused me not a little, but I -was not ready to indulge her whims too quickly, so I put off matters -until I finally became so entangled with my pretty cousin that I was on -the point of doing something foolish. But sometimes unforseen incidents -happen that pull a man out of a drifting current.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p><p>One evening my cousin was not feeling well, so Miss Carter and I took a -long walk around the encampment and visited Lord Dunmore's deserted -palace. As we walked along the sound of a nigger singing arrested our -attention. It was Snake's voice, and his deep bass notes rang weirdly -through the gathering darkness. Snake had a strange habit of fitting all -his feelings into song, and now he sang in deep mournful notes</p> - -<div class="center"><div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<div class="i5">"Dere is trouble ober heah</div> -<div class="i5">An' dere's trouble ober dar-r</div> -<div>An' I really do believe dere's trouble everywhar-r</div> -<div class="i5">Trouble, troub-ll</div> -<div class="i5">Trouble, troub-ll</div> -<div>Oh dere's trouble on de ol' man's mine."</div> -</div></div></div> - -<p>We tried to stop him as he rode past us, but he pretended not to see or -hear us, and rode away in the direction of the Major's quarters.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span></p><p>"Snake has a sorrowful mood upon him this evening," said Miss Carter, -after the singing had died away in the distance.</p> - -<p>"And by the same token, I reckon, there's some bad news ahead," I -answered, "and we might as well go to the Major's and find it out."</p> - -<p>When we reached there, we found that orders had just come for us to move -to Norfolk and take part in the operations against the British. I was -glad the news was no worse, and I must say I felt a great relief, in -spite of those I must leave behind me.</p> - -<p>This was my last evening to spend with my people, and I determined to -know my fate in a certain direction, so I recalled a few things to Miss -Carter that had passed between us.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p><p>"My dear Dick," she said, "you have a most charming cousin. Why don't -you marry her?"</p> - -<p>"In the first place, she would not marry me; and in the second, she is -hardly to my way of thinking," I replied.</p> - -<p>"But you might alter your thoughts and ask her; she is pretty, wealthy, -and a lady born," said Miss Carter.</p> - -<p>"So was your grandmother," I replied, "but that fact does not presuppose -any love for her on my part, charming as she still is. You also have the -qualities you have just mentioned, and you, you only, do I, or can I -ever love."</p> - -<p>"If that is so, I shall be blessed with a most stupid husband," said -Rose—and that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span> was all. I bade her good-night at my aunt's front door -and I think, or rather hope, it was quite dark. Then I went on my way -whistling, as happy as a boy.</p> - -<p>The days that followed in the mud and rain near Norfolk, were -disheartening enough, but I never for an instant despaired. My whole -life seemed filled with a great coming joy, and even old soldiers like -Barron and Bullbeggor wondered at my never-failing spirits. There were -nearly a thousand of us, badly armed and half-frozen men, under the -command of Colonel Woodford, camped at the end of the causeway known as -Great Bridge. It was December, and the weaker men fell away rapidly, -until there were scarcely two hundred able <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span>riflemen left in the -trenches on the night of the eighth.</p> - -<p>I was lying in my tent on this night, listening to the rain and thinking -happy thoughts of the joys in store for me when I should return to the -Hall and marry the beautiful girl I loved. Barron slept with me and was -snoring away at a great rate for it was long past midnight. I had just -made up my mind to cease building air-castles and follow his example, -and had fastened the tent flies and stretched myself out comfortably in -my wet blanket, when a noise outside startled me.</p> - -<p>It sounded like the stealthy tread of someone bent on a secret purpose, -which, at this hour and place, would probably be anything but good.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p><p>I reached carefully for my pistol and noiselessly cocked back the -flint, and then stared through the inky darkness toward the tent fly. I -lay listening for a moment or two longer and then was aware of something -moving under the canvas at my side. In an instant I clapped the muzzle -of my pistol to it and called out, "Stop!"</p> - -<p>"For God's sake, take your pistol away and let me in, quick!" said a -well known voice, and the next instant Will Byrd was inside the tent. -Another form followed his and for a moment I was almost smothered by -Sam's embrace.</p> - -<p>"What time is it?" asked Will, quickly.</p> - -<p>"Not quite three, I believe," I answered. "But for heaven's sake, how -did you get"—</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p><p>"Hurry, then, we have just about time," interrupted Will, paying no -attention to my question. "They attack you at daylight. We have just -escaped, and came through the swamp to avoid being taken by these -farmers and held until too late"—</p> - -<p>"Hello! What's the matter? Who's that?" cried Barron, starting up from -his blanket.</p> - -<p>"Will and Sam," I said, "They've just come over. The grenadier company -from the fort will be on the causeway in an hour." And in less than a -minute all of us were on our way to Colonel Woodford's tent to tell him -the news.</p> - -<p>Little noise was made as we gathered our men at the end of the causeway, -and as we hurried about Will told me, between breaths<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> that my sister -Mary and Harrison were living in the town of Norfolk where Will had been -held close prisoner until an hour or two before. He had failed to gain -the good will of the governor on going back to the frigate after our -flight, and both he and Sam were closely confined. As soon as Sam was -able to work, he was taken out and sent, with a lot of other captured -slaves, to help strengthen the fortifications of the town.</p> - -<p>Here he heard the news of the proposed attack and managed to liberate -Will and escape with him in time to warn us.</p> - -<p>"When was Mary married, and at what church?" I asked breathlessly.</p> - -<p>But Will suddenly turned away and did not answer and, taking an old -musket from<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> a farmer, pretended to be busily engaged in fixing the -flint.</p> - -<p>I was working hard with my men, trying to get an old twelve pounder into -position to sweep the bridge, but the wheels of its carriage were so -rotten and stuck so deeply in the mud, that they finally broke down -completely, leaving the gun useless.</p> - -<p>As the gray dawn of the winter morning deepened, objects began to grow -more distinct. We shivered in our wet clothes and strained our eyes in -the direction of the fort that covered the farthest approach to Great -Bridge.</p> - -<p>Something moved in the dim distance.</p> - -<p>Slowly and surely it drew nearer, and then we saw the head of the -British column coming silently over the long causeway.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p><p>I shook from head to foot with cold and excitement, and was so ashamed -because I did so, I felt like doing something foolish to prove my -courage. It was very trying to stand there on that cold, wet morning and -not even speak above a whisper, or move more than a foot or two, while -that column, with a company of grenadiers in the van, made its way to -within speaking distance of us.</p> - -<p>The enemy was so close that, even in that bad light, the features of the -men were easily distinguished, and their hard, bronzed faces looked -strangely fierce from under their tall grenadier hats. Then a nervous -rifleman on my left blazed off his priming, and the next instant a -hundred rifles rang<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span> out from the breastworks into a deep, rolling roar.</p> - -<p>The head of the column seemed to melt away like an icicle in the -sunshine. Men pitched over each other in a tangled heap of guns, arms -and legs. But the rest behind them came steadily onward, firing together -in volleys that sounded like a single report.</p> - -<p>Our line fairly flamed with rifle flashes, and the men yelled and -shouted at each discharge, until the blending of yells and musket firing -became almost deafening.</p> - -<p>Suddenly the column wavered. Then backward it went and appeared almost -on the point of breaking. Officers waved their swords and shouted -furiously at the men, and like the gallant soldiers they were, they<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span> -closed up and came onward again with a scorching fire that seemed to -fairly fill the air with flying lead.</p> - -<p>A bullet cut the coon-skin cap from the head of an old hunter at my -elbow, but he never even winced, and coolly bit the end off his -cartridge and rammed the lead home as if making ready to fire at a -target.</p> - -<p>They were within twenty paces of us now, and I fired my pistols with the -certain knowledge that the bullets would strike within an inch of the -spot at which I aimed. The officer leading the grenadiers sprang forward -upon the breastwork, gave a shout to his men, and then, waving his -sword, he brought it down with a sweep at my head. He was a brave -fellow, and I did not know<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> it was Fordyce until after my pistol bullet -had passed through his body and he had rolled back among his men.</p> - -<p>It was now almost hand to hand fighting, and the hot blasts of the -muskets, firing in our faces, scorched the skin and blinded us so that -nothing could be seen a few feet distant, but we had the advantage of -only having to expose our faces, whereas the enemy had to stand to it in -full view.</p> - -<p>I saw Colonel Woodford ride past the line within a foot of me, sitting -his horse easily in full view of the enemy, but he remained untouched.</p> - -<p>The fight raged fiercely, but our men refused to be dislodged. The -grenadiers were forced backward on the causeway, where<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span> they rallied -upon the tory infantry coming to their support, and in a moment the -smoke cleared away enough to see them forming for another desperate -charge.</p> - -<p>Again and again did they storm that line of riflemen, and each time they -were repulsed and forced onto the causeway. Then, with great precision, -they closed up and drew away, firing steadily as they went, the tory -infantry leading.</p> - -<p>A great shout went up from our victorious soldiers, and Colonel Bullet -leaped, sword in hand, over the breastworks and called for the men to -follow him. Bullbeggor pushed forward on the right, and led half a score -of men onto the causeway, but the British fired so steadily, and kept -their formation<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> so well, that Colonel Woodford would not risk any -mishap to mar so grand a victory. The men were recalled, in spite of the -gallant Bullet's protests, but the rifle fire was kept up from the -breastwork until the enemy was well across and out of range. All along -the line of that long causeway they dropped from the ranks before the -murderous fire of those Virginians, and when they at last gained the -protection of the guns of their fort on the other side, there was not -one grenadier left unhit. The rest of them broke and became a -disorganized mob, making for shelter where it could be found, while the -way now being clear the fort opened a heavy fire that soon kept our men -under cover.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p><p>When I had time to look about me I was astonished at the small number -of our wounded. In that hot fire it seemed to me that nearly everyone -must get hit. But the poor light and breastworks had saved us many -lives, and our victory was not robbed of its joy by the presence of many -dead and wounded comrades. Not over a score of our men were hit, and -only a few of these casualties resulted fatally. Barron had his coat cut -in three places by balls, for he had exposed himself unnecessarily, and -Bullbeggor had lost his hat and was bleeding from a scratch on his -forehead where a grenadier had made a pass at him with his bayonet and -then fired. The steel had cut the skin, but the bullet had missed and -the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span> discharge had blackened the Major's face until it was the color of -his servant's. Snake wished to attend his master, but the Major waved -him back and insisted on taking no notice of his hurt. He stalked up and -down the line of men, with his drawn sword held before him, stopping now -and then to see that a rifle was properly primed, or that the men did -not flinch too much from the artillery fire and become disorganized in -case of a renewal of the attack.</p> - -<p>Finally the fire of the fort slacked up, and then ceased altogether, and -we were able to go about unmolested. Twenty dead grenadiers lay piled up -at our end of the causeway, their red coats stained with blood and dirt. -Then, as the fever of the fight<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> died away in our veins, we looked out -upon those silent corpses and began to realize the grim glory of war. -Will joined me then and we shook hands silently over our success, and -afterwards we started to do what we could for our wounded men.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER XI</h2> - -<p>Shortly after the battle of Great Bridge the British evacuated Norfolk, -and we followed hard upon their heels. Will and I happened to be -together in the company that first entered the town, and we had some hot -skirmishing before we got well into the streets.</p> - -<p>He had told me little in regard to Harrison and my sister, but his sad -face and silent manner spoke plainer than words the thoughts which were -uppermost in his mind. Since the morning he crawled into my tent I had -refrained from asking any more questions.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p><p>We had become separated from our men in a smart rally about a tory -house, whose inhabitants had fired upon us and then fled, but Will -continued to lead the way rapidly through the main streets toward that -portion of the city where resided the most prominent followers of Lord -Dunmore.</p> - -<p>Even as we appeared in the streets people fled towards the water front, -where the boats of the men of war were plying back and forth, taking the -fugitives aboard in great numbers. Suddenly Will stopped at a corner and -looked sharply across the street at a house whose closed blinds gave it -a deserted appearance.</p> - -<p>Almost instantly the front door opened and Berkley Harrison walked out. -He saw<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span> us and turned towards us for an instant; then bowing politely he -made his way down the street.</p> - -<p>"Stop! Hold on!" I cried, and I ran across to intercept him. "Wait a -moment, you have something to tell me," I continued as I caught up with -him.</p> - -<p>For answer he drew his sword and stood on guard. Will stood silently -watching us.</p> - -<p>"Hold on!" I cried. "Where is Mary? What do you mean by that?" and I -pointed to his drawn weapon.</p> - -<p>"Miss Judkins is upstairs," he said coldly, and he drew himself up to -his full height, while that scornful smile I knew so well curled his -lips. "If you wish to see her," he continued, "you will probably find -her at home."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span></p><p>"But, Berk," I cried, "tell me, are you married, and is she going with -you? It's but a step to the frigate's boat and our men will not come -much closer. Tell me all about it, and how you intend to care for my -sister?"</p> - -<p>"You will have to excuse me, Mr. Judkins," said he. "I am not afraid of -your men, but every loyal man has left this town, and I must catch the -last boat to the frigate, where I have business of importance to attend -to."</p> - -<p>Then I realized the horrible truth that had begun to gain upon me since -I noticed Will's suspicious lack of knowledge of Harrison's affairs. I -was satisfied that Will had heard the true rumor of the affair, while he -was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> confined in prison, and now my wrath swelled beyond my control and -burst forth.</p> - -<p>"You damned villain," I said, almost in a whisper, and I had my sword -before me.</p> - -<p>We went at it; I with my blood afire, he with the coolness of a born -villain, who neither feared nor cared for anything.</p> - -<p>The rasping ring of sliding steel and the noise of our shuffling feet -were heard in the room above us, for in a moment a shutter clanged open -against the wall, and I heard my sister's voice shriek in dismay.</p> - -<p>I turned my head partially to try and see her face and slipped on the -wet pavement. Then I felt something like a bar of hot iron passing -through me and Harrison's cold, villainous face was close to mine. -There<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> was a sickening catching of the breath, but I sat my teeth hard -as the scoundrel withdrew his weapon. Then I reeled and fell to the -pavement.</p> - -<p>But I would not go, quite. Everything seemed to whirl around me, but I -drew my right hand pistol and cocked back the flint with fast weakening -fingers. Harrison appeared in a fog, and to be going up a steep hill -close to me, and then suddenly to be descending a frightful declivity as -I raised my weapon slowly. The pavement seemed to heave upward again, -and I marked the look on his craven features—for he knew what he was -facing—and I pulled the trigger with the sight on his heart.</p> - -<p>At that instant something struck the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span> weapon from my hand, and I was -aware of Will Byrd standing over me with his sword outstretched.</p> - -<p>I was going fast, but I drew my left pistol. Harrison was still standing -near me, but appeared to be double. I fired into him but an object -seemed to pass between us and something fell heavily to the pavement.</p> - -<p>Then I thought I saw the villain sheath his sword and bow to me, with -that same sneering smile on his face, and pass away out of sight down -the long street. I tried to raise myself to follow him and got to my -knees, then I pitched forward—</p> - -<p>It was late in the evening when I regained consciousness, and found -myself lying on a cot in a house which appeared to be an improvised -hospital, as there were many<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> wounded men about me. A wet compress lay -upon my chest and each breath I took caused me sharp pain. I looked at -the cot next to mine and noticed a familiar figure reclining there, and -as I did so it sat up. Then I recognized Will Byrd, but could not tell -how either he or I came to be where we were.</p> - -<p>He saw my eyes open, and gazed sadly and thoughtfully at me; then he -spoke.</p> - -<p>"How is it Dick, do you feel better?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes," I whispered, "are you hurt too?"</p> - -<p>"No, why?"</p> - -<p>"What are you lying there for?" Then I suddenly remembered. "Where's -Harrison?" I asked faintly, as the affair came back to me.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span></p><p>Will looked thoughtfully at me without speaking, and the expression of -deep sadness came over his face again.</p> - -<p>"Where is he?" I whispered.</p> - -<p>"His body was thrown into a trench with some others outside the town," -answered Will.</p> - -<p>"Then you killed him? Or was it a dream, what?" I gasped.</p> - -<p>"Don't try to talk, Dick. You remember you shot him, don't you? Hit him -through the body. I knocked your first pistol away, for your sister's -sake, but you fired again before I could stop you. Don't talk any more -and you will come out all right.</p> - -<p>"There's not much dream about the whole business, I only wish there was."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CHAPTER XII</h2> - -<p>The evacuation of Norfolk by the British practically ended the war for a -time in Virginia, and Dunmore soon sailed away never to return.</p> - -<p>In a couple of weeks I was on my feet again, very little the worse for -the wound Harrison had given me.</p> - -<p>Will had been with me all the time and Barron and the Major spent nearly -all their spare hours in the hospital.</p> - -<p>The companies had now begun to disband, that is all except those who -volunteered to join Washington's army at the north.</p> - -<p>Colonel Woodford gave over his command<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span> to Colonel Howe, of North -Carolina, and after that he did little else than receive the praise he -had so well earned. Everywhere he was feted and applauded, until even -the tories began to come over to his way of thinking.</p> - -<p>My company broke up and the men either went home or joined other -commands, and I was given indefinite leave on account of my wound. Will, -who held no commission, made ready to go with me to Judkins' Hall.</p> - -<p>Now that the fighting was over, Major Bullbeggor appeared to suffer -acutely, and I made up my mind that the only thing that would save the -old soldier's life would be for him to join the army in the north.</p> - -<p>"It's no use, Dick, my boy," said he, the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span> day before I left him. "I -have these pains a'shooting all through me and a vertigris in the skull. -Why, I wouldn't be able to stand anything in that cold climate. This -twitching of the nerves and numbing of the bones certainly means -disintegration, sir; yes, sir, it certainly does mean something. Go and -get married, Dick, and try to get Will to join the army in the north. He -will make a splendid soldier, for there's nothing so desperate and -dangerous in a fight as a man crossed in love."</p> - -<p>"But, Major," I said, "you know the army needs just such men as you to -guide them in military affairs. It's your duty to go where your country -calls for you when you are a soldier."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p><p>"I have a wife and six young children, Dick, all of them mostly ailing. -I've tried Miranda Jones' spring medicine, and all of them have had Dr. -McGuire bleed them until they could stand it no longer, but it didn't do -any good. They are all dependent on me. Who would pay for their -medicines if I should happen to fall ill and die?"</p> - -<p>"They would probably be much better off if such an accident did happen -to you," I answered, laughing. "It's about time you let them alone. I -certainly think you ought to volunteer, or better still, raise a company -with Will and myself in it. Then, with Sam and Snake to look out for us, -we might operate to some advantage."</p> - -<p>"I'll think of it, Dick. I'll think of it,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> but I must go now to -headquarters. Good-bye!" And his lean hand closed upon mine with a -hearty grip. Then he took the bridle of his mare from Snake and vaulted -lightly into the saddle. In a moment he and his servant had disappeared -around the corner of the street.</p> - -<p>I wended my way to the house where Will and I were stopping and made -ready for our journey.</p> - -<p>The next day about dusk we landed at the Hall.</p> - -<p>Of course it is needless for me to say much about our welcome, but my -poor mother's joy at seeing us again was nothing to her sorrow when Will -had told the painful details of my affair with Harrison. After<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span> Miss -Carter heard the details of the fight she appeared to regard me with -secret horror for a few days, but then I knew all women were much set -against violence.</p> - -<p>"But where is Mary now?" my mother asked of Will, after she had regained -herself.</p> - -<p>"Nothing could induce her to remain in sight of Dick," said Will, "so -she sailed for England on one of Dunmore's vessels the day we entered -Norfolk." And that was the last time I ever heard him mention my -sister's name for years.</p> - -<p>Rose was not a very joyous bride a couple of weeks later, but her -tenderness and thoughtfulness made up for the lack of passionate love, -which I felt sure she would<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> develop as the years went by, and the -memory of Harrison faded from her mind.</p> - -<p>One day, about a month after we were married, I went to the stables to -see about my horses getting their salt properly. As I stood at the -stable window, looking out towards the slave quarters, I saw Will Byrd -standing at the curve of the carriage drive, gazing steadily at a slave -woman who held a shining black pickaninny in her arms. The slave woman -sat under a tree and dangled some plaything over the child's face and -crooned to it. The day was cold, and I thought it strange that the woman -should sit there with the child, even though the little thing was -carefully wrapped up in a shawl.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span></p><p>Will was evidently to my way of thinking, for he gazed steadily at the -child, and that strange look of deep sadness came over his face like I -had noticed before in the hospital at Norfolk. Then he turned and walked -slowly away, with his eyes cast upon the ground in front of him. Rose, -who always looks after the people, then came out of the house and went -straight toward the slave woman. She was evidently much upset at her -carelessness in exposing the child so long to the weather, for she bent -tenderly over it and kissed it, and then sent the woman away.</p> - -<p>Ten minutes later, while I was walking through the grounds, attending to -some necessary repairs, I saw the woman again,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span> sitting now on the low -stone fence that separated mine from the now deserted Harrison -plantation. I walked up to her and reproved her sharply for keeping a -year old child out so long in such cold weather.</p> - -<p>"What is its name?" I asked.</p> - -<p>"Marse Berk Harrison," she answered.</p> - -<p>"Let me see him," I said, and I took hold of the child's arm to see if -he was good and fat. It was a common practice to name slave children -after the families to whom they belonged. Then I pinched the child's fat -cheeks and a lot of black stuff, like burnt cork, came off on my hand, -showing a white skin beneath it.</p> - -<p>"Is he white?" I asked in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, Marse Judkins, he's white, but<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span> we keeps him black, 'cause I -has to take him so much with me to the quarters at the Hall."</p> - -<p>"Who is his mother?"</p> - -<p>"'Deed I don't know, Marse Judkins. Poor Miss Jude Berry over to the -forks, I believe, but she's daid now this year gone—no two, last -month—but her folks give him to me to raise, 'cause I lives at his -uncles, an' they tole me to keep him black till he able to shift for -hisself."</p> - -<p>"Don't bring him to my quarters again," I said, and I handed her two -pieces of gold. That is all. Perhaps it is enough. The whole horrible -truth dawned upon me and I staggered away.</p> - -<p>A week later Will insisted that he had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span> stayed out his visit at the -Hall, and would join the army for the campaign against the British on -Long Island, near New York. The same day Major Bullbeggor sent me an -express that he would stop at the Hall and get Will and myself to help -organize a company for Washington's army. He and Barron rode in a little -later, accompanied by Snake in the Grass. The Major's face was most -peculiarity marked and tattooed by the explosion of the grenadier's -musket at the Great Bridge fight, and my mother hardly recognized him.</p> - -<p>We made our preparations for departure within a few hours, and, -accompanied by Sam and Snake, rode away from the Hall.</p> - -<p>All the field hands were grouped at the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> end of the carriage drive to -wish us good-bye, while my sweet wife Rose and poor mother stood on the -verandah and bade us a tearful farewell. God knows how my heart went out -to that dear wife, as I saw her standing there with the sunshine playing -on her hair and her eyes moist. But she smiled bravely and waved her -handkerchief to us, and Snake nodded furiously in return until we rode -slowly out of sight.</p> - - -<p> </p> -<hr /> -<p> </p> - -<div class = "mynote"><p class="center">Transcriber's Note:<br /><br /> -Obvious typographic errors have been corrected.<br /><br /> -A Table of Contents has been added.<br /></p></div> - -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<hr class="full" /> -<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING***</p> -<p>******* This file should be named 55832-h.htm or 55832-h.zip *******</p> -<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br /> -<a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/5/5/8/3/55832">http://www.gutenberg.org/5/5/8/3/55832</a></p> -<p> -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed.</p> - -<p>Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition.</p> - -<p>Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org</p> - -<p>This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.</p> - -</body> -</html> - diff --git a/old/55832-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/55832-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 3732b07..0000000 --- a/old/55832-h/images/cover.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/55832-h/images/logo.jpg b/old/55832-h/images/logo.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 1b740be..0000000 --- a/old/55832-h/images/logo.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/55832.txt b/old/55832.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cd5fcdb..0000000 --- a/old/55832.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,3962 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook, Richard Judkins' Wooing, by T. Jenkins -(Thornton Jenkins) Hains - - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - - -Title: Richard Judkins' Wooing - A Tale of Virginia in the Revolution - - -Author: T. Jenkins (Thornton Jenkins) Hains - - - -Release Date: October 28, 2017 [eBook #55832] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) - - -***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING*** - - -E-text prepared by Martin Pettit and the Online Distributed Proofreading -Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images generously made available by -Internet Archive (https://archive.org) - - - -Note: Images of the original pages are available through - Internet Archive. See - https://archive.org/details/richardjudkinswoo00hainiala - - - - - -RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING - -A Tale of Virginia in the Revolution - -by - -T. JENKINS HAINS - -(Author of "Captain Gore," etc.) - - - - - - -[Illustration: Logo] - -F. Tennyson Neely -New York and London -1898 - -Copyright, 1898. -By -T. Jenkins Hains. - - - - -Richard Judkins' Wooing - - - - -CHAPTER I - - -I was sitting in an arm chair with my feet upon the hand rail of the -verandah--very much at my ease--when Major Bullbeggor rode around the -bend of the turnpike and came into view. - -I watched him lazily and noted the action of his mare's hind feet as she -threw little jets of dust off to either side. The jets mingled together -and formed a yellow cloud in the rear, through which could be seen the -grinning teeth of Snake in the Grass, the Major's nigger, who always -acted as his body-servant. Snake was mounted ungracefully upon an old -spavined clay bank, and he came loping along some three or four fathoms -behind his master. - -The sky was cloudless and the warm sunshine appeared to annoy the Major. - -I was so comfortable, sitting there with the buzzards soaring in silent -circles overhead and listening to the small birds singing in the -shrubbery on the lawn, that I had just made up my mind to hail the -horseman and ask him to accept the hospitalities of Judkins' Hall--and -all who have been anywhere in the state know the reputation of my -house--when the single-footing mare turned sharply from the main road -and came loping up the carriage drive toward me. - -I might as well tell you now, that the Judkinses were never of a nervous -or excitable temperament. Even the first Richard Judkins, Earl of -Belldon, and viscount Ansley, was noted for his cool and calculating -disposition. But if you think I am overstepping the bounds of courtesy -by dwelling too much upon the characteristics of my family, I will say -that I only do so for fear someone may hear this who is a stranger in -the colonies, and who might, therefore, get a wrong impression of the -manners bred in and taught to a Virginia gentleman. - -As I said before, I am not nervous; so I sat calmly watching the Major -and his servant until they halted within ten feet of the soles of my -shoes. - -"Good morning, Major!" I cried, "How are you to-day? Jump down and come -in!" And with that I took down my feet and rose to greet him. - -The Major's face seldom relaxed its grave expression, although he had a -sympathetic eye, but this day he looked more stern and military than -ever. His dress added to this effect, for he now appeared for the first -time in the uniform of Woodford's irregulars, with a long, straight -sword dangling from his broad belt. - -He stroked his pointed, tuft-like beard which hung from the end of his -chin, and twirled his long, grey moustaches, while his eyes looked from -one object to another as if searching for something. Then he saluted, -saying, "Is there a Prince George county nigger about here, Mr. -Judkins?" - -Snake in the Grass bent forward in his saddle, and I noticed a thin, -rod-like contrivance rise from the back of his coat collar and lift off -his hat, replacing it again the instant he sat up straight. - -"Yes, sir, there is. Here, Sam!" I cried, and my boy stepped out from -behind a corner of the house and stood attention. - -"If there is," continued the Major, "he can hold my horse a few moments -while Snake, there, takes up my left stirrup a hole or two. It is an -outrage the way some saddles are built, and I'm certain this one will -be the death of me yet. It has already given me trouble in my left knee -joint." - -I gave a look at Sam who sprang to the Major's bridle--and I might say -here, that for an all-around good nigger, my boy Sam was hard to beat. -He stood six feet one inch on a pair of ham like feet and weighed two -hundred weight. He was a black, big-limbed, bullet-headed, broad-faced, -hog-nosed nigger of the pure Guinea breed, and he came from the best -stock in Prince George's--but that goes without saying, for the Major -would rather have seen his favorite mare struck with a whip than in care -of any other but a Prince George nigger. - -"Well, sir, how do you feel, and what is the news to-day?" I asked, as -I stepped down from the verandah and shook his hand when he had -dismounted. - -It was always the custom to ask Major Bullbeggor how he felt, for -although he was only fifty, or but little over twice my age, he always -appeared to be suffering very much. - -"I feel a little better than I did last week," he answered, "but I have -some pains shooting all through me, sir. Yes, sir, a pain, now and then, -a shooting all through me. I've been taking Miranda Jones' spring -medicine, but it don't seem to do me much good. I'm quite certain -there's a settling in my joints, coupled with a numbing of the nerves -and twitching of the scalp. Dr. McGuire bled me twice last week and -drenched me three times--but no matter, a soldier has no time to devote -to talking about his physical sufferings, even if they are unwarranted. -News I have, unless you have seen Roger Booker to speak to while he was -riding an express to the assembly at Richmond." - -"No!" I answered, "I've not seen Booker since last May, when he went -with you to help organize some of the colonial companies. But what has -happened? No more of that rioting and massacre like the affair of -Concord and Lexington, I hope?" - -The Major walked slowly up the steps and seated himself comfortably in -the arm-chair I had just occupied, and then waited patiently until I -drew up a chair and was seated. I saw he had some important news, but, -of course, was not discourteous in my haste to find it out. The Major -had served through the entire French war with Colonel George Washington, -and was a man of the most pronounced military method in all things. It -would have been showing a gross disregard for his training had I even -suggested that he should hurry and tell me what was uppermost in his -mind, before he had thought carefully upon the proper manner and time -for doing so. For himself, he was most punctilious, at all times, in his -manner and address to gentlemen of his own rank and station. He was -sometimes truculent of speech, but he even went so far into the matter -of politeness and good breeding that when his trusty body servant, -Snake in the Grass--he always had a humorous way of naming his -people--forgot to bow properly and remove his hat on one or two -occasions, he had the rod-like contrivance rigged upon the slave's back -which lifted and replaced his hat as I have described. The idea that -Snake was a lazy, shiftless nigger, never entered the Major's head. -Snake may have been a good servant, but for my part, I've always stuck -to the old method of training one's people and have seen more than one -Prince George county nigger all the better for a little dressing with a -small hickory switch; especially when extenuating his circumstances. - -My cousin, Will Byrd, who was a few years my senior, came out of the -house on hearing us talking, and, after greeting the Major, had a small -table brought within easy reach. Upon this was placed a bottle of -brandy, some sugar, ice and sprigs of young mint. - -The Major sat there silently stroking his beard while Will mixed the -beverage, nor did he even offer my cousin a suggestion, knowing well the -mixture that had been famous in Judkins' Hall ever since the days my -grandfather and Lord George Fairfax honored its roof. - -But because we held our English ancestry dear, and observed their -customs, don't think that we were rank tories. - -Will and I had both been friends of Lord Dunmore, before he started his -aggressive policy, but since then we had had little to do with him. We -also held aloof from the too radical followers of Mr. Patrick Henry. -That is, from all except Major Bullbeggor. The Major had been my -father's friend, and since his death had always been a welcome visitor -at the Hall, even though he had helped to raise a company sent to -Boston, and had joined Colonel Woodford's militia. - -Berkley Harrison and Captain Barron were in the breakfast room talking -to my mother and sister. They had just finished lunch. Harrison was an -outspoken tory who lived upon the adjoining plantation, and who, though -only thirty years of age, was one of the richest planters on the James -river. My mother had a high regard for his many accomplishments, for he -had lived much in England, and had the bearing of a man who had seen -something of the life at His Majesty's court. - -Therefore Will and I were anxious to hear what important news the Major -had to tell before anyone else joined us, for we were afraid lest his -radical views should reach the ears of Mr. Harrison. - -When the Major put down his glass he looked at us, and it was strange to -note the effects of the liquor in the old soldier's face. Every line, -from the heavy creases about his square jaw to the fan-like wrinkles -that stretched away from the corners of his eyes, seemed to stand out -more clearly. His eyes brightened and he spoke with great feeling-- - -"Gage's men stormed the hill defenses at Boston last week, and carried -them by assault," he said. - -"The devil," said Will. - -"And then what happened?" I asked, jumping from my chair. - -"What could happen with a lot of yokels against regular troops, hey? -What could happen? But," he added, and his eyes fairly flashed, "our -boys made a fine stand, sir. Yes, sir, stood there on Bunker Hill 'till -the last dram of powder was burned, and the scoundrels were running in -and jabbing them with the bayonet. Yes, sir, by Gad, sir, they have the -making of the finest men in them that ever stood up to be killed." - -"I wish I had been there," said Will. - -"Wish thunder!" roared Bullbeggor, half rising from his chair. "What's -the use of wishing! Why don't you do something besides lying around here -and wishing. Holy thunder! If I was your age I would have been there in -the thick of it with our company of Prince George boys. Wish to -thunder!" And the old soldier reached for the bottle. - -"That is as may be," remarked Will, quietly, referring to the Major's -imaginary military movements. - -"Wish smoke and blazes!" growled the old fighter, putting down his empty -glass. "If it wasn't for this settling in the bones and numbing of the -joints, and having pains shooting all through me, to say nothing of a -vertigris in the head when I stoop over, I'd have gone up there with the -boys. As it is, I'll do what I can against that rascal Dunmore,--and -stay here with Woodford _toe_ do it." - -"But give us the details of the Boston fight," I urged. - -"That's all I know," he answered. "I met Booker riding an express to -Richmond, and he told me just what I've told you. I think you and Will -here would be welcome at Woodford's--if you don't want to go so far from -home--and he will give you enough fighting before the year is out. But -isn't that Berk Harrison's voice I hear? He's hand and glove with -Phripps and Dunmore, and, perhaps, he would not care to hear my -sentiments on the affairs of the day." - -"Old Captain Barron is in there with him," said Will, motioning with his -hand toward the room. "It's nearly two, so they ought to be through -breakfast and be out in a few minutes." - -"There isn't a better soldier than old Barron alive, although he places -too much value in the small sword and pistol--two worthless weapons for -real fighting--Ah!" - -At this instance the figure of Berk Harrison appeared, issuing from the -window of the breakfast room, which being cut level with the floor -within enabled anyone to walk out on the verandah. He was closely -followed by Captain Barron and my sister, Mary. Harrison was dressed -with his usual care, wearing a buff waistcoat and snowy ruffles. -Although he had slept in the Hall over night, he had not appeared in the -breakfast room until after I had finished my midday meal. He wore his -hair carefully queued, and his lean, smooth face, with its arched -eyebrows, aquiline nose, and thin, straight lips, bespoke the cynical -man of the world--and also of fierce passion. - -There was a hard glint in his eyes the instant they were directed toward -the Major, but the glance softened a little when he noticed me. - -"Good morning, Major Bullbeggor," he said, advancing toward the old -soldier, who rose to greet him. "How are you, sir, this morning?" - -"Pretty well, thank you, sir; yes, sir, pretty well, considering a -little settling of the bones I probably got by riding too long -yesterday--Ah! Good morning, Miss Judkins." And then he shook hands with -my sister and Barron. The Captain and he had served together and were -old friends. - -"Always well and hearty, Barron, eh?" he cried. - -"You see, Miss Judkins, the difference time makes with men. Here's -Barron sitting around all the time with the ladies as young as he was -twenty years ago, and just look at me--a perfect wreck, yes, Miss, a -perfect wreck. I shouldn't wonder if he began to think of getting -married next--if he only had a pension, eh." - -"My face ought to be worth a thousand a year to any woman," laughed -Barron, drawing up a chair, while Mary stepped down from the verandah to -pet the Major's mare and have a word with his strangely attired nigger, -Snake in the Grass. - -"Your face, indeed, ought to be worth that, Barry," continued the Major, -smiling at him thoughtfully, "but it is a question that might admit of -some diversity of opinion among women, in comparing it to the relative -value of affections." - -"It is strange that women should put such a value on such things as -affections," said Harrison, smiling at me, "but self esteem is to be -commended in the sex." - -Barron laughed heartily, as he always did when jokes were made at his -expense. He always laughed at, and took a light view of, everything, and -it was this that made him so popular with the young people, for he was, -physically, the ugliest man on the river. He refused to wear any hair -except his own, which consisted of two little red tufts just over his -ears. These latter stuck out from the sides of his head like a pair of -fans. His face was full, bronzed and rugged featured, and absolutely -hairless, and his mouth curled up at the corners in a perpetual smile. -His great, red nose was almost purple, and its color, he claimed, had -cost him much time and money to develop. He was short and stout, but -always wore the baggiest of brown homespun breeches. - -"Women are not the only persons who like comfort," said he, and the -Major, very thoughtfully, passed him the bottle. - -"No, no," he cried, motioning away the liquor, "I never drink at this -time of day, and very little now at all. Only a bracer or two when I -rise, then another before eating, along with two or three in the late -afternoon--and a couple before dinner--and--well, I'll take just one, if -you insist." - -"Its easy to see that Barron's heart lies in his stomach," said the -Major. "There's an old woman's saying that 'to win a man's esteem, you -must feed the brute.'" - -"And, likewise, to win a woman's, 'dress the animal,'" laughed Barron. - -"But what was the news, Major, from Boston? I thought I overheard you -say something about a fight," asked Harrison. - -"He did," said Will. "Gage's men carried Bunker Hill by assault, last -week. But he says the Virginia boys fought well and gave the reddies all -they wanted." - -"They did that, and Woodford's men will give Dunmore about the same, if -he doesn't bear a hand and leave," interrupted the Major sententiously. - -"You don't say!" laughed Barron, raising his glass. "Well, here's to the -army of Virginia, and may it reap much benefit from the Major and his -combination of Christian men." - -"And have reason to give thanks that they'll be in no worse condition -than that which they find themselves," muttered Harrison, putting down -his untouched glass. "They'll be damned lucky if they're not." - -"Oh, well, it is hardly necessary to be profane about it," said the -Major, quietly. - -Barron smacked his huge lips and smiled blandly, then murmured softly-- - - - "And when they pawned and damned their souls - They were but prisoners on paroles." - - -"An apt quotation," snapped Harrison ill-humoredly. - -"You don't look as if you were much given to poetry, especially -Butler's." - -"An angel is sometimes disguised as a devil," laughed Barron. - -"But never as a soldier," said Harrison, dryly. - -"Nor as a fop," growled Bullbeggor, "which the same might be said of -some people who dress to appear like gentlemen, but about whom there -might be some diversity of opinion among men." And he looked straight -before him. - -"Your wit is coarse, and if you mean that for me, I'll say you are -damned insolent," said Harrison with some energy. - -"Oh, hold on!" said Will. - -"The Major did not mean that for you," I said quietly, advancing toward -Harrison, who stood leaning against a pillar of the verandah. "He never -makes rude remarks to anyone," I continued, trying to pacify his rising -anger, "and he simply meant the _vice versa_ of Barron's jest." - -"I don't overstep the rules of politeness very often," said the Major, -slowly, "but I don't believe in fitting all cases to a set of rules. It -is better sometimes to make a rule to fit a case, such as this, for -instance. If Mr. Harrison thinks I made the remark for the purpose of -comparing him to an angel, he is most unaccountably satisfied with his -personal appearance and certainly flatters himself, but if so, he is -welcome, and be damned to him. I'll give him whatever redress he wishes -at any time. Only I'd rather take it out of his friend, Dunmore, if--" - -"Hold on, Major! You forget yourself," cried Will, placing a hand on his -shoulder. - -"I'll see that you make good your words to-morrow morning, old as you -are," said Harrison, now white to the lips with passion. And he walked -away and down the steps, meeting my sister Mary, who had just heard the -raised voices and had turned to see what had happened. - -"Why do you waste time talking to those old men," I heard her say as -they walked together down the path which led to the grove of live oaks -that separated the estates. But he appeared not to answer, so I knew -there was trouble ahead. - -"Harrison has horrible taste to get angry at such an old fellow as you," -laughed Barron. "Also a pretty clever opinion of his presence." - -"I am old, Barry, sure enough, but I can't abide a man who lives in a -country as a gentleman and then fights against it. I've got these pains -shooting all through me and considerable twitching of the skull, but -I'll meet him, sir; yes, sir, I'll meet him to-morrow morning if I'm -alive. I offer you my humblest apology, Mr. Judkins, for being party to -a scene on your verandah, but you heard what he said in regard to -soldiers, sir; yes sir, you heard what he said." And the Major reached -for the bottle, while I entered the house to leave again by a side door -and follow Harrison to do what I could to pacify him. - -Will Byrd was living with us, so I felt sure he would keep Barron and -the Major in good humor until I came back. - -Mary met me on the pathway leading to Harrison's. She had just left him -and was much upset at his temper. - -"I don't see why you have these old duffers come up here and make -trouble," she said. "Captain Barron is bad enough by himself, but when -that horrid old Major Bullbeggor and he get together, they just sit -around to drink and make trouble. It's only an hour's ride to his place -and I don't see why Sam can't help Snake take him home." - -"My dear sister," I said, "you know the traditions of Judkins' Hall. The -Major shall, therefore, always be a welcome visitor. He is a good -soldier, and the time will come--if it is not here already--when -Virginia will need just such men. We cannot put up with Dunmore's -violence any longer, and if Berk Harrison can't understand this the -sooner we see less of him, the better it will be for us all." - -"Good soldier! Huh!" she cried, with a pretty toss of her head. "If -Virginia depends on such men for soldiers, my lord Dunmore will soon -settle the disturbance. Good soldier, indeed! Why it was only last week -he and Captain Barron were sitting up drinking and telling their -abominable adventures, and they were anything but a soldier-like kind. -Poor Mrs. Bullbeggor overheard them and has threatened to get a divorce. -Snake said she had hysterics, and kept screaming that her husband was -fit for nothing but paying bills. Good soldier, indeed!" And Mary went -into the house with an air of indignation that would have done credit to -a queen--or a Judkins. - -I went over to Harrison's, but on the way I couldn't help wondering if -this power to pay bills, which Mary held in such high disdain in the -Major, was not just a little attractive in young Harrison. Women have -strange methods of reasoning out the proper way to look at things. - -Harrison declined to see me, at first, but after I had sat out two -cigars on his verandah, he appeared. - -He refused to listen to any peaceful overtures that I advanced, and I -wasted all the afternoon and evening trying to settle matters without a -meeting. His friend Phripps dined with him and afterwards left with a -formal challenge to the Major, requesting a meeting at sunrise the next -morning. I left Harrison at about nine in the evening, after an -uncomfortable meal, with the feeling that trouble was in store for the -Major. - -On reaching the Hall, I found dinner over and the Major and Barron in -bed. The Major had requested Barron to act for him and had accepted the -challenge. They had settled upon a spot down on the river shore, and all -who know the James will remember how flat and smooth the shore is at -this bend. - -The fact that there was to be a meeting had been kept secret from my -mother and sister, for even Mary did not think the last words she had -overheard meant anything dangerous, but, in spite of this, it was easy -to see that the house servants suspected something was wrong. - -My mother gave me a lecture about the advisibility of taking her advice, -and also how to treat the Major. She really liked the old soldier, in -spite of his eccentricities, but wished, also, to avoid offending -Harrison. I forget now just what the advice was, but, as a matter of -course, had I taken it, all must have ended well, for time and again -afterwards have I heard her affirm this--so also has she in regard to -other matters. - -I walked out on the cool lawn under the bright stars, and then around -the house, hoping to find Will who had stepped over to the stables. I -met him as he was coming back and together we walked around behind the -slave quarters, discussing the affair of the Major's and also the gloomy -outlook of war in the colonies. The news of Bunker Hill had affected -both of us greatly. As we passed an angle of the house we heard voices. - -"Is yo' sho' nuff a Prince Gawge nigger?" said one. - -"Dat I is, honey, sho'; an' I's de nigger uf er Prince Gawge man," -answered the other. - -"Kin he stan' agin Marse Berk?" - -"Doan make no moan, honey, dere'll be bluddy murder an' suddin demise in -der mawnin'." - - - - -CHAPTER II - - -Just before daybreak I was suddenly aroused by the violent movements of -the Major, who occupied a room next to mine. - -The bell-cord was pulled viciously for some moments, and this was -followed by hoarse exclamations. - -Finally someone answered the bell and knocked at the Major's door. - -A deep grunt followed and the door was partly opened. - -"Are yo' a Prince George nigger?" asked the Major, sleepily. - -"No sir!" - -"Then git out and send me one right away." - -The door closed, a short period of silence followed, which was suddenly -broken by more violent pulls at the bell cord. Then I thought I -recognized Sam's footsteps sounding softly along the hall, and the door -opened again. - -"Are yo' a Prince George nigger?" grunted the Major. - -"I is sir," came Sam's answer. - -"Then for the Lord's sake take a look around and tell me where I am at." - -"You'se right heah, Major. Right heah, sah." - -"I thought so," said the Major with a satisfied sigh, and as the door -closed again a long drawn snore told plainly that he had relapsed into -peaceful sleep. - -I was too much aroused, by this time, to sleep any more, so I lay awake -thinking of the possible dangerous outcome of the meeting that would -soon take place. - -Soon I heard footsteps again approaching along the corridor, and I was -then aware that Barron and Will Byrd were approaching the Major's room. -It was barely daylight, but I jumped up and dressed and made my way into -the room to join them. - -The Major was still undressed. He sat on the edge of the bed and -appeared so nervous that he could hardly put on his clothes. - -This amused Barron very much. - -"It's no use, Barry! you know the old saying about the dogs' hair being -good for his bite," said the Major, throwing down his clothes. "Gimme -some of the hair, and I'll see if this twitching of the bones and -numbing of the nerves don't hold off a bit. Lord! I didn't drink -anything last night to amount to anything. I was just a little tired out -riding over from Pendletons." - -Barron poured out a good, stiff drink of brandy, and the Major gulped it -down without winking. - -Then a most remarkable change came over the old fighter's grizzled -features. He jumped up, and in less time than it takes to tell of it, he -had his clothes on, and was just buckling on his sword belt, when Barron -stopped him. - -"Now, Bull, whoever heard of fighting a duel in such a rig," he cried. -"Take it off, man. Byrd has the tooth-picks for this work," and he -pointed to a couple of rapiers, wrapped carefully in cloth, that Will -carried under his arm. - -The Major looked from one to the other of us. - -"Fight a duel!" he cried in astonishment. "Who in the name of six sons -of Hayman is going to fight a duel?" and he forthwith strapped on his -sword-belt. - -Barron burst into a fit of laughter. "Never mind, come along with us. -But where on earth, Bull, did you think we were bound for at this hour -in the morning?" - -"Think!" roared Bullbeggor, "I know I'm going to ride to Williamsburg -and report to Colonel Woodford. Think thunder." - -Will looked a little disgusted, but said nothing, and I led the way -softly down the corridor and out the back way without awakening my -mother or sister. - -The Major looked about him with blinking, sheeny eyes for his mare. Not -seeing her, he started for the stables, calling out lustily for Snake in -the Grass. - -Barron seized him by the arm and stopped him. "Bull," he cried laughing, -"you've made an appointment to meet Harrison, and he is waiting to get a -clip from you down on the shore. Don't make any more racket, but come -along before you wake up the household." - -I must say, I was somewhat disgusted with the Major's behavior, so I -spoke out, telling him he would have to meet his man. - -"Meet him!" he bawled, turning on me fiercely. "Of course I'll meet -him." Then he turned toward the stable. "Snake!" he cried, as his nigger -appeared, "Get the mare ready, for I'll be through in a few minutes. -Lead the way, Mr. Judkins. Meet the devil!" - -I then led the way down to the river bank, just as the rising sun tipped -the tree tops with golden light. - -The shore in the bend was very flat and sandy, being overhung partly -with great, sweeping willows. As we neared the spot fixed upon we were -aware of the presence of Harrison and Phripps. They were standing under -a large tree and appeared to be much absorbed in conversation. - -As we approached them they turned about, and Phripps advanced, holding a -pair of small swords in one hand and a case containing pistols in the -other. - -Will and the Major stood aside and Phripps, Barron and myself proceeded -to arrange the details of the meeting. - -It was decided to fight the affair with swords, until one or the other -of the combatants was completely disabled, and I must say that Phripps -was fair enough in the matter. He measured the weapons and gave Barron -the choice, after which he took the one left and started toward -Harrison, who had strolled down on the river shore to where the sand -was hard and firm. - -I might say here, that I was not at all unfriendly toward Harrison, and -that I only took part in the affair after I had done everything in my -power to settle matters peaceably. It required nice discernment, in -those days, for a man to make up his mind whether he was a tory or not, -and it was more because I sympathized with the Major's political ideas, -than anything else, that I took any part in the matter at all. As it -was, I acted as I had acted several times before in such cases; that is, -as referee or judge, while Barron and Phripps were seconds to their -respective men. Will Byrd simply acted as a spectator. It was a perfect -spot for a meeting. The tall sweeping willows for a background on the -low bluff-like bank, and the water sparkling in the sunshine beyond the -shadow. The sand of the shore was firm and flat, and there was plenty of -room, as it was now nearly low water. I marked a spot and gave the -signal for the men to take their places. - -I introduced the Major to Phripps and bade Barron hand him his weapon -quickly to avoid unnecessary delay, for I knew his habits of inquiry. - -"Mr. Phripps, your mother was a Robinson, I believe, if I remember -correctly," said he, as Barron passed him the hilt and cast off his -sword belt. - -"I never met her as a girl," snapped Phripps, impatiently. - -"The more honor to her," replied the Major, quietly, as he flashed out -his heavy broadsword. "No fear," he continued, as Phripps reached -hastily for the pistol case, "I'll attend to you some other time. I have -to do with Dunmore's heel dog first." - -I took up a pistol and cocked back the flint. "You know the penalty, -Major. Take your place and weapon," I said. - -He looked steadily at me for a moment, his eyes gleaming with a strange -light. Then he answered: - -"This is a weapon I've used for some years past, Mr. Judkins, and it is -the only one I will use in this quarrel. If no one cares to meet me my -mare is waiting to carry me to more important matters. Take the devil!" -he growled deeper, "I'll take the stiffening out of somebody." - -"Don't disturb him on my account," spoke Harrison. "Let him use his -weapon and talk less. I make no objection to it at all. I am ready." And -he took his position. - -I looked at Phripps, but he nodded approval; so I gave the word to -begin. I heard Barron laugh out some remark at the Major's expense, as -the men stood on guard for an instant. Then the fight began. - -As I said before, I had already seen some sword play and indifferent -marksmanship on that beach, but this affair was most uncommon. - -The men were at it fiercely as the weapons fell across. Harrison, with -gleaming eyes and a sneer of contempt on his lips, thrust and lunged -past the broad blade of the Major's with cat like quickness. But to no -purpose. The Major, holding his heavy broadsword as lightly as a rapier -before him, with its scabbard held high in his left hand behind his back -to keep it from his knees, turned each attack by a slight, strong turn -of the wrist. His face was grave and calm, but as I watched him, the -gradual tightening of the muscles in his lean, bronzed jaws showed that -either the strain was beginning to tell on his wind, or else his temper -was rising rapidly. However, he refrained from attempting the stroke I -knew must soon be made, unless Harrison jabbed him. - -The morning was warm and soon the perspiration was pouring down the -faces of the men. Harrison eased up a moment to note his effect on the -Major, and seeing that he was keeping him in hand, pressed forward again -with vigor. - -Backward went the Major, giving ground slowly in a circle, while that -look of surprise I have seen on more than one man's face, when suddenly -confronted by grave danger, spread slowly over his streaming features. - -Harrison was getting white and waxy about the lips, and his breath came -in loud rasping gasps, but his eye was like the glint of steel as he -pressed fiercely on. - -I have never seen a better swordsman. His wrist began to tire, but he -instantly passed his hilt to his left hand and then came on harder than -ever. - -I looked at Barron and saw the smile go from his face as the Major -circled backward past him. The old soldier's left hand was holding his -scabbard lower and lower, until finally he dropped it entirely. Then -Harrison saw his time had come for the finish. - -Quick as thought he passed his hilt to his right hand again, for the -final thrust through the Major's wavering guard. - -Then happened the most uncommon thing about the whole affair. It was -done so quickly my eyes could hardly follow it, although I was standing -but a few paces away and looking directly at the men. - -As Harrison passed his hilt to his right hand, the Major's weapon fell -to the right of him with his foot still advanced, and as Harrison lunged -strongly, the Major's broadsword rose and fell with a wicked "swish." - -Harrison's sword passed neatly through the Major's shoulder and -protruded fully a foot behind him, while the old soldier's weapon struck -Harrison fairly on the head and stretched him limp on the sand. The -heavy blade had struck close to the hilt, as he had lunged forward, -otherwise it must have bitten in as deep as the eyes. As it was the blow -was bad enough, and we rushed in to see what could be done for him. It -was several minutes, however, before he opened his eyes and showed any -signs of life. - -While we worked to stanch Harrison's wound and revive him, the Major -walked off a short distance and sat himself on the edge of the low, -bluff-like bank beneath a willow. He then carefully stripped off his new -uniform before Barron or Byrd thought of leaving Harrison to come to his -assistance, tied up the rapier thrust, and prepared to move along in the -direction of the Hall with his sword belt slung carelessly over his arm. - -When Harrison's wandering gaze met him his strength came back suddenly, -and it was all Barron and I could do to hold him in check. He insisted -that he should continue the engagement and Byrd's outspoken objections -only inflamed him the more. - -The Major suddenly glanced back and saw what had happened, so he halted -while Phripps ran toward him. - -"The affair is not quite over, if you please, sir," said Phripps as he -approached. - -"Isn't, eh!" grunted Bullbeggor, drawing his sword and throwing the -scabbard aside. "Then if you can prove that your gentility consists in -something more than a love for horses and dogs--and women, you can get -your hand to some weapon." And with that he came quickly forward. - -"After Mr. Harrison has finished with you, we can go further into the -matter with some advantage," said the second, motioning with his hand -towards his principal. - -But Harrison's strength was unequal to the occasion. He no sooner stood -alone than he wavered, staggered, and then pitched forward on his face -in a dead faint. Phripps quickly ran to him and raised his head while I -poured some brandy between his lips. - -The Major stood silent and motionless before the group, his sword point -resting upon the toe of his boot and his hands crossed over the hilt. A -strangely grave and thoughtful expression shone on his rugged face, now -perfectly calm from the heat and excitement of the fray; and as I -watched him he appeared to me a poor duellist, and a man to whom self -was not the all important realization in life. - -I went toward him and held out my hand. He took it in an absent minded -way and turned at the sound of approaching footsteps behind him. I -looked over his shoulder just as Snake broke through the fringe of -willows, leading the Major's mare by the bridle. - -"I suppose he isn't hurt badly, Mr. Judkins," said Bullbeggor, looking -at his limp adversary. "But even if he is, I don't believe I can do much -for him. I thank you, sir, for your hospitality and fairness. I must go -along now, for I'm due at Williamsburg before night." - -"You certainly will come back to the Hall and let us fix you up a -little, Major. You certainly must feel a little shaken from that -puncture. It may be more dangerous than you believe," I said. - -"Not at all, sir. Not at all. I have had Dr. McGuire bleed me twice as -much in the last month. I do feel a slight twitching of the bones and a -sort of dead feeling in the nerves, but besides a few pains shooting in -and out, I'm all right. Then there is Pendleton's tavern at the -cross-roads a mile beyond the bend, and you remember the old rake keeps -good bottled stuff. No fear, I'll be all right. But I will take a small -drink with you, Barron and Byrd, just to show there's no hard feeling." - -Harrison had begun to show signs of returning consciousness, so Barron -and Will left his side and came forward a pace or two. The flask was -passed around and then, in spite of Barron's protests to the contrary, -the Major insisted on carrying out his plans as he had already intended. -He buckled on his sword belt and mounted his powerful mare, while Snake -plunged into the bushes and reappeared a moment later mounted and ready -to follow his master. His black face was showing in marked contrast to -the white gleam of his huge mouthful of teeth, and it was evident that -he had viewed the fight from some unseen point on the river shore and -was well pleased with the result. - -We raised Harrison and carried him in the direction of the Hall. In a -few minutes he revived and looked about him for the Major. Not seeing -him, he insisted on walking the remaining distance to the house on foot -and we finally allowed him to attempt it. - -Just as we crossed the road, opposite the driveway, I saw Snake in the -distance turn sharply in his saddle as we came into view. Then, through -the dust cloud that almost instantly swallowed him up, I noticed his -head bend outwards and his white cap rise and fall in an ungraceful bow. - - - - -CHAPTER III - - -The second day after this meeting we were at breakfast, sitting somewhat -stiffly at the table, when my boy Sam, whom Mary had just sent over to -Harrison's to find out how he did, brought a note in answer, saying that -he had almost entirely recovered and hoped to have the pleasure of -meeting her that morning. Barron and Will were still staying at the Hall -and we had all been somewhat reserved in manner in spite of the old -Captain's jests. Although there had been no serious outcome to the -affair, a meeting of that kind, no matter how common the occurrence, -always makes women a little distant and cold in manner to the parties -concerned. This is possibly because a woman is somewhat more civilized -than man, and anything that savors of brutality or fierceness, always is -more revolting to her than to the less artificial being. - -I have said the occurrence of such affairs was common enough in the old -days, before the practice of putting grooves in pistols and making them -as accurate as rifles to a steady hand, became general. After that men -became more careful about abusing the code and getting into scrapes, for -the pistol has always been recognized as a weapon for gentlemen in -Virginia. But I must confess, however, that meetings have always been -numerous enough, and for the most trivial causes, on the soil of the -grand old commonwealth. - -After Mary had read the note from Harrison she became much more civil -to Barron, and even my mother's stern dignity thawed a little under the -prospect of a renewal of social intercourse with the master of the -Harrison plantation. - -Mary was only nineteen, and although southern girls are women of that -age, she possessed a great deal of that childlike simplicity, which is, -or is not, so acceptable to the majority of men. For my part, however, I -have always been ungallant enough to believe that a woman affects much. - -Will had been devotion itself for two years past at Judkins' Hall, for -he lived only a few miles away near his family's old country seat at -Westover, and consequently found it quite easy to see the inmates of -the Hall several times a week even when living at home. He was my -favorite cousin, and it was almost painful to see his spirits as much -affected by my sister's as a barometer is by the weather. - -"Why don't you say something," she said to him, after reading the note -and watching the quiet, grave look on his face. - -"What shall I say?" he answered, smiling with her, "I'm here to talk to -you." And in truth he did appear to be always around for that purpose, -but never able to raise his voice to the occasion. - -"I don't know whether you are or not. I've been reading about a man who -carried on an affair simply by whistling. But even that would hardly -apply to you after taking part in that duel. You certainly would hardly -care even to whistle to me, or you would not have gone with them. -Perhaps you are here to eat and fight." - -"You invited me to breakfast." - -"Yes, but that does not presuppose you are too hungry to speak. Perhaps -you think I asked you here to see you fight, and then satisfy your -hunger. You don't know why I asked you here. If you are here to talk to -me, do say something. Why did I ask you here to breakfast?" - -"Words are sometimes used to convey ideas," I suggested, trying to help -Will along, for I well knew how little women care for a man who can't -say something light and foolish at the right time. - -"Or to conceal them," said Barron, breaking in with his old saw. - -"But where the ideas are vague and not quite well defined, what then?" -asked Mary, with a knowing look at her mother. - -"Then I don't see how they can be of any value, whatever, and I don't -see how I'll ever find out the true reason for my being here, though I'd -much like to know," said Will. - -"Quite right, Will," said my mother smiling, "I don't care for vague -ideas either--or to hear a man and woman in worthless gibble-gabble, -gibble-gabble. If there is a dearth of ideas, one reason is as good as -another." - -"I admire silence, also," laughed Barron, "for there is an old saying -in regard to its value. But at the same time, give me plenty of plans, -schemes and feasibilities." - -"I like the latter well enough myself," said Will, so dolefully that we -all were forced to smile, and my charming sister laughed outright, -saying-- - -"Certainly Captain Barrow's conversation is not lacking of ideas, but -then he is a blunt man, and plain, so it is hardly to be expected that -he should conceal such scintillating wit"-- - -"Blunt man,--and soldier, if you please," interrupted Barron, with -intense gravity, seeing his chance to heal the rupture between himself -and Mary. - -"I may add, 'and soldier,' when I see some evidence to justify it," -retorted my sister with a little energy. But Barron only laughed and we -finally adjourned to the verandah in a more civil mood than when we sat -down to breakfast. - -The air is delightful on the river at this time of year of which I -speak, and, as you probably well know, has a soothing effect on the -nerves, for it is not at all cool, nor is it hot enough to excite the -circulation. - -We sat there in the delicious, fragrant breeze for some minutes before -we were aware of the approach of Berkley Harrison, Phripps and Miss Rose -Carter, a cousin of Harrison's. - -Miss Carter had come over with her maid to nurse her cousin the moment -she had heard that he was hurt, and as Harrison lived alone, except -when some one like Phripps was with him, a woman would have been a good -person to have had at hand, had he been injured badly, or had my mother -and sister not spent most of their time attending to his wants. - -I suppose I might as well say, before going further, that although I am -only a poor Virginia gentleman who has nothing but his--well, estate and -inheritance--I had some hope of raising myself to a position from which -I might allow my gentler passions to have some sway. - -You will understand what I mean when I tell you that for beauty of face -and figure, coupled with a grace beyond description, Miss Carter -was--well, I will not tire you with details that are so well known. And -then, again, a woman's beauty depends entirely upon her attractiveness -to a man, and some men will see beauty in one way and some in another; -never all alike. Why, I have seen the niggers in the slave quarters let -Harrison's house servant, Angeline,--a yellow girl of remarkable -beauty,--pass by unnoticed and then, ten minutes later, be peeping and -spying at the blackest moke wench that ever left the Guinea coast. - -Harrison's greeting, this morning, was a trifle cool to Barron and -myself, and his appearance was not improved by the sinister look of his -shining black eyes. These were somewhat sunken in his pale cheeks and -had dark crescents beneath them. His head was bandaged, but a skull cap -covered all signs of his wound. To Will Byrd and my sister he was most -gracious, and he even bent his wounded head to kiss the tips of my -mother's thin fingers. - -"You see," he said, after Miss Carter and Phripps had made their -greeting, "I took the opportunity to come over to tell you that Lord -Dunmore has sent word that he fears great trouble in the tide-water -districts, and that all the gentlemen of the province were making ready -to embark on his vessels and leave with their families until the -insurrection is more in hand." - -"And when will that be?" asked my mother in some alarm. - -"Oh, only a few weeks, at the most," said Phripps, breaking into the -conversation. - -"Yes, about that time," continued Harrison, "but you know how fanatical -such men as Bullet and Bullbeggor are. It's really absurd how much -influence that beggar, Patrick Henry, has over such ignorant men. The -man has about as much logic in his discourse as a nigger has in his, but -he sways his followers any way he wishes, and is gaining recruits every -day. I suppose you know how illiterate the fellow is?" - -"And how rough and ill-bred," said Miss Carter. - -"An ill-favored rogue and no mistake," said Phripps. - -"Odious men--vulgar ruffians, all of them," said Miss Carter and Mary -together. - -"So you say!" murmured Barron, pleasantly. - -"And their followers are a pack of unhung thieves," added Harrison -fiercely. "No house is safe while they roam the outlying counties"---- - -"Mercy!" quietly interrupted my mother, who felt very kindly toward the -revolutionists, "One would actually suppose, Mr. Harrison, that you were -quite unfriendly with the whole party." - -And when she finished speaking I could see Harrison's eyes fairly blaze -with anger. He was very quiet, however, for some moments, and then -adding that it would be well to be packed and ready to embark with Lord -Dunmore when he arrived, he turned to my sister and talked of other -matters. - -Barron waxed flippant and jolly while talking to Phripps, so when -everybody was in good humor I took the opportunity to ask Miss Carter to -help me hunt thistles--for my mother. - -We walked some distance through the fields, and found few thistles, but -among other matters discussed were certain characteristics of Mr. -Berkley Harrison. - -"The most accomplished and perfect gentleman in the province," said -Rose. - -"But, my dear Rose, he is so uncommon vain"-- - -"By which, I suppose, you mean simply that he has a decent opinion of -himself, owing to his birth and position," she interrupted. "A man who -hasn't a proper opinion of himself, seldom has one of any of his friends -or acquaintances." - -"Quite true," I answered, "but"-- - -"Do you really object to him so much?" she broke in. And as she smiled -and blushed slightly I followed the direction of her look and saw Mary -and Harrison standing together at the corner of the box-hedge of the -driveway. - -"You could hardly expect a gentleman of cousin Berk's antecedents to -agree with the absurd ideas of government you pretend to," she -continued. - -"The matter is possibly open to discussion," I answered a little -stiffly. - -"Oh, no offence, my dear Dick. You know the laws of human nature as -well as I do. Those who are governed and have little are always -antagonistic to those who govern and have much, no matter how perfect -that government is." - -"Yes, I know," I answered, "there is no such thing as justice in this -world. Even the Bible, most holy of records, disclaims it, saying, that -those who have little shall have that little taken from them and given -to those who have much. At least that is what I make of it, but even if -there should be a small minority to govern and grind a large majority, -the majority should have its representatives to see that no unjust"-- - -"Nonsense!" she interrupted, "Those who represented it would soon -acquire the same habits and tendency as the minority, without even the -leavening of high birth and education the minority already have. There -are some people born with high ideas who are intended by Providence to -govern always. They are superior in feeling--but hush! What is cousin -Berk doing?" - -We were now close to where Harrison and Mary were standing, and I -noticed that he peered cautiously over the hedge at some object that lay -on the other side in the sunshine. We turned the angle of the drive way -and as we did so I saw my boy, Sam, lying at full length upon the grass, -looking quietly up into Harrison's face with an expression of curious -interest showing upon his black features. - -"Are you busy, Sam?" asked Harrison softly, not noticing my approach. - -"Yessah," replied Sam without moving. - -"Eh! What?" and I saw him grasp his cane firmly in his hand behind his -back. - -"Yessah," continued Sam, "I'se been lying here fo' quite a spell, sah, -listenin' to my heart beatin'." - -"So, so," said Harrison quietly, measuring his distance. Then he flashed -out--"You infernal, impudent nigger!" And he smote Sam a crack over the -head that brought him to his feet with a wicked look in his eyes. - -"Superior feeling!" I muttered angrily, and I saw Miss Carter blush. -Then stepping further out into view I caught Sam's eye in time to avert -further trouble, for he had never been handled before by anyone--except, -perhaps, myself. - -"Go to the quarters, Sam," I cried, and as I did so I saw Harrison start -at the sound of my voice and notice me. - -I would have given something to have seen what Sam intended to do after -that look,--for he was a big, black, powerful, hog-nosed nigger, capable -of some little mischief--but the ladies being present, such intentions -were, of course, impossible. Sam obeyed me instantly and went quickly -toward the stables with his broad shoulders well squared and his head -up, and Harrison continued on his way with my charming sister upon his -arm. - -"I suppose," I said, looking askance at Miss Carter, "this is the -superior feeling of the governing class which we have just witnessed?" - -"What would that black boy have done?" she said, in alarm. "I saw the -look in his eyes that certainly meant more than disobedience." - -"Oh, Sam is a true and trained Christian," I answered, somewhat nettled -at the scene. "I taught him the doctrine of forbearance myself and I -have seen him practice it to some advantage." - -"And what was that?" asked Rose, sweetly, looking up at me with her -lovely violet eyes that still showed traces of her alarm. - -"Well, the last overseer I had was a man of superior feeling who -belonged to the governing class--and he started to govern accordingly. -He smote Sam savagely upon the side of his bullet head, one day, and -knocked him down. Sam jumped up and rose to his full height, offering -the other side of his head without so much as a word. The fellow, John -Smith, struck him again, like a fool, and stretched Sam senseless for -half an hour." - -"And then?" - -"Oh, then Sam came to, and as soon as he could stand, he drew his corn -knife and it was all we could do to keep him from killing that overseer. -As it was, he got so badly cut that he would never come back again to -the Hall." - -I saw Miss Carter pale slightly. - -"Are many of your people so brutal and blood-thirsty?" she asked. - -"Sam is neither one nor the other, but as good a boy as ever followed a -gentleman"-- - -"For revenge, do you mean? If that is so, I think the sooner I tell -Berk--Mr. Harrison, the better." - -"Oh, Lord, no," I cried, "I mean as a servant. Even Major Bullbeggor -allows him the privilege of serving him, and you know how particular he -is. But why so anxious about Berk Harrison's welfare?" - -"I am his cousin," answered Miss Carter, stiffly. - -The tone of her voice was enough. But Heavens! A man must take his -strokes, mental or physical, without too much wincing. As for me, I -like the man who can meet them with a smile on his lips and talk in a -steady, natural voice while his heart stops beating and the iron grip of -sorrow holds his throat like a vice. The tone of Rose Carter's voice, -that day, told me something in regard to cousinly feeling. But no -matter. Our greatest sorrows are not nearly so heavy some years -afterwards and-- - -As I said, I felt a sensation, similar I now believe, to that which a -few others have felt before. But a man in love is never a -philosopher--and he is generally hasty and selfish. - -"I congratulate you, my dear Rose, on your relationship," I said -coldly, and the blood rushed through her face and left it whiter than -before. - -"Do you know, my dear Dick, you sometimes bore me most stupidly?" she -answered. And this commonplace incident ended. - -Commonplace it was indeed, but what it meant to certain affairs which -happened afterward, you may judge, if you care to listen. It is the -little commonplace affairs that influence the lives of most people, as -anyone may remember who cares to look at the past. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - - -Dunmore failed to appear the next day, and Harrison came over to the -Hall and had the pleasure of the company of both Mary and his cousin to -beguile him. - -Will and I, accompanied by Barron, whom we persuaded to join us as a -sort of spirit raiser, took our fowling pieces, a pair of good dogs and -Sam, and sought distraction in the covers below the bend. It is -astonishing how sympathetic young men of good antecedents will become -under certain circumstances. I always liked my cousin Will, and it -seemed to me now that my sister was cruel, and he a much abused friend, -since Miss Carter and I had had a sort of understanding between us. But -no matter, Will and I had always been drawn together, and our silent -companionship was very soothing and restful in spite of Barron's -incessant story telling and irrational humor. - -The old soldier had followed around all day without so much as firing -his piece, which he insisted on having Sam carry with the flints at full -cock--much to my boy's disgust. I had always taught Sam to be careful -with weapons, but Barron insisted on readiness above all things, and -would not allow the flints down. We had bagged several brace of fine -birds while he was engaged in other matters, and after seeing that Will -and I were having all the sport he wished to have his weapon ready but -still refused to carry it. Twice there had been premature explosions, -the last of which tore off the rim of the old soldier's hat, but, after -each discharge, he made Sam reload and proceeded on his way, tranquilly -spinning story after story in high good humor, and avoiding anything -that might ruffle the feelings of young men in--well, say in an uneasy, -or perhaps diseased state of mind. - -We tramped along all day, and late in the afternoon we were to the -eastward of the bend and making our way slowly through the heavy timber -towards the river in the lower reach. Will was slightly in advance of -the rest of us, and as he broke through the thick fringe of cover near -the river bank, he gave a sudden cry of astonishment and stopped. Sam -promptly caught the lock of Barron's gun in some undergrowth and -instantly exploded it, much to our annoyance, as it peppered my favorite -setter severely and sent him howling down the river shore with a dozen -or more small shot sunk deep in his hide. - -In a moment we cleared the pines, and the first thing that met our gaze -was the _Fowey_, frigate, close to the beach and standing up the river -with all her working canvas set and her guns run out ready for action. -Behind her came several smaller craft, apparently crowded with men and -guns. One glance at the ship told plainly who she was, and upon her high -poop strode a man fore and aft whom we had no difficulty in recognizing -as Lord Dunmore, His Majesty's Governor of Virginia. - -We were less than half a mile distant, but the shadow of the pines made -it much more difficult for those on board to see us, half concealed as -we were in the long grass and low bushes, than for us to see them. The -poor dog, however, howled dismally, and the report of the gun was -evidently mistaken for the discharge of a hostile rifle, for in a moment -a great cloud of white smoke burst from the frigate's broadside, and the -same instant the air seemed alive with grape-shot, while the jarring -report of a twenty pounder echoed along the shore. The balls tore with -a loud, ripping, rush through the pine tops and crashed through the -undergrowth. One of them striking the butt of Will's gun smashed it to -bits and knocked him endways into the woods. - -To say we were a little surprised at this reception would hardly -describe our feelings. I made a spring for cover and hugged a large tree -trunk as though a storm were breaking over me, and as I did so I heard -Sam give a yell and disappear as if the earth had swallowed him up. - -It was over in less time than it takes to tell of it, and I stepped out -to see Barron laughing heartily as he dragged Will to his feet. - -"They do make a most valuable noise," he laughed, "but there's little -harm in them. The devil! You were lucky in not getting that into -you--mere chance though." And he picked up Will's shattered gun. - -"If that's the reception Dunmore is going to give us, I think we might -as well keep on to Williamsburg and join Mr. Henry's men," said Will, -looking somewhat disturbed in mind. "I never had a high opinion of his -lordship's manners, but this is going it a little too far. I wish I had -my rifle, I would see if he would do a little jumping at the crack of -it. Here, Sam! Give me the Captain's gun and I will load with ball and -have a try at him." - -"Is it over, Marse Dick?" asked Sam's voice coolly from somewhere in -the thick bushes. - -"Come out, you black rascal!" cried Barron, and presently Sam emerged -from cover rapidly reloading Barron's weapon, at the same time keeping -an eye on the vessels as if expecting an attack. - -"Don't do anything foolish, Will," I said, as I saw his temper rising, -"It is a serious matter to fire on His Majesty's Governor. Besides, here -comes a boat from the first schooner to inquire into our affairs." - -While I spoke, the vessel close in the frigate's wake luffed sharply, -and as her headway slackened, a gig full of soldiers, pulled by four -stout niggers, shot away from her side and came rapidly towards us. - -Then the vessel tacked ship and stood slowly in after the boat, her -head sheets slacked off to stop her headway and the black muzzle of a -long twelve pounder sticking half a fathom clear of her forecastle rail. - -We stood in a group on the sand and awaited developments, supposing, of -course, that as soon as we were recognized the vessel would proceed on -her course in the wake of the frigate. - -Dunmore we all knew quite well, for he had been several times to the -Hall and had often visited Will Byrd's cousin at the magnificent estate -at Westover. - -As the boat load of soldiers neared the shore the schooner luffed again -within easy hailing distance, and a man standing by the forecastle gun -hailed us. - -"Throw down your arms, you dogs, or I'll blow you off the ground!" he -roared. - -"The devil!" exclaimed Barron, "I wonder if he means that for us? But -our dogs are not armed." - -"Bang!" went the long twelve pounder in a cloud of smoke, without -another moment's warning, and a shot whistled over the small boat and -struck the beach a few feet in front and to the right of us. A storm of -sand and gravel drove into our midst, staggering and blinding me so that -I fell against Will, who in turn fell to the ground, swearing furiously. - -A small particle had struck him with great violence in the eye, and in -his fury at this brutal onslaught he sprang to his feet, grabbed my gun -from my hands, before I had recovered sufficiently to stop him, and -fired a load of small shot slap into the boat full of men just as its -keel touched the sand. A perfect roar of curses followed, as the -soldiers received the scattering charge. Then Barron seized Will, and -just as several men leaped ashore with their guns raised to shoot, all -three of us were struggling on the ground. Sam, left alone to face the -loaded muskets, dropped Barron's gun and instantly disappeared with a -couple of musket balls snipping through the brushwood after him. The -next instant we were surrounded by men and dragged to our feet, while a -short, but big-limbed Irish sergeant stood near and gave orders to his -crew not to bayonet us. - -"Who are you, and where's the rest of you?" snapped a grizzled, -lean-faced officer, running up with his sword drawn and looking full at -Barron. - -"I am Jameson Barron, Esq., sir," said the Captain, smiling pleasantly, -"and as for the rest of me, I believe it is in Richmond. Dr. McGuire cut -it off the day after Braddock was killed and put it into a small flask -of alcohol." And he held up his left hand from which the last finger was -missing. - -"None of your jokes, sir," snapped the officer. "Where's the rest of -your party?" - -Barron looked about him. - -"Sam!" he called loudly. "Sam!" - -"I guess he's taken the track," he continued, quietly, "but must still -be within a mile of us. However, before we go too deeply into the case, -sir, you will oblige us greatly by stating your authority for firing -upon gentlemen who are in no way hostile to His Majesty." - -"Yes," I said, "I am Richard Judkins, of Judkins' Hall, sir, and am well -known to Lord Dunmore. By what right do you fire upon us while we are -simply out shooting for sport." Here I looked around for our bag and -ammunition flasks to prove the statement, if necessary; but Sam, who had -been carrying almost everything, had run into the bushes before dropping -his burdens, and they were out of sight. - -The ammunition left us was not of a character to corroborate my -statement to any degree of exactness. It consisted now of several musket -balls that Will had put in his pocket for use in case we had met larger -game. - -"Sport, eh!" snarled the officer, rubbing his shoulder where a shot had -penetrated the skin. "You'll see sport enough before we get through with -you. You may start on them, sergeant." - -He turned away abruptly on saying this, and, with half a dozen men -deployed as skirmishers, proceeded to examine the edges of the forest -for traces of a hidden foe. - -"So 'tis sport ye're afther, hey?" said the sergeant. "Give yourself no -oneasiness, ye'll see it fast enough. Rooney, me sowl, lay yer hand -tinderly on yer trigger, while I investigate the handsome old un, an' if -he so much as winks his ears, blow his tripes out, d'ye see?" - -Barron made no further comment, except to inquire of private Rooney what -particular part of his anatomy held the "tripes" alluded to by the -sergeant. - -"Hold yer tongue, ye handsome old man," said that officer. "My sowl, but -ye have a dacent figure av a soldier, despite the years av yer cocoanut. -Fancy him, boys, squinting wan av thim oies av his at a leddy," and he -ended with a hoarse chuckle, while he carefully went through Barron's -pockets. - -We were each examined in turn, but nothing of a hostile nature was -discovered, except Will's half dozen bullets. These, with our tobacco -and snuff boxes, were carefully tied up in a handkerchief and carried by -the sergeant to the boat. Our guns were also appropriated. - -The officer in charge returned presently from his search along the -shore, and having found nothing in the shape of a foe, he ordered all -hands into the boat. - -I protested with some energy against this high handed proceeding, but -was instantly seized by several soldiers while another stuck his bayonet -point half an inch into my back. Will was treated in the same manner, -and Barron, knowing resistance to be useless, set us the example by -walking quickly to the boat and climbing aboard. In a few minutes we -were on our way to the schooner. - -As we drew near, I noticed the vessel's peculiar rig. She appeared light -in the water, with long overhang fore and aft, and her masts raked -backwards to the last degree. Her spars were long and tapering, and new, -while her bulwarks appeared to have been built up to the height of a -frigate's, showing that she was evidently some fast vessel altered and -fitted up for the work Dunmore had planned on the river. Four ports cut -in her broadsides held the black muzzles of her battery of light -twelves, while on the forecastle was the pivot gun of heavier metal, -which had been discharged at us a few minutes before. Men swarmed on -her main deck and about her battery, while small knots stood with the -sheets in hand ready for further orders. - -The man who had hailed us from the forecastle, and had fired without -further warning, now stood at the starboard gangway, where a hanging -companionway trailed in the water. He wore a shabby uniform, such as I -had seen some of Dunmore's officers wear when doing their so-called -patrol duty on the river. He was short and stout, with a red face, his -shifty, fishy eyes looking like two little gray dots on either side of a -nose that much resembled a boil. - -As we drew alongside he bawled out orders, the men hauled flat the head -sheets, and instantly the schooner began to forge ahead. Some one threw -a line and a man in the boat caught it, making her fast at the -companionway, up which the officer in charge of us scrambled to the main -deck. We were quickly sent aboard, followed by the boat's crew, and were -lined up in the gangway between a file of soldiers, while the small boat -was dropped astern to tow in the vessel's wake. - - - - -CHAPTER V - - -We were slightly bewildered at the rapidity and novelty of the events -which were happening, and for some moments I stood and gazed at the -hurrying men, who appeared to obey a man with a shrill whistle whose -notes rose and fell with long undulations. No misunderstanding seemed -possible, for each note appeared to mean an order, which sounded high -above the rattle of the vessel's gear. I was something of a yachtsman, -and took great interest until aware of the presence of the stout man -with the red nose. He was in command of the schooner, and he now stood -before us, gazing at us as if we were wild animals of an unknown kind. -Two or three younger men in the group that gathered about us appeared to -be officers, but I had never met any of them before, so they joined -their captain in his curious gaze. Finally the Captain spoke. - -"Mr. Rose," he said, in a thick, raucous voice, "are these the men who -fired on us?" - -"Yes, sir," replied our thin faced captor, holding the handkerchief -containing our valuables in one hand, while he saluted with the other. - -"Then what d'ye mean by bringing them aboard this vessel, sir?" he -roared. "Haven't I told you, sir, to shoot every rebel caught with arms -on him? Hey! Answer me that, sir! Answer, or I'll break you sir!" - -"They claim to be gentlemen, Captain Cahill," said our captor, meekly. - -"Blast you! Do you mean to disobey me, sir? Answer my question, sir, or -by breechins and blackskin I'll break you sir!" roared the captain. - -"Yes, sir; yes, sir, you did," answered the lieutenant, quickly. "You -gave me orders to shoot every rebel caught in arms, who refused to -surrender. But these men claim to be gentlemen and not rebels. This -one," and he pointed to me, "claims to be a friend of Lord Dunmore's." - -"Claims!" roared the Captain, getting almost purple in the face, and it -really appeared as if he were going off in a fit. "Claims!" And then he -simply drew in breath for a moment to gather power to express himself. -Here was an opportunity, I thought, so I broke in-- - -"Yes, sir," I said, "I am well known to Lord Dunmore, and also to nearly -every gentleman on the river. I am Richard Judkins, of Judkins' Hall, -and I"-- - -"Shut up!" he roared. "Don't you speak to me sir. If you do I'll cut you -down where you stand." And he drew his sword. "You may be Richard -Perkins, of Perkins' Hell, or any other hell, but if Lord Dunmore knows -you he knows an unhung scoundrel. Don't glare at me, sir; don't glare at -me that way, or I'll cut you down where you stand," and he advanced a -step towards me. - -"I am a Virginia gentleman, sir, and I demand to be treated as such," I -said. - -"You are a liar and a villain," he roared, "and I will treat you as -such," and with that he made a pass at my head that would certainly have -finished me, had I not jumped suddenly backwards into the arms of a -soldier behind me. At the same instant Will Byrd sprang forward to ward -off the blow. - -He caught the skipper's sword arm with his right hand and instantly -dealt him a powerful blow just under the ear with his left. It sent the -man to the deck as limp as a rag, with his sword clattering after him. -The next instant Will was seized and thrown down and a line quickly -passed around him, lashing his arms to his sides. Then Barron and I were -served likewise. - -The Captain lay on the deck as if dead, so in a few moments he was -picked up and carried below to be nursed back to consciousness. In the -mean time the schooner had been standing up the river under all sail, -with the breeze abeam, and was rapidly nearing the frigate that was -sailing under easy canvas to allow her to catch up and report the news -of the affair on the shore. - -"Carry the prisoners below in the fore-hold," ordered Mr. Rose, who was -now in command, and we were quickly carried down through the forehatch -into a dark, ill-smelling hole filled with bunks and all sorts of ship -junk, and there we were left with a couple of men to guard us. - -I stretched myself comfortably on a coil of rope and awaited -developments, thinking, of course, that the instant Dunmore heard our -names we would be released. - -"It's no use, we are in for it," said Barron, smiling, "I only hope we -will catch up with the frigate before Captain Cahill recovers from that -tap. Very neatly done, Will, most remarkable--if it had been a trifle -further forward though it would have made a pretty mess of -things--Hello! What's that?" - -We were on the weather side of the schooner, and she was heeling over -and going through the water at a great rate. The rush of the waves was -quite loud and continuous against the vessel's side, but above the noise -I could hear a hail from somewhere in the distance to windward. Then -came an answer from the schooner's deck-- - -"Three men!" bawled Mr. Rose from somewhere above us. Then came another -hail. - -"Don't know," bawled the Lieutenant in reply. "One named Perkins, of -Perkins' hole." - -Then came another pause followed by another hail. - -"Two young--one old, with a face like the breech of a brass -carronnade--all alive and well--no one hurt." - -A pause. - -"Didn't suppose you knew them"-- - -Another pause. - -"Will not hurt them, sir"-- - -Then came a pause, followed by a hail I could just distinguish as the -vessels neared each other. - -"Keep them until his lordship has time to look into the matter," said -the voice faintly in the distance. - -"Aye, aye, sir," bawled Mr. Rose. - -"Hold on," I cried desperately, "tell him who we are and let us go -ashore. This outrage has gone far enough"-- - -"Kape quiet, ye gentleman, or I'll be for jabbing yez with me baynit," -growled private Rooney, and he held the point against my ribs. - -"It's no use," said Barron, smiling pleasantly, "we are in for some -sport. It's a wonder, though, that his lordship didn't recognize me from -that lieutenant's description"-- - -"Ef yez opin that ugly mug agin, afore the lootinant comes below, I'll -cut off yer elephant years and jam them into it," said the soldier, -Rooney. And then we kept quiet while the schooner drove steadily along -up the river. Sometimes she tacked around the bends and sometimes she -flew along with the wind fair, but before dark we knew by the sound of -the rushing water, that could be distinctly heard through her sides, -she had traveled many miles, and we were a long way from Judkins' Hall. - -Just before coming to an anchor for the night the forecastle pivot-gun -was fired at some hostile object, and there appeared to be some -excitement on deck, but this soon subsided. Then the anchor chain roared -through the hawse pipe and the sound of rushing water ceased. Men began -to swarm below, and it was evident that the schooner had made her run -for the day, and that unless Lord Dunmore interested himself quickly in -our behalf we would spend the night uncomfortably. - -It was late in the evening when the sergeant who had captured us came -below. He made his way to where we lay through the crowd of sailors and -soldiers who were sitting about talking and eating their evening meal, -and looking at us. - -"Th' Captin wishes to say a few whurds t' th' gentilman what stretched -him out this day on th' main deck," he observed to the men guarding us. -"'Twas a good stroke, sure, but the Captin av th' _Hound_ keel-hauled -two men, just lately, for trying to excite dishorder on th' beach, so it -must be a hanging th' owld man is afther to-night. Bring thim right -along wid ye, me sons." - -Then he made his way on deck and we followed after him with a soldier at -each elbow. - -We went quickly aft, and just as I turned to go down the cabin -companionway I looked astern and saw the dark loom of the frigate's hull -through the darkness. Then we filed below into the Captain's cabin. At -the head of the cabin table sat Captain Cahill, and in front of him -stood a flask of spirits. On either side, within easy reach, lay a -pistol with the flint cocked back over the priming, and behind the -Captain's chair stood Mr. Rose and two other officers. The Captain -looked little the worse for the blow Will had given him, but his eyes -shone fierce and green as a tiger's, as they met my cousin's look. - -"Captain Cahill," said I, "for I believe that's your name, you will do -yourself a favor if you set us ashore instantly. This outrage, sir, has -gone far enough." - -He turned his fierce little shifty eyes to me, but took no other notice -of my words. He sat there, silent and grim, and slowly filled his glass -from the bottle in front of him. Then he drank off the contents. As he -drained the last drops with his head held backward, his eyes met mine -squarely and his fury burned within him. He bit savagely through the -glass tumbler and ground the splintered fragments between his teeth, and -then spat them from his bleeding lips. Then he hurled the remainder of -the tumbler to the deck with a crash, and sat there silently glaring -like some fiend from hell. Finally he spoke. - -"It is now nearly nine o'clock," he said slowly. "When three bells -strike I shall drop all three of you overboard, and you shall have -three twelve pound shot--one apiece--along with you. Lord Dunmore -requests that you shall not be hurt. You will see, Mr. Rose," he went -on, turning to his lieutenant, "that no violence is done these -gentlemen. Do you understand, sir? Simply lower them carefully over the -side with a shot fast to the right foot of each, and see that their -hands are tied to prevent them from hurting any one. You may take them -forward, sergeant." - -We were on our way forward again and just on the point of entering the -forehatch, when the sound of oars, working in oarlocks with a -man-of-war's sweep, fell on our ears. The sergeant stopped and looked -over the vessel's side. - -"It's the Guvnor's boat," said one of the soldiers. "'E's comin' to pay -his respects to the skipper, an 'e'll find 'im in a fine state for -argyment." - -"'Pon me sowl, it is," said the sergeant. - -"Pete, you an' Rooney, here, take the folks below while I see to his -ludship." - -Before we reached the hatchway the boat was alongside and an officer -climbed quickly on deck, where he was met by the sergeant. - -"The Governor sends his compliments to Captain Cahill, and wishes him to -send the prisoners he took to-day to the frigate for examination," said -the officer, and as he spoke I recognized him as Captain Foy's -under-lieutenant whom I had met several times before at Harrison's -house. - -I called to him before anyone could stop me, and the next instant we -were shaking hands before the astonished soldiers. - -"You have come in good time, Mr. Jones," I said, "and for Heaven's sake -get us clear of this vessel and its lunatic skipper." - -He laughed heartily as the sergeant came up and saluted. "This way, if -ye plase," said that soldier, and he led him aft. - -A few minutes later the sergeant came forward, accompanied by Mr. Jones -of the _Fowey_, frigate, and we were ushered over the side just as the -lookout, forward, struck off three bells. - -"'Twas a narrer escape, me son," whispered the sergeant to Will as he -went over the side. The next minute we were on our way to the frigate. - - - - -CHAPTER VI - - -"It's all very well for your lordship to laugh," said Will, an hour -later, after we had been served with an excellent meal, washed down by -delicious wine, at the Governor's cabin table, "but had you been busy -with other matters to-night, we would have been comfortably buoyed in -the mud at the bottom of the river." - -"He is an uncommon rascal, that Cahill," laughed Dunmore, "but, my dear -Byrd, you should not take arms against His Majesty's Governor, even in -fun. Ha! ha! It would have been droll, 'pon my word, ha! ha! May the -Lord roast me if it would not have been a joke to have seen you three -gentlemen buoyed in this most muddy stream. It is a revelation, Byrd, a -revelation, sir, from Providence. A sign of the times and an omen for -you to take advantage of without delay. It is an insight into the future -and should hurry you to take up arms in His Majesty's just cause. Think -of it, if it had not been for his Majesty, the King--as represented by -myself--you would have been at the bottom of the river to-night to -remain there, perhaps, through all eternity; for I take it that the -angel Gabriel would have to blow a mighty blast to lift you out of this -most sticky Virginia soil." - -"But if it hadn't been for His Majesty, the King, as represented by -that truculent skipper on the schooner over there, we might now be -dining in the charming company of Miss Judkins and Miss Carter, to say -nothing of the mistress of Judkins Hall," said Barron, smiling at -Dunmore with a beaming face. - -"And have lost the honor of dining with his excellency, the Governor," I -put in hurriedly, for I thought I perceived an uncomfortable look gather -on his lordship's countenance. The two officers present, Captains Foy -and Graham, also began to look a trifle annoyed. - -"But where are we, anyhow, Lord Dunmore?" asked Will. "Your excellency -has rescued us, true enough, and made the matter all the better by -adding this splendid dinner, but whereabouts on the river are we?" - -"As near as I can judge, we are about twenty miles above Westover. Hey! -Captain Foy? Isn't that about the reckoning?" replied Dunmore. "And if -we have good luck and little fighting, we shall be through our business -in this part of the river and on our way down stream before this time -to-morrow evening. There is very little to do after all. Graham, here, -and Fordyce of the _Hound_ had some little difficulty yesterday with a -small party of rebels, but they were all shot or dispersed except the -leaders, who were keel-hauled by Captain Fordyce. He and Cahill are very -able men in their line of work and their vessels are well adapted for -these inland waters. But it is a very malodorous business and the sooner -we get clear of these unhealthy swamp vapors, and get a sniff of salt -air, the better. I hope, Foy, you will see that plenty of sulphur is -burned aboard to-night." - -"Can we be landed to-night?" I asked. - -"Yes," said Will, "can we get ashore? They will expect us at the Hall -and will be much troubled if we don't get back before bedtime." - -"I don't see how it can be done, do you Foy?" said Dunmore. "We had an -exchange of shots with the shore, as you may have noticed from the -schooner, just before coming to anchor, and I would hardly think it -wise to send a boat in there at this time of night. You wouldn't care to -land there this evening, would you, Graham?" - -"No, your excellency, it would hardly be safe," replied that officer. - -"Besides," continued Dunmore, "Fordyce stopped at Harrison's to take him -and his party aboard the _Hound_, and from Fordyce's description of your -affair on the beach with Cahill's men, they will probably be satisfied -that you are in safe keeping for the night. Harrison was in a hurry to -get to Norfolk, as he expected to sail for England soon,--so his note -said--and I gave Fordyce orders to end his patrol there and start back -immediately. He will go down on the morning tide and meet us below in a -day or two. Cahill, and some of those small craft astern of us can -finish up the work here and above us." - -"Then we shall have to spend the night aboard?" I inquired. - -"I am sorry to force my hospitality upon you, gentlemen," said Dunmore, -"but I see no other way out of it. Anyhow, I take it for granted you -would have joined us to-morrow, in the interest of the King, so the -hardships will not be so very great. However, if you would rather go -back aboard the _Black Eagle_ and spend the evening with Captain Cahill, -you may do so. Shall I call away the boat?" And as he said this his eyes -twinkled with some little amusement. - -"Give yourself no more trouble on my account, your excellency," said -Barron, "I am, as you know, an old soldier and have no relatives to -speak of. I find myself just as much at home in a strange bed, be it -ever so comfortable, as in any other." - -"Not a bad idea, Captain," answered Dunmore, "not a bad idea, sir; but -before we think of turning in, Captain Foy and Graham here would not be -adverse to opening a bottle or two more with you. Steward! You may clear -the table and bring some of that stuff captured yesterday. It may strike -you as strange, gentlemen," he continued, "but that beggar who lives -near Jamestown keeps most remarkable liquor. May the Lord pickle me, if -it isn't equal to any I have ever tasted at home." - -"And a most remarkable man he was, too," put in Captain Foy. - -"He did show more or less nerve of a peculiar order," said Graham. - -"How was that?" asked Will. - -"Well, you see," said Captain Graham, "we went ashore on the island to -reconnoitre, as we had heard of the large gathering at Williamsburg. The -first thing that greeted us on landing was a couple of rifle shots. -These appeared to come from the bushes near Jacquelin's house, and one -of them struck poor Billings in the pit of the stomach and passed -through him, poor fellow. We finally made a landing a little farther up -stream, where there was more cover, and the first thing we encountered -on getting ashore was a motely crowd of farmers, armed and ready to -fight us. There was one fellow, I believe they called him 'Bullet,' who -is a fierce rebel, and another mounted on a powerful bay mare, who rode -with his left arm in a sling and had a strangely attired negro servant -to carry a couple of rifles for him. These were the only dangerous men -in the crowd, for the rest had no organization and appeared to obey no -commander, so they quickly broke and fled at the first fire. Four of -them remained, however, and these two I have just described were the -ones who cut their way through our men with their swords and escaped. -The other two were captured, for they refused either to run or cease -fighting. One was Jacquelin, who owns the house, and the other a man -named Horn. Fordyce was coming up just then and I turned them over to -him. He tried to get some information about Mr. Henry's mob out of both -of them. Jacquelin had his fingers punched with a belt punch without so -much as saying a word, and the fellow, Horn, was seated on a hot stove -until the breeches and skin were burnt off his buttocks, but all he did -during that time was to curse His Majesty most heartily. Fordyce started -to keel-haul him, and had the line made fast to his hands passed under -the schooner's bottom, but somehow the line fouled just as he was drawn -under the bilge, and by the time they cleared it and pulled him aboard -again he was as dead as a mackerel. After Jacquelin had his turn, he -offered to lead us to Williamsburg, or anywhere else we wished to go, -and the beggar told a yarn about some good wine in his cellar the men -had failed to find. We stopped at his house again, and four of us went -with him to find the stuff. He did have a door we had overlooked and he -showed it to us. The cellar was full of this stuff you see before you, -and while we stood at the entrance admiring the flasks the rascal shoved -all four suddenly inside the door and banged it to and locked it. Then -he started across the island like a scared rabbit. That's the last -anyone saw of him, for, as usual in such cases, by the time the men -heard us and saw what had happened, he was too far off to hit and there -wasn't a man there who shot within a fathom of him." - -"That must have been a very interesting affair," said Will, somewhat -coldly, "but if you are through I would like to go to bed. I am a little -fatigued from the day's excitement. No thanks! I do not care for any -more wine. I hope your excellency will excuse me." And he rose from his -chair. - -Lord Dunmore looked sharply at Byrd, and appeared a trifle annoyed, but -he said nothing. - -It was easy to see that Will's sentiments were not exactly in accord -with our hosts, and that a strained relationship would exist between -them if something were not done quickly. It was evident that Lord -Dunmore expected us to accompany him as loyal subjects on the morrow, -and I knew it would need some keen acting on our part to enable us to -avoid giving up our residence at the Hall and becoming refugees for an -indefinite period. My heart was anything but light when I thought of -Harrison,--with the ruffian Fordyce to back him,--having things his own -way down the river. But as I only thought of Berk as a misguided -gentleman, a little over-zealous in his duty to the King, the only -trouble I anticipated was some obstacle I felt he would place in our way -when he found we wished to remain at home. At all events, I knew I must -not antagonize Dunmore, or he would fail to put us ashore the next day -as we hoped he would. Therefore I reached for poor Jacquelin's wine and -drank his excellency's health, and Barron needed no urging to follow my -example. - -Will remained standing until I explained that he was suffering from the -shock of the discharge from Cahill's pivot-gun, whereupon the Governor -was much amused and laughed immoderately as I described how the ball -covered us with sand and gravel. Then we finished the bottle, and after -bidding his excellency good night, the steward ushered us into the -officers' cabin where a state-room had been made ready for us. - -As soon as we were left alone, Will burst forth into a perfect torrent -of abuse against Dunmore and his underlings. Barron and I tried to stop -him lest some one should hear the noise, but it was only after he had -called them every villainous name he could think of that he at last -consented to keep quiet. As for myself, I have said before that the -Judkins family were not of a nervous or excitable disposition, and are -not carried away by wild and insane thoughts of mistaken patriotism, but -I had decided that evening that the King would soon have another enemy -of my acquaintance. By the present state of the feelings of both Barron -and Byrd, I thought it highly probable that there would be several more. - -Will finally turned in and I did likewise, for we were very tired. -Barron sat a long time apparently lost in thought, holding his -half-removed boot in his hands. Then he spoke. - -"Poor Horn," he muttered, "I owed him for two gallons of gin." And then -he undressed and turned in without another word. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - - -The next morning the frigate was under way before we were up, but as the -water appeared shoal at the end of the reach, she was anchored to await -high tide, for the river is very narrow here and dangerous for a large -vessel to turn about in. When we arose and came on deck a little later, -we had the pleasure of seeing our friends, or rather enemies, of -yesterday, pass close under the frigate's stern; and as they did so -Barron leaned over the rail and saluted Captain Cahill very pleasantly -and wished him a safe and happy voyage. - -We stood on the _Fowey's_ high poop and watched the swift little -schooner pass up the river and disappear around the bend above us. Soon -afterwards we heard the rattle of musket firing, followed by the heavy, -deep boom of her pivot-gun. After the reverberating echoes died away -along the wooded shores, all was silent. The sun broke through the river -mist and shone warmly on the muddy water, and the day promised to be -bright and quiet. The two small craft that followed the schooner now -took in their sails and put out their oars, and their niggers pulled to -a lusty chorus. - -Dunmore was up early. He was evidently annoyed at having to spend so -much time on the river, for he came on deck in quite bad humor. He -greeted us rather stiffly, and then turned to Captain Graham who had -also just made his appearance. - -"What is that firing about?" demanded the Governor in no uncertain tone. - -"I don't know, your excellency," replied Graham. - -"Captain Graham," said the Governor, "you will please tell me just what -you know, sir, quickly. It won't take a minute, sir, or else write it -down on a slip of paper. Send Mr. Johnson to me, sir!" - -The Captain went forward on the poop, and a moment afterward a young -officer appeared coming aft. He saluted the Governor and stood -attention. - -"Mr. Johnson, it is your watch on deck, sir. What was that going about -on board the _Black Eagle_?" inquired Dunmore. - -"I d-d-do not k-k-know,--your"-- - -"Call the Corporal of the guard, sir. Don't stand there and stammer at -me, sir," cried the Governor, interrupting him and waxing furious. - -The poor lieutenant retreated to the break of the poop, closely followed -by his master, but he was too excited to speak plainly. - -"Corp'ral g-g-g'ard! Corp'ral g-g-g'ard!" he cried weakly, but there was -no response from the main deck. - -"What are you doing, sir!" thundered Dunmore as he came up behind him. - -"Trying t-t-to c-c-call the Corporal of the g-g-g'ard, your"-- - -"For God's sake, Mr. Johnson call somebody. Call somebody, sir, quick," -cried his lordship, walking to and fro across the deck and wringing his -hands. Then, as he came to where the Lieutenant stood, he could stand it -no longer and waxed into a frenzy. - -"Do something! Call somebody! Do something for God's sake! Do something -Mr. Johnson, or get off this ship," he cried. And the young officer, -showing him self to be a man more fitted for action than words, dashed -down the companion ladder and dragged the corporal he wished for up -again by the collar of his coat. - -Then, after much swearing and questioning, the Governor heard that -Captain Cahill had fired upon a small hut, just visible beyond the bend -of the river. I tell these events that happened on board the _Fowey_, -frigate, to give an idea of the Governor's temper, and also because -every incident of that time stands out clearly before me. Mr. Jones, the -young officer who took us off the _Black Eagle_ was very pleasant to us, -and warned us against the tempers of Captain Foy and the Governor, after -which he kept out of our way, and we saw him no more to speak to while -we were aboard the ship. He was a promising young man and I hoped to -have him help us get ashore, but he evidently thought it best not to be -intimate with neutrals. - -After breakfast his lordship was in better spirits, and these were more -improved later in the morning upon the arrival of a small boat which -carried Mr. Robinson, a noted tory, and several of his family to the -frigate. Mrs. Robinson was a woman of fine presence, and her daughter -might have been said to have been beautiful, judging from the standard -of those days, but she was no longer young and her lack of success in -the matrimonial field appeared to have soured her temper. These people -were made comfortable in the officer's cabin and were very outspoken in -their opinions regarding Mr. Patrick Henry. - -When the tide turned in the afternoon and began to run a strong ebb, the -frigate was gotten under way, and, with her working canvas set, headed -down stream. The wind was so light that, in spite of the most careful -steering, she was run on a mud bank before going much over a mile. -Captain Foy, however, was equal to the occasion. He soon had a kedge out -and before the falling tide left her fast he warped the ship back again -into the channel. Bad luck did not desert us here, for the frigate had -hardly gathered way again before she piled heavily upon a sand bar and -all attempts to pull her off proved useless. It was then decided to -await the next high water. - -The day passed stupidly enough in spite of the presence of Miss Robinson -on board. We were all anxious to get down river and Lord Dunmore was now -in such a bad humor that he refused flatly, and with some energy, our -request to have a small boat put us ashore, so we could walk the twenty -miles or more across country to Judkins' Hall. - -But we were not the only ones to suffer from his lordship's temper. Mr. -Johnson, the young navigating lieutenant, came in for his share also. - -He was standing on the edge, or break, of the poop, after the frigate -had run hard and fast aground, and was much upset in his mind, although -the accident was unavoidable. - -A little imp of a powder-monkey boy thought to take advantage of a -moment when his back was turned, to imitate his defect in speech and -make faces at him for the benefit of the ship's company. The officer, -however, turned and caught him in the act. - -"Damn you, sir! Come to the m-m-mast!" he bawled, and Lord Dunmore, -hearing the noise, came forward to see what was the matter, and take a -hand in the disturbance if occasion demanded it. - -"What has he done?" asked the Governor, as the boy came aft crying with -fear. - -"Nothin'," snuffled the little rascal, speaking before anyone could stop -him. "'E just sez, 'Dam you, sir, come to the mast,' an' I comes." - -"Did you swear at this boy for nothing?" demanded the Governor. - -"No, your excellency," said Mr. Johnson. "I said d-d-damn y-y-you, sir, -c-c-come here, because he"-- - -"That will do!" thundered the Governor. "Go to your quarters in arrest, -sir. I won't have you swearing at my men for nothing. Go, sir!" And -after this affair we gave his excellency a wide berth for the rest of -the day. - -The next morning the tide floated us clear, and we got under way just as -the _Black Eagle_ came around the bend above us. She soon caught up with -the frigate and we learned that she had a dozen or more prominent tories -aboard who wished to take refuge with the royal Governor. - -We stopped twice on the way down the river, once to take aboard a tory -named Thornton, who lived on a large plantation on the south side, and -once we stayed an hour or more on a mud flat. - -It was nearly sundown before the white pillars of Judkins Hall showed -through the fringe of willows on the river bank. The red light of the -setting sun flooded the south portico and a pane of glass in a window, -catching a ray at an angle, burned like a bright eye for an instant as -we drifted past. - -Dunmore reluctantly consented to send us ashore in a boat with Mr. -Johnson and a guard of soldiers to see if anyone remained at the Hall, -and if so, to help carry what luggage there was to be sent aboard the -frigate. My slaves could follow us in the small craft. As the boat drew -near the beach, where only a few days before Bullbeggor had won his -strange victory over Harrison, we looked for some signs of welcome from -our people. Not a leaf stirred in the calm of the bend, and not a sound -from the shore broke the ominous stillness of that warm, clear evening. -None of us spoke and even Barron's face appeared grave with some thought -of impending evil. The sun shone on the sweating faces of the rowers, -and the regular clank of their oars in the row-locks beat time to my -heart throbs as I waited to learn what was wrong. - -When the boat's keel struck the sand, we sprang quickly ashore and -proceeded rapidly by the river path toward the Hall. On entering the -fringe of bushes and undergrowth on the river bank I thought I heard a -strange noise close by me to the right. We stopped a moment and -listened, but the four men and Mr. Johnson, who were following close -behind us, came up, and we started on again toward the Hall. - -All of a sudden I heard a faint cry. - -"Marse Dick!" it said feebly, and the voice came from the direction I -had first heard the noise. Barron, Byrd and myself heard the cry -simultaneously, and we instantly started toward the spot from whence it -came. The next minute we broke through a thicket of blackberry bushes, -and found a small cleared spot in the midst of the grass and briars. - -There, lying upon his back, with his left hand held over a nasty cut in -his abdomen, was my boy, Sam. The poor fellow saw me and I caught his -glad look of recognition, but his glance wandered back of me to Mr. -Johnson and his men, and his look turned to one of savage fury. He -started to rise, but I quickly held him in my arms while the rest -crowded around us. - -"What's happened?" I gasped. "Where is mother and Mary--and Miss -Carter?" - -"Miss Mary, she gone wid Marse Berk--all alone--old missus and Miss Rose -gone away, too," said the poor fellow, with great difficulty. - -I looked at Will and saw him turn ashy pale and his jaws set until the -bands of muscle in his lean face seemed about to break with the strain. - -"What rascal do you suppose did this?" asked Mr. Johnson, coming up -closer and noticing the look on Will's face. But no one answered. - -"Who gave you that cut, Sam?" I asked, bending over him and gently -removing his hand from the gash. "Get some water, quick!" I continued to -the men, but Barron had already started for the boat, where he found a -bailer, and returned in a moment with it full of water. In a few moments -Sam felt better, and I immediately set to work to dress his wound. "Who -cut you?" I asked again, for I saw he hesitated about telling me. I soon -had a bandage in place, and then I repeated the question. - -"Marse Berk," he finally whispered, and as he did so Will leaned over -him to catch the words. "He an' that Captain were here--Marse Berk--he -wanted Miss Mary to go off alone with him on the schooner--an' he took -her--she wanted to wait for old missus an' she cried--I came--so he -killed me." - -"But mother and Miss Carter, Sam, quick; where are they?" I asked, -frantically. - -"Dunno, Marse Dick. I'se been here sence yesterday--I ain't seen no -one--they all must be gone somewheres, too." - -"Carry him to the Hall," I said to the soldiers, and then Will and I -started on a run towards the house. On reaching the front door we found -it shut fast, but Will burst the fastening of a window on the verandah -and sprang into the dining room, and I followed at his heels. I bawled -out my mother's name, and Will cried out for my sister, but our voices -echoed through an empty house. There was not even a slave there. - -We quickly went through the rooms upstairs, and then through the -pantries and kitchens in the rear, without finding a single house -servant. Then we started for the slave quarters to see if anyone had -remained there, but not even a single pickaninny was in sight. -Everywhere there were traces of hurried preparations for departure. -Clothes were scattered about the floors, and in the servants' dining -room the evening meal lay untouched upon the table. We went outside and -looked about the court, and then went to the stables. We had only been -through the empty stalls on the lower floor, when we saw two of my -niggers coming on a run through the field to the northward. They had -seen us and had come from hiding places, and in a few minutes they were -with us and seizing our hands, thanking us for coming back again. Then -Mr. Johnson came up with his men, carrying Sam on a litter made of their -crossed muskets, and Barron showed them the way to a couch in the slave -quarters. - -My two field hands, who were telling me what had happened, were ready to -run at the sight of the soldiers, but I bade them be still and tell -their story. - -They told how the schooner, _Hound_, had anchored just off Harrison's -plantation, the evening we were captured by Captain Cahill, and how -Berkley Harrison had come over to the Hall with Captain Fordyce and a -file of soldiers. Then all hands had gotten drunk, in spite of my -mothers' presence, and Harrison had insisted on my family and Miss -Carter accompanying him to Norfolk on the vessel. My mother had -remonstrated at this high handed business, but Harrison stormed and -threatened, and vowed he could not keep the soldiers from looting and -burning the Hall if they were not all on board and ready to sail within -an hour. My sister took him outside to try and get him into a more -reasonable mood, and that was the last anyone on the plantation, except -Sam, saw of her. - -After waiting half an hour, my mother and Miss Carter became alarmed at -her absence, and also at the actions of the soldiers, who began to fire -their muskets at random. Upon looking for their Captain, they found him -sitting on the verandah with a bottle of spirits on a table before him -and much the worse for what he had already drank. He informed my mother -roughly that Harrison and my sister had embarked aboard the _Hound_, -which would sail within the hour. He then rose from the table and -insulted Miss Carter, after which he staggered down to the shore and was -carried aboard his vessel, leaving the Hall at the mercy of his men. -These rascals broke into the women's side of the slave quarters and such -a scene of riot followed that my poor mother and Miss Rose fled across -the fields for their lives. They reached Harrison's place and had the -frightened slaves, who were preparing to follow their master, harness a -horse for them. Then they drove with all speed for Pendleton's Inn at -the cross-roads several miles to the eastward. Here they were made -comfortable and were now awaiting news of our whereabouts. As the men -finished their story, Barron reappeared with the Lieutenant, and I -repeated some of the details. Then I turned to the officer. - -"You may give the Governor my compliments," I said, in a dry, rasping -tone that seemed to stick in my throat, "and tell him that I am sorry -not to be able to accompany him to Norfolk this evening. I shall, -however, hope to meet him and his party quite soon, and will make all -haste after I see affairs attended to here. Mr. Byrd, and, perhaps, Mr. -Barron, will go with you," and I gave Will a look that made him nod -assent. - -"I am v-very s-s-sorry, sir," stammered Mr. Johnson, "but the Governor's -orders were positive. They were that all of you should return with me to -the _Fowey_." - -"Indeed?" asked Will, blandly. - -"And of course you will carry out the Governor's orders?" asked Barron, -smiling pleasantly. - -"At any cost, sir," replied Mr. Johnson. - -"So you say," remarked Barron, still smiling. - -"So I'll do," replied Mr. Johnson coloring a little at Barron's remark. -"If you doubt me, sir, try me," and he looked about him for his men who -now came straggling up. - -"No offence, sir," put in Barron, quickly. "I merely repeated a remark -said to have been made quite often in the society at court--a remark -expressing doubt in the mind of the person making it, without reflecting -in any manner upon the sincerity of the person telling of the supposed -event." - -"At any rate, you certainly will allow us time to collect my people and -attend to my scattered property. Also, you will allow us to make what -necessary changes in our personal attire we see fit?" I asked. - -"Certainly, sir," replied the officer, "the frigate will anchor for the -night in the broad reach a few miles below the bend, and you shall have -plenty of time, not only to pack your effects, but to send for whatever -relatives you wish to accompany you. The men, meanwhile, can collect -your slaves and send them on ahead of us." - -"We shall make our preparations," I answered shortly, and then I led the -way into the Hall. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - - -My first care was for my boy Sam, and after he had been properly cared -for, he was carried aboard the small boat and made comfortable. - -While we were changing our clothes, Will and I had a chance to discuss -matters privately and decide what had best be done. - -Knowing my sister's fondness for Berkley Harrison, I conceived the idea -very readily that she had consented to go with him and marry him at the -first convenient opportunity. Will declared that he would soon hear this -consent expressed from her own lips, and that he would feel more -relieved after hearing it. God alone knows what the poor fellow's -thoughts were, and what hope still lingered within his breast. As for -myself, my duty appeared now to lay first with my poor mother--and Miss -Carter. My sister was off with the man she apparently loved, and nothing -worse could happen to her than what had already occurred. I believed -Harrison to be a gentleman and honorable in his dealings, although I did -not agree with him in his political ideas and views. - -Barron decided, positively, to accompany me and openly hinted that -Williamsburg was the place he hoped to reach as soon as he helped me -straighten out matters at the Hall. - -"I will join you there also, as soon as I find my services are not -needed at Norfolk," said Will. - -"Then we will leave you here with Mr. Johnson," I said. "As soon as he -gets tired of waiting for Barron and myself, you can go with him and -join Dunmore, and meet us later with the forces under Colonel Henry." - -While we were discussing our affairs, we were changing our shooting -clothes for more suitable garments, and we were quite alone. - -I took two silver mounted, Paris made pistols from a case, and concealed -them carefully by sticking them in my belt under my outer coat. I may -say here that these weapons were remarkable for their fine finish, and -were the same I had used on one or two well known occasions before. They -were the ones from which I had fired six bullets in succession, one day, -upon the edge of a knife blade set twenty paces distant, and they could -be relied upon. They had the advantage over most, for they exploded -almost instantly from the flash of the flint. - -After seeing to these, Barron and I then buckled on our swords; mine a -fragile rapier which had formerly been part of the dress of a man of -fashion, and his a more serviceable weapon, but still very light for -field use. - -"You will certainly allow me the privilege of escorting my own mother," -I said to the Lieutenant, when we had finished our preparations and had -come down stairs. - -"Where is she?" he asked. - -"At Pendleton's Inn, a few miles back in the country," I answered. "But, -as I understand we are not exactly prisoners, you will have no objection -to my going to her, and telling her of the arrival of his excellency, -the Governor." - -"Not only that, but you may take two men with you. There may be some of -Mr. Henry's bush-fighters who might not be to your way of thinking, and -who might dispute the way with you. Carry your sword if you wish. Is -Captain Barron to accompany you? He may do so if you wish it, for, of -course, I have your word that you will not stay any longer than -necessary or go anywhere my men cannot go also without making trouble." -Saying this he beckoned two stout soldiers aside and gave them some -orders I did not quite hear. - -I said nothing in reply to his remark about not staying, or leading his -men into hostilities, for I wished to gain time, and I led the way -quickly to the stables where saddles and bridles were procured. - -The horses were at large, but in sight, grazing quietly in the pasture -to the eastward of the quarters. My two field hands soon had four of -them ready. Giving a nod to Barron, I leaped into the saddle, and he -instantly followed my example. The soldiers started to mount in a more -leisurely manner. - -"Mr. Johnson," I said, turning quickly, "I have not given my word as to -not leaving you and your men. Mark that, sir. Therefore I bid you -farewell." - -The next instant I was loping gracefully down the carriage drive with -that peculiar ease which you may have, perhaps, noticed as belonging to -a Virginia country gentleman. - -Barron's knee was rubbing against mine with each rise and fall, and the -old soldier was smiling happily at the scenery lit up by the last rays -of the setting sun. - -I half expected to hear a warning bullet, and turned my head with my -chin to my shoulder to see what was taking place behind. - -Mr. Johnson waved his sword nervously and shouted out something I could -not understand, and then the two soldiers came galloping after us. - -"We better avoid their company, for they are rough looking men," said -Barron. "A soldier is good enough when properly commanded, but most -unpleasant when in command. As for me, I intend to command some as soon -as I can join the Major and the rest at Williamsburg." - -"We must shake clear of these men before we get to the Inn," I said. "It -would never do to have a dispute there before the ladies, although the -advantage would lie with us. Suppose we slack up at the turn a mile -above here and tell these fellows to go back. Perhaps Will will find -himself kept pretty close when Dunmore knows we are not exactly in -sympathy with the king." - -"He will have tact enough to keep out of limbo, but I reckon Dunmore -will try to make him take up arms against us," said Barron. "You spoke -of a bend in the road; is that it ahead there?" - -"Yes, but suppose these fools show fight?" I asked. - -"That little side ornament of yours will do little good in that case, -but I reckon I can hold them both in play. There was a time, if I -remember rightly, when I knew something about the use of a sword--even a -light one like this I have with me. When Braddock was down in the swamps -I was a fair hand at pinning frogs. I reckon there isn't anything much -better to eat than the reptile's legs, but I tired of them after the -boys got me to eat the half raw legs of a skunk, by mistake, in the way -of a joke. Most uncommon joke it was, but I certainly am right when I -say I can taste those legs yet. Whoa! Steady, boys?" And we slowed our -horses down to a walk. - -The soldiers came galloping up, and the one who appeared to be a -corporal, by the cheverons on the sleeves of his tunic, drew alongside -of me and saluted. - -"Sorry, sir, but orders are to accompany you to your party at the Inn -and bring whatever luggage you wish to send back with me," said he. - -"But I'm not coming back to the Hall for some time," I answered. "Do -you wish to go with me to the militia camp? It's doubtful if they would -receive you well, or allow you to return to the frigate after seeing -your uniform." - -"We only go three miles," said the man, "and if your party is not with -us after traveling that distance, we will postpone meeting them this -evening and shall return together." - -"Shall is a big word," said Barron, laughing. "Don't you know any better -than to use it to a gentleman? I reckon your discipline or early family -training has been neglected." - -"Our discipline aboard the _Fowey_ is fair," answered the soldier, -coolly, "and as for my family training, I don't think such things count -for much. Family is nothing to me, for the only ones I ever knew of mine -were cowardly and bad." - -"Does that apply to your mother and father?" asked Barron, much amused. - -"Most certainly. My mother was a woman on the streets, and my father was -probably some chance acquaintance of a day or two, though I never heard -his name, or have I ever met him; but if you think my ancestry makes me -an inferior being to your self, I shall take pleasure in proving that a -man's worth depends entirely on the education or training he gives -himself, mentally or physically." - -"You speak with great precision," laughed Barron, "and I am sorry not -to have time to discuss your theory to a better advantage. That tall -pine tree ahead, with the eagle's nest in its top, is a trifle over -three miles from Judkins' Hall, so I regret to have to bid you good -evening." - -"If that really be so we shall all turn about here and go back to the -boat. We shall proceed no further in this direction. I suppose you know -I am master of arms on the frigate and quite capable of enforcing my -words with this." And he whipped out a long shining sword and his silent -mate did likewise. - -"Of course you gentlemen will not resort to anything so vulgar and -absurd as resistance. Therefore turn your horses and we may discuss -other matters." - -My temper had been steadily rising for some minutes past, and now it -burst beyond my control. - -I snatched out my rapier and dug my heels into my horse's ribs. The -animal sprang forward twenty paces. Then I drew up and wheeled suddenly, -and then bore down on that Corporal with all speed, my sword point aimed -at his breast. - -There was a crash as the animals and weapons met, and the next thing I -knew I was lying on my back by the roadside, grasping the hilt of my -puny, broken sword tightly in my right hand. - -Barron sat quietly in his saddle and laughed immoderately at me, while -the soldier seized my horse by the bridle and bade me remount. - -I sat up in the roadway a little dazed, but, collecting myself, I felt -under my coat to see if my pistols were all right. They were there, so I -arose, and, taking my horse from the Corporal, climbed painfully back -into the saddle again. Barron then drew his weapon and slowly placed -himself on guard. - -"You may or may not be right in your theory, Mr. Soldier," said he, "but -we are not to accompany you back to Dunmore. Mr. Judkins is a very young -and inexperienced swordsman compared to yourself, but his mishap was due -more to the worthlessness of his weapon than lack of skill." - -"Tut! tut! I shall be forced to secure both of you with cords, if this -nonsense proceeds any further," said the Corporal. "Put up your sword -and waste no more time. Jim!" he called to his mate, "pass a line about -Mr. Judkin's wrists, lest he continue this nonsense past supper time." - -The soldier approached and bade me hold forth my hands that he might -secure them with a line he produced from under his belt. I saw there was -no use of putting off the crisis any longer, so I held out one of -them--my right--and in it was gripped the butt of the straightest -shooting pistol on the Virginia peninsula. - -"Give me your sword hilt," I said, as I raised the barrel level with his -eyes. But the fool had seen me unhorsed so grossly, that he laughed in -my face, and made a pass at my weapon with his blade. I held fire while -his point cut my cheek open, and I ordered him back, hoping I could -spare his life. But he cursed me and pressed on, aiming a blow at my -head to knock me from my horse, so I could wait no longer. Then, to save -my life, I pulled down the flint. The next instant he lay dead in the -road with a bullet hole in the center of his forehead. - -It was all done so quickly that the Corporal and Barron sat looking on, -hardly realizing what had happened. This gave me the moment I needed, so -I pulled out my left hand weapon. - -"Surrender your sword, sir," I cried to the Corporal, for the -excitement of the fight was hot within me and my patience was at an end. - -"Not to such a swordsman as you; it would disgrace me," replied the -Corporal contemptuously, and he began the fight by making a pass at -Barron, which the old Captain parried. Round and round and past each -other went the horses, guided by trained hands, and the sword blades -slipped with a ringing sound from lunge to parry. So fast did they fight -that I found myself sitting there quietly in my saddle looking on, never -thinking for an instant that one snap shot from my pistol would put an -end to the affair. It was rapidly growing dark, but at that distance I -could have broken the soldier's sword blade while it was in play, had I -so wished. - -The man was certainly a master of fence and I soon saw that Barron had -no chance whatever with him. Still I never thought to fire upon a man -engaged with another in a fair fight. The cut in my cheek bled freely, -but I felt no pain or dizziness and was cool enough to think calmly. -Once the thought came to me to get the dead man's sword and take part in -the unequal affray, but I put it aside and made up my mind to shoot only -at the last minute to save Barron's life. Suddenly a new idea flashed -through my head and I instantly raised the pistol. The corporal's horse -turned his nose in my direction and I marked the white blaze between -his eyes. - -"Crack!" And down both horse and rider went, just as Barron whirled a -wicked cut at the soldier's head. The old Captain's weapon went wide and -the Corporal jumped to his feet as lightly as a cat and was on guard -again before Barron fully realized what had happened. - -"Come!" I cried. "Let him go!" And I galloped away down the road before -I finished speaking. Barron wheeled his horse to follow just as the -soldier started for him. In an instant the animals were together, -running neck and neck, with that Corporal within six feet of Barron's -saddle, running as I had never seen a man run before. - -Away we went, and for a second or two I was afraid Barron would be run -through the back, but the pace proved a trifle too strong for our enemy. - -Seeing this, the rascal made a vicious cut at Barron's mount and almost -hamstrung him, and then he dropped back while the poor animal hobbled -ahead desperately for several minutes, and finally brought up dead lame. - -"That man will certainly prove he is equal to both of us," said Barron, -"and put at variance all laws of heredity, if we don't do something to -stop him." - -"It's a pity I didn't shoot him, for that was my last shot," I said. -"Here he comes, and unless you can hold him in check until I get a -charge into this pistol, we will indeed see Dunmore or the devil -to-night." - -As I spoke the figure of the Corporal showed through the gathering -darkness, coming along the edge of the road at a smart walk with his -long sword in front of him. - -"You ride on ahead and let me settle with him," said Barron, quietly. - -"It is uncommon shameful to have to run from this vermin," I said, "but -I had him at my mercy once and let him go." - -"So had he you, my boy," laughed Barron. - -It did seem hard to have to get away from this creature, the -acknowledged offspring of a prostitute, but it was apparently certain -death to face him. I strove to get a charge into one of my pistols, but -by the time I had the powder in the barrel he was up with us. He saw -what I was about and instantly started for me. And then, yes, I shall -have to confess it, then I put spurs to my mount and went down that dark -road as though thirty devils were at my heels. The corporal's long sword -could not reach me, so he soon gave up the chase and turned his -attention to Barron. - -In another minute my pistol was loaded and I was riding back again as -fast as I could. - -Barron had dismounted and they had just begun a passage as I rode up. - -I was almost beside myself with rage and I rode close to the soldier to -be certain of my aim. I meant to end matters and would run no risk at -night, so I shot quick and sure for the centre of the man's body and had -the satisfaction of seeing him double up and drop in the roadway. - -Barron stooped over him and picked up his long straight sword. He looked -at it for a moment and then passed it to me. It was a very heavy weapon -and as sharp as a razor. - -"Come," said Barron, "let us carry him into the bushes and go ahead." - -The form of the soldier moved slightly as he spoke. - -"I thought you killed him," he continued, and he sprang forward with his -sword drawn back for a final thrust. - -"Hold on!" I cried, "he's dead unless made of iron," and I jumped down -from my horse and bent over the fallen man just as he started to raise -himself. - -"His belt! Quick!" I cried, and I grasped him around the body with all -my strength. - -Before he fully realized what was taking place, we had his elbows lashed -fast behind him and I had a chance to find out why he not was dead. - -My bullet had struck him just below the breast bone and over the heart, -but between him and it was the cross belt buckle-plate of his uniform. -The lead had flattened on this, but the stroke of the ball had sent him -to the ground unable to move for over a minute. - -"You are a most disputatious man, Mr. Soldier," said Barron, good -humoredly, "and at one time you had nearly all the facts necessary to -establish the truthfulness of your side of the argument. I hope you are -now convinced of the value of good breeding, and will not, in the -future, thrust yourself into company uncongenial to your taste. However, -you shall now accompany us to the Inn, for I would hardly trust you to -return to Mr. Johnson alone to-night." - -"Had I believed you were not too scared to return," said the soldier, -looking straight at me, "I would have followed you and killed you. Your -horse is a good runner." - -"And for such an absurd mistake, I very nearly killed you," I answered. -"Had I known you were so bent upon mischief, I would have sent your -soul to the devil some twenty minutes ago. We will now go back and get -your mate's horse and you will walk between us the rest of the way." - -In a few minutes we were back to where the dead soldier lay and Barron -was soon mounted upon his animal--which, by the way, was mine, as were -also the other three, and it caused me some little regret to lose two of -them on account of this hard headed soldier. - -We carried the dead man to the roadside and laid him in bushes. Then we -proceeded quietly upon our way, and the moon rose like a huge ball of -silver to light up the dark road. - - - - -CHAPTER IX - - -Pendleton's Inn, as you may remember, was a famous place in its time. -Colonel George Washington often stopped there, and Mr. Patrick Henry -often held a group of listeners spellbound with his peculiar eloquence -on its wide verandah. - -So proud was the proprietor of his distinguished guests, that the bed -Colonel Washington usually slept in, and even a certain chair at the -head of the dining room table, in which it was claimed he generally sat, -have been preserved and pointed out to new-comers as objects of peculiar -interest. As for me, I have been to hardly a single house between New -York and Richmond that has not boasted of possessing some of the -Washington furniture, and I have been somewhat sociable in my habits. - -Pendleton himself was a sad rake. But his hospitality was known to the -young men for miles around, and his house was often used as a meeting -place on Sunday afternoons, when the gentlemen would indulge themselves -in such exciting sports as cock-fighting and rat killing. Sometimes -affrays of a more sanguinary nature occurred within the limits of its -broad orchard, but these happened seldom, and, on the whole, the Inn was -considered respectable enough for any lady in the commonwealth. - -"I could not have stood it much longer, my dear Richard," said my -mother, the morning after our arrival. "I am too old for such scenes as -that which happened at the Hall. I have not slept since Mary was taken -away, and I have not had my bath for two days. All the servants ran away -from that odious Captain and his terrible men. The only ones I have with -me here are old Mammy Liza and Mary Jane Johnson. They were so old the -men took no notice of them, so they hobbled all the way over here to me. -But they cannot do anything, let alone fix my bath. And poor Rose, she -has been so quiet. Not a word has passed her lips and she walks to and -fro in her room with her head held tightly in her hands. The shock to -her young nerves at seeing such revelry has completely unstrung her. -Mammy Liza said she had delirium last night, for she heard Rose scream -'villain' and 'scoundrel' at the top of her voice, and when she looked -into her room she was sitting in bed with her hands clenched and her -eyes staring into vacancy." - -"I suppose she will not breakfast with us, then," I said. - -"I doubt it, but when I tell her you and Captain Barron are to take us -to Williamsburg, she may make her appearance in time. You will not leave -before we get some news of Will and Lord Dunmore, will you?" - -"Possibly not," I answered, "but it is hardly worth while to stay here. -It is not likely the Governor will send a party this far inland after -us, and as for Will, he will have no message of importance, even if he -has a chance to send one. The Governor is in a hurry to get out of the -river, for the climate does not agree with him. He is probably now as -far down as Jamestown on his way out." - -While I was speaking, Barron made his appearance, accompanied by old -Pendleton and half a score of armed men who had camped in the barn over -night. These militiamen were on their way to join the forces under -Colonel Henry, and they were armed and dressed in the most fantastic -manner. They had just visited our prisoner, the Corporal, who was -confined in a box-stall in the stable, and were in high good humor at -the soldier's fierce threats and wild vaporings. Barron left these men -on the far end of the verandah and came up and saluted my mother. - -"I shall wait upon you, madam," he said, "just as soon as I ride over to -my lodgings at the Widow Brown's house and attend to some little private -matters there. It is not likely I will be back this way before next -year, and I reckon I had better tell my landlady so. I think, however, -that the Governor has made his last trip up the river, and, if that is -the case, you can soon go back and remain unmolested at the Hall. But -here comes our host, and he looks as if he had some matters of -importance to communicate." - -"Matam ees sarved wid her bickfust," spoke up old Pendleton, giving my -mother a sweeping bow as he approached. - -"In that case we will all go in together and fortify ourselves for the -coming ride," I said, and I led the way to the table with my mother on -my arm. We no sooner sat down than Miss Carter made her appearance. It -was so late the night before when we arrived that I had not had a chance -for more than a word of greeting with her, so she received Barron and -myself very graciously. - -In spite of her pleasant manner, I noticed the large blue eyes--I had -seen only to admire so often before--were swollen and red, and the poor -girl appeared to have suffered much. A man must be very selfish when in -love, for it was quite plain to me that she was suffering more than I, -yet I would not have had Harrison back there at that moment, had I been -certain of his conventional behavior with my sister Mary. There is no -use of denying it, I felt almost glad that he had run off with my -sister. I was sure Mary loved him, and I reasoned that no harm could -happen to her. I was equally certain Byrd would soon reappear with the -news that she and Harrison were happily married. I was furious to see -this beautiful woman breaking her heart for another, but was glad that -his act was irrevocable and left the field clear for myself. - -Barron waxed especially lively during the meal and ordered some of -Pendleton's new cider, suggesting that Miss Carter and my mother drink -some to refresh themselves for lack of sleep. - -"It is weak enough, I reckon," said he, "for I call to mind the time -Bullbeggor and I stopped here last year. His nigger, Snake in the Grass, -had never seen this stuff, for the Major sticks pretty well to stronger -waters. One cold night I gave the rascal a bottle filled with the stuff -and told him to be careful with it, as it was very good. He sneaked off -after supper into the woods and the Major couldn't find him again that -evening. About midnight, while we sat smoking and talking, we heard a -knock at the door. I went into the entry and opened it, and there was -Snake, shivering and shaking with cold. 'What's the matter, Snake?' I -asked, when I got him inside. 'Oh, Marse Barron, yo' dun me mean,' he -said, 'I went outen the woods to drink dat stuff on de quiet, an' I dun -set thar fo' hours waitin fo' de drunk tu come--an' I'se nearly froze. -Yessah, yo' dun me mean, suh; sho' nuff mean, an' I'se nearly froze.'" - -"Major Bull, he stopped here de oder day wid his nigger," added -Pendleton. - -"How about his shoulder, was it paining him much?" I asked. - -"His shoulder! Nien it was a leedle hole, de pain shooded all through -him. He has dem shooding pains always shooding through him. Dey was -only leedle pains. Mein Gott! I never see de Major, but wid a leedle -shooding pain." - -"Then he went on and joined the militia at Williamsburg as he intended?" -asked Miss Rose. - -"Not only that," I put in, "but it was he who did some little fighting -with that Captain Fordyce in the little skirmish below here the other -day." - -"And perhaps that is why the Captain acted as he did at the Hall. People -are usually judged by the company they keep, and they all had heard of -the duel," said Miss Rose, with a little sting of resentment in her -voice. - -"If that be really so, people's judgments are most unjust, for a man -certainly cannot always choose his own companions," I replied. - -"I think he can," she answered. - -"God grant that it be even so," I said, quietly, and I caught her eye -for an instant. - -Barron was laughing and looking at my mother, but Miss Carter appeared -to take no notice of him and continued to eat her egg with more ill -tempter than appetite. - -When we were through the meal, Barron rode over to his lodgings and then -returned within an hour. After that we had the horses brought up, and he -and I acted as outriders to my mother and Miss Carter, who rode in -Pendleton's chaise with old Mammy Liza and Mary Jane on the rear seat. -One of my field hands, who came over to the Inn, acted as driver. -Pendleton was to collect the rest of my people and take care of them -until my mother was ready to return to the Hall. - -We started off with a contingent of the militia bringing up behind us as -a rear guard, and among them walked the Corporal with his belt strapped -about his elbows behind him. - -It was something uncommon in the way of a procession, as we rode slowly -down the old Virginia turnpike. Barron, sitting his horse in an easy, -soldierly fashion, riding on one side of the carriage, and I riding on -the other, while the motley men with muskets and squirrel rifles, having -the English corporal in their midst, came straggling along through our -thick yellow dust-cloud in the rear. The sun shone brightly and the -birds sang merrily in the fields and woodlands, so our spirits rose, and -even Miss Carter began to smile at Barron's jests. - -The long, heavy sword I captured from the Corporal jangled uncomfortably -from my belt, and it, together with my two silver mounted pistols, which -I now carried in full view, gave me a most warlike appearance. But my -clothing was of the latest fashion, and even my shoes showed the marks -of care my poor boy Sam had bestowed upon them. But if I attracted some -attention from the neighboring farmers, I hardly know what amount of -interest was excited by the looks of our strange followers. - -Some of these had their hair long and matted, hanging down over blouses -or hunting shirts of deer skin, giving them an almost wild look. Their -long rifles had the old fashioned heavy flint and wide primer and were -of small calibre, best fitted for hunting squirrels and such game. But -their powder horns held enough ammunition for a campaign, and they were -all tolerable shots. Those who carried muskets appeared perfectly -contented that their weapons made a loud noise and asked for nothing -better than a range at which it would be almost impossible to miss an -enemy--or hit a friend. Some carried old swords of the most unusual -patterns,--looking as though they might have once done good duty as -scythes,--and all carried knives. A young clown, from one of the upper -counties, carried a musket with fixed bayonet and had the impudence to -try and force the Corporal to put him through the manual of arms, even -threatening to blow the soldier's head off if he gave an improper order. -All of them were entirely without discipline, and all gave orders and -offered suggestions at one and the same time. This, of course, -invariably ended in a dispute that had to be settled by long arguments, -in which all who wished to took part. Several times, during their -bickerings, they fell far behind us, only to catch up again later on, -and all day long their hilarious songs, accompanied by frequent -fusilades of rifle shots, kept us in excellent knowledge of their -whereabouts. - -At noon we passed Doncastle's ordinary, where the affair of the -gunpowder brought about the first distinct rupture between Lord Dunmore -and the people. Everything appeared quiet and peaceful and the place -showed no signs of war. - -We had little conversation on the ride, and I found myself thinking a -great deal of my poor boy Sam and Will Byrd. Will, I felt sure, would -take care of the wounded fellow and endeavor to prevent him from falling -into other hands, and I believed Sam would soon get over his hurt, for -he was a powerful nigger, broad-built and with good pluck. I tried to -imagine what would happen to Harrison if Sam ever met him before matters -were peacefully settled. But then I knew that Harrison would not return -to his plantation until the war was over, and I believed it would be a -long time before peace reigned again in the colonies. - -At intervals during the ride I came close to the carriage and endeavored -to engage Miss Carter's attention, but she appeared so sad and listless -that, out of sheer pity, I forbore to worry her with my presence. Once I -thought I noticed her looking at me intently with a curious, searching -expression in her eyes for some moments, but when I turned my gaze in -her direction she immediately stared vacantly at the scenery ahead. - -I told my mother of my intention of joining the forces under Mr. Henry, -and strange to say she did not appear to be either surprised or -disappointed. On the contrary, she began instantly to give me all manner -of advice about taking care of myself when camping in the field, and -above all implored me never to expose myself to the danger of getting -shot. - -"It is absurd," said she, "that a gentleman should expose himself to the -hurts which belong to the common, vulgar soldier. A true general always -takes care of himself, for with him rests the care of the whole army. -Should anything happen to the officer in command, what, oh what would -become of those poor fellows dependent upon him for his high courage and -intelligence? They would certainly be lost, and it is for them, my dear -Richard, you should sacrifice all brute feelings of ferocious courage -and keep yourself in hand." - -Barron agreed with her in her sentiments, and she made him promise -faithfully that he would never leave my side in the hour of danger, and -never allow me to be carried away by my youthful ardor; all of which he -did with a grave countenance, and some little ceremony, in spite of a -little frivolity on my part. - -In the late afternoon we caught sight of the white tents of the militia, -and soon afterwards we were entering the quaint old town of -Williamsburg. We headed for my uncle's house, which stood near the -college, in the best part of the town, for my uncle's wife, Aunt Jane, -as I called her, was a person of some prominence, and was of the ancient -family of O'Brian, which, as you know, was once royal. - -The streets were full of men from the surrounding country, who gathered -in groups as we passed, and pointed at us and stared as though we were -something remarkable. But they were all rough men, who had never seen -much, and belonged to the outlying settlements and farms where no -gentleman ever gets, except by hunting or some mishap. The men who -appeared to be soldiers wore no regular uniform, and might have passed -for a lot of armed yokels starting out on a coon hunt. - -As we drew near our destination we heard the sound of galloping horses, -and presently several mounted men came riding around the corner ahead of -us. - -I recognized Patrick Henry and Colonel Woodford at a glance. The former -had made himself a colonel of militia and rode a powerful grey horse at -the front of the groups, while on either hand rode Colonel Woodford and -Colonel Bullet. Behind them came several other gentlemen, well known -along the James river for their anti-British politics. Among them I -recognized Major Bullbeggor and also Mr. Jacquelin, who had been -captured by Fordyce, and who had escaped from his captors by running -while they were suddenly confined in his wine cellar. Still farther in -the rear rode some mounted servants, with Snake in the Grass in their -midst. - -The Major saluted with a flourish as he rode past, as did the rest of -the officers, and Snake's hat continued to rise and fall while his -nodding, grinning face was turned towards us until the cavalcade -disappeared in the direction of the encampment behind the college. - -On arriving at our destination, we received a warm welcome from my aunt -Jane and cousin Marion. Although my uncle, Thomas Burns, Esq., had died -some years before, my aunt and cousin were living in the most -comfortable circumstances. While they lived simply in their large -mansion, they had an abundance of home comforts and many house -servants, and cousin Marion, though only sixteen, was considered one of -the wealthiest as well as prettiest women in Virginia. Aunt Jane was -well known for her kind acts of charity and hospitality, so you may be -sure there was nothing lacking for our comfort on our arrival at her -house. - -In spite of this Barron and I were all eagerness to go to the camp and -report to Colonel Henry--as we now heard him called--for duty. Even the -prospect of a few hours alone with Miss Carter and my pretty cousin -Marion, was not enough to curb my impatience to be among the men, who I -now felt certain would make some history to be handed down through all -time. - -I know Marion laughed at my warlike appearance, but I changed that a -little by fixing my pistols under my coat and hitching up my heavy -broadsword until it cocked up as prettily behind as a rapier. In this -attire I bade my pretty cousin good-bye, with cousinly privilege, and -bowed low to Miss Carter. Then Barron and I mounted our horses and rode -off with Marion's laugh ringing after us. She was a very pretty girl and -as good as ever lived, but I thought very little about her as we rode -down the main street in the direction of Colonel Henry's headquarters. - - - - -CHAPTER X - - -The first person we met on arriving in front of Colonel Henry's house -was our old friend, Major Bullbeggor. - -"I am feeling pretty peart, Mr. Judkins," he replied, in answer to my -greeting. "That little punch Harrison gave me is almost well, and -besides a slight twitching of the bones and some little stiffening of -the joints, with a little pain shooting through them, I am feeling fine, -sir. Yes, sir, feeling like a bird, sir. But where on earth did you get -that English sword, and what brought you and your mother here so soon? -Dunmore, for sure. No fear! The rascal passed down the river this -morning and I don't think he will try coming up again. But what can we -do without ships or guns? We gave them a dusting on the island, the -other day, and lost poor Jim Horn and three niggers before leaving. -Bullet and I had a hard time to get out, and Snake took a slight hurt." - -"Yes, I heard all about it," I answered. And then Barron and I told how -we were captured and taken aboard the vessels, and how Harrison had -served my people at the Hall while we were absent. - -The Major's eyes flashed as we told the story and his hand went -nervously to his sword hilt. "I didn't hit him hard enough," he said -fiercely, when we had told of the actions of the soldiers at the Hall. - -While we continued speaking, we were interrupted by an uproar which -arose from the street beyond the college, and on looking in that -direction from which the sounds proceeded we suddenly saw the figure of -a man, covered completely from head to foot with feathers, come running -along the pavement towards us. Behind him came a howling mob, armed with -every conceivable sort of weapon, and they pressed closely upon the -runner's heels. The fugitive stopped suddenly in front of me and spoke -out-- - -"If you'll give me that sword of mine for a few minutes, I think I might -show these fools the absurdity of playing their infernal games upon one -of his Majesty's soldiers," he said coolly, and I instantly recognized -the voice of the corporal who had engaged us so hotly the day before. He -was almost completely hidden under his coat of tar and feathers, and the -only part of his face visible was his nose and eyes. - -Barron and the Major burst into uncontrollable laughter, in which I -joined. - -But the man's tormentors were upon him before I had even time to -consider his proposition. They surrounded him and began prodding him -with sticks and bayonets, shouting and jeering in derision. - -Bullbeggor was the first of us to recover himself. He drew his sword and -struck his spurs into his powerful mare, making her spring forward -through the crowd. He knocked down several men in his path and reined up -alongside the prisoner. - -"Disperse!" he roared. "Break away!" And he struck some of the men -nearest him with the flat side of his blade. Barron and I spurred -forward and joined him, for the natives were waxing furious at this -interruption and I noticed one man bringing his musket to his shoulder. -The Major saw the fellow in time to avert disaster, and he leaned -forward and smote the weapon so strongly that it fell from the -scoundrel's hands. Then we closed around the prisoner with our swords -sweeping at arm's length, and the Major thundered forth orders for the -men to disperse, threatening them with all sorts of military punishments -if they did not. - -But these wild men had no idea of discipline, and feared nothing, so -they still crowded sulkily around us, brandishing their weapons and -cursing us heartily for interfering with their sport. - -The uproar had been heard at headquarters, and Colonel Henry appeared on -the verandah accompanied by Colonel Bullet, Woodford, and some other -officers. Colonel Woodford roared out orders, and some of the men about -us turned to see who our new ally was. Then they suddenly recognized -Patrick Henry, as he stood there in his waistcoat on the verandah. - -There was something in the calm dignity of Colonel Henry's manner that -arrested all the fierceness of these rough men's passions and drew -attention to him as the magnet draws soft iron. He stood there on the -verandah and held out his hand over that wild mob, and spoke, and in -less than half a minute every man was silent and listening. - -I cannot recall the words that fell from the lips of that grand orator, -and when I think of him standing there speaking, it seems to me it was -not the words at all that affected me, but the deep power of the man's -nature. - -I have heard men speak to men in my time, and have listened to some of -the eloquent words of those who have made history; but nothing I ever -heard compared to the power and force of those words that fell from the -lips of that plain and uncouth officer standing there on the verandah of -that house in Williamsburg. - -He spoke to that mob of honor and manhood, and of the grand things of -war, and bade them remember that mercy to a fallen enemy showed the -difference between a coward and a man. - -When he finished there was not one of that ruffian crowd who looked -squarely at his neighbor, and two minutes afterwards there were not six -of them in sight. - -The only person there who appeared in no way affected by Patrick Henry's -remarkable eloquence, was the English corporal. - -He looked carelessly about him for a moment and then at Major -Bullbeggor. - -"I have to thank you," said he, "for interfering with those farmers, for -as you see, I am entirely unarmed and undressed--except for this growth -of feathers. But I am no chicken sir, in spite of them. No, sir, I'm -hardly classed as a chicken--as these two gentlemen with you might -testify. - -"If the ugly old duck, there,"--and he pointed to Barron--"would like to -continue the argument we were engaged in last night, I think I might -persuade him of the fallacy of his ideas concerning his birth and self -importance." - -"You have most remarkable powers of logic," laughed Barron, "and if -reason and sword-play were analogous I doubt not that you could sustain -your premise. But there are too many men like you in this world who wish -to maintain their point by reason of false analogy. Therefore, I warn -you that unless you mend your speech I shall turn you over again to -Colonel Gibson's lambs, and they will hardly let you off so easily the -next time." - -"If they are his lambs," replied the soldier, turning and looking at -Colonel Henry, "I take it he is a preacher, and now I mark it, the -fellow has a most ecclesiastical mode of speech. One would think him an -itinerant minister, holding forth to his flock of"-- - -"Silence! you dog," growled the Major, "know your betters, or I'll -stretch you on the wheel." Then he beckoned to an orderly who stood nigh -the steps of the house and in a moment the Corporal was led away to be -scraped and scrubbed. - -Barron and myself were then introduced to Colonel Henry, Woodford, and -other officers in the group, after which we were left to ourselves to -discuss more or less learnedly the probable outcome of affairs in the -colonies, while the older men went back to their duties. I knew little -or nothing about military organization, so when the talk drifted into -certain channels I withheld my speech. Before we left, however, Barron -and I had been assigned volunteer positions; he as captain of a company -of farmers, and I as a lieutenant in it, all under the command of Major -Bullbeggor, who, in turn, belonged to Colonel Bullet's regiment. Rank -was a pretty hard thing to determine in those days, for nearly everybody -was addressed as "Colonel" or "Major," no matter what they were in -reality. Besides this, there were several jealous men in the Richmond -assembly who pretended to doubt Colonel Henry's military ability, and -for a long time I believed Colonel Woodford in command. - -The brave and gallant Bullet, however, took the place assigned him -without a word, as did Bullbeggor, Barron and myself, and we strove to -get some discipline into the hunters and farmers who made up our rank -and file. - -Gibson's Lambs, as his command of wild men were called, were almost -beyond the reach of discipline, and were little better than Indians, so -at one time Colonel Woodford was strongly tempted to disband the whole -outfit, but later on they began to show signs of intelligence and were -kept in ranks. - -We drilled and drilled, day after day, until finally we had the -satisfaction of heading a poorly armed, but fairly well organized, set -of men. - -During this period we had several times had news of Berkley Harrison. He -and my sister were apparently married and living happily together at -Norfolk, but strange to say not a letter or word came direct from either -of them. Of Will Byrd and Sam there had been no trace since they went -aboard the frigate the evening I left the Hall. Barron sent several -messengers to Norfolk to find out their whereabouts, but to no purpose. - -Whenever I had time to spare from the camp, I usually came over to see -my mother and cousin Marion. Miss Carter had seldom put in appearance -until the day Snake in the Grass brought the news of Harrison and my -sister living so happily together. Then her manner toward me instantly -changed, and instead of being out of sight she always put in appearance -whenever I called at my aunt's house. This amused me not a little, but I -was not ready to indulge her whims too quickly, so I put off matters -until I finally became so entangled with my pretty cousin that I was on -the point of doing something foolish. But sometimes unforseen incidents -happen that pull a man out of a drifting current. - -One evening my cousin was not feeling well, so Miss Carter and I took a -long walk around the encampment and visited Lord Dunmore's deserted -palace. As we walked along the sound of a nigger singing arrested our -attention. It was Snake's voice, and his deep bass notes rang weirdly -through the gathering darkness. Snake had a strange habit of fitting all -his feelings into song, and now he sang in deep mournful notes - - - "Dere is trouble ober heah - An' dere's trouble ober dar-r - An' I really do believe dere's trouble everywhar-r - Trouble, troub-ll - Trouble, troub-ll - Oh dere's trouble on de ol' man's mine." - - -We tried to stop him as he rode past us, but he pretended not to see or -hear us, and rode away in the direction of the Major's quarters. - -"Snake has a sorrowful mood upon him this evening," said Miss Carter, -after the singing had died away in the distance. - -"And by the same token, I reckon, there's some bad news ahead," I -answered, "and we might as well go to the Major's and find it out." - -When we reached there, we found that orders had just come for us to move -to Norfolk and take part in the operations against the British. I was -glad the news was no worse, and I must say I felt a great relief, in -spite of those I must leave behind me. - -This was my last evening to spend with my people, and I determined to -know my fate in a certain direction, so I recalled a few things to Miss -Carter that had passed between us. - -"My dear Dick," she said, "you have a most charming cousin. Why don't -you marry her?" - -"In the first place, she would not marry me; and in the second, she is -hardly to my way of thinking," I replied. - -"But you might alter your thoughts and ask her; she is pretty, wealthy, -and a lady born," said Miss Carter. - -"So was your grandmother," I replied, "but that fact does not presuppose -any love for her on my part, charming as she still is. You also have the -qualities you have just mentioned, and you, you only, do I, or can I -ever love." - -"If that is so, I shall be blessed with a most stupid husband," said -Rose--and that was all. I bade her good-night at my aunt's front door -and I think, or rather hope, it was quite dark. Then I went on my way -whistling, as happy as a boy. - -The days that followed in the mud and rain near Norfolk, were -disheartening enough, but I never for an instant despaired. My whole -life seemed filled with a great coming joy, and even old soldiers like -Barron and Bullbeggor wondered at my never-failing spirits. There were -nearly a thousand of us, badly armed and half-frozen men, under the -command of Colonel Woodford, camped at the end of the causeway known as -Great Bridge. It was December, and the weaker men fell away rapidly, -until there were scarcely two hundred able riflemen left in the -trenches on the night of the eighth. - -I was lying in my tent on this night, listening to the rain and thinking -happy thoughts of the joys in store for me when I should return to the -Hall and marry the beautiful girl I loved. Barron slept with me and was -snoring away at a great rate for it was long past midnight. I had just -made up my mind to cease building air-castles and follow his example, -and had fastened the tent flies and stretched myself out comfortably in -my wet blanket, when a noise outside startled me. - -It sounded like the stealthy tread of someone bent on a secret purpose, -which, at this hour and place, would probably be anything but good. - -I reached carefully for my pistol and noiselessly cocked back the -flint, and then stared through the inky darkness toward the tent fly. I -lay listening for a moment or two longer and then was aware of something -moving under the canvas at my side. In an instant I clapped the muzzle -of my pistol to it and called out, "Stop!" - -"For God's sake, take your pistol away and let me in, quick!" said a -well known voice, and the next instant Will Byrd was inside the tent. -Another form followed his and for a moment I was almost smothered by -Sam's embrace. - -"What time is it?" asked Will, quickly. - -"Not quite three, I believe," I answered. "But for heaven's sake, how -did you get"-- - -"Hurry, then, we have just about time," interrupted Will, paying no -attention to my question. "They attack you at daylight. We have just -escaped, and came through the swamp to avoid being taken by these -farmers and held until too late"-- - -"Hello! What's the matter? Who's that?" cried Barron, starting up from -his blanket. - -"Will and Sam," I said, "They've just come over. The grenadier company -from the fort will be on the causeway in an hour." And in less than a -minute all of us were on our way to Colonel Woodford's tent to tell him -the news. - -Little noise was made as we gathered our men at the end of the causeway, -and as we hurried about Will told me, between breaths that my sister -Mary and Harrison were living in the town of Norfolk where Will had been -held close prisoner until an hour or two before. He had failed to gain -the good will of the governor on going back to the frigate after our -flight, and both he and Sam were closely confined. As soon as Sam was -able to work, he was taken out and sent, with a lot of other captured -slaves, to help strengthen the fortifications of the town. - -Here he heard the news of the proposed attack and managed to liberate -Will and escape with him in time to warn us. - -"When was Mary married, and at what church?" I asked breathlessly. - -But Will suddenly turned away and did not answer and, taking an old -musket from a farmer, pretended to be busily engaged in fixing the -flint. - -I was working hard with my men, trying to get an old twelve pounder into -position to sweep the bridge, but the wheels of its carriage were so -rotten and stuck so deeply in the mud, that they finally broke down -completely, leaving the gun useless. - -As the gray dawn of the winter morning deepened, objects began to grow -more distinct. We shivered in our wet clothes and strained our eyes in -the direction of the fort that covered the farthest approach to Great -Bridge. - -Something moved in the dim distance. - -Slowly and surely it drew nearer, and then we saw the head of the -British column coming silently over the long causeway. - -I shook from head to foot with cold and excitement, and was so ashamed -because I did so, I felt like doing something foolish to prove my -courage. It was very trying to stand there on that cold, wet morning and -not even speak above a whisper, or move more than a foot or two, while -that column, with a company of grenadiers in the van, made its way to -within speaking distance of us. - -The enemy was so close that, even in that bad light, the features of the -men were easily distinguished, and their hard, bronzed faces looked -strangely fierce from under their tall grenadier hats. Then a nervous -rifleman on my left blazed off his priming, and the next instant a -hundred rifles rang out from the breastworks into a deep, rolling roar. - -The head of the column seemed to melt away like an icicle in the -sunshine. Men pitched over each other in a tangled heap of guns, arms -and legs. But the rest behind them came steadily onward, firing together -in volleys that sounded like a single report. - -Our line fairly flamed with rifle flashes, and the men yelled and -shouted at each discharge, until the blending of yells and musket firing -became almost deafening. - -Suddenly the column wavered. Then backward it went and appeared almost -on the point of breaking. Officers waved their swords and shouted -furiously at the men, and like the gallant soldiers they were, they -closed up and came onward again with a scorching fire that seemed to -fairly fill the air with flying lead. - -A bullet cut the coon-skin cap from the head of an old hunter at my -elbow, but he never even winced, and coolly bit the end off his -cartridge and rammed the lead home as if making ready to fire at a -target. - -They were within twenty paces of us now, and I fired my pistols with the -certain knowledge that the bullets would strike within an inch of the -spot at which I aimed. The officer leading the grenadiers sprang forward -upon the breastwork, gave a shout to his men, and then, waving his -sword, he brought it down with a sweep at my head. He was a brave -fellow, and I did not know it was Fordyce until after my pistol bullet -had passed through his body and he had rolled back among his men. - -It was now almost hand to hand fighting, and the hot blasts of the -muskets, firing in our faces, scorched the skin and blinded us so that -nothing could be seen a few feet distant, but we had the advantage of -only having to expose our faces, whereas the enemy had to stand to it in -full view. - -I saw Colonel Woodford ride past the line within a foot of me, sitting -his horse easily in full view of the enemy, but he remained untouched. - -The fight raged fiercely, but our men refused to be dislodged. The -grenadiers were forced backward on the causeway, where they rallied -upon the tory infantry coming to their support, and in a moment the -smoke cleared away enough to see them forming for another desperate -charge. - -Again and again did they storm that line of riflemen, and each time they -were repulsed and forced onto the causeway. Then, with great precision, -they closed up and drew away, firing steadily as they went, the tory -infantry leading. - -A great shout went up from our victorious soldiers, and Colonel Bullet -leaped, sword in hand, over the breastworks and called for the men to -follow him. Bullbeggor pushed forward on the right, and led half a score -of men onto the causeway, but the British fired so steadily, and kept -their formation so well, that Colonel Woodford would not risk any -mishap to mar so grand a victory. The men were recalled, in spite of the -gallant Bullet's protests, but the rifle fire was kept up from the -breastwork until the enemy was well across and out of range. All along -the line of that long causeway they dropped from the ranks before the -murderous fire of those Virginians, and when they at last gained the -protection of the guns of their fort on the other side, there was not -one grenadier left unhit. The rest of them broke and became a -disorganized mob, making for shelter where it could be found, while the -way now being clear the fort opened a heavy fire that soon kept our men -under cover. - -When I had time to look about me I was astonished at the small number -of our wounded. In that hot fire it seemed to me that nearly everyone -must get hit. But the poor light and breastworks had saved us many -lives, and our victory was not robbed of its joy by the presence of many -dead and wounded comrades. Not over a score of our men were hit, and -only a few of these casualties resulted fatally. Barron had his coat cut -in three places by balls, for he had exposed himself unnecessarily, and -Bullbeggor had lost his hat and was bleeding from a scratch on his -forehead where a grenadier had made a pass at him with his bayonet and -then fired. The steel had cut the skin, but the bullet had missed and -the discharge had blackened the Major's face until it was the color of -his servant's. Snake wished to attend his master, but the Major waved -him back and insisted on taking no notice of his hurt. He stalked up and -down the line of men, with his drawn sword held before him, stopping now -and then to see that a rifle was properly primed, or that the men did -not flinch too much from the artillery fire and become disorganized in -case of a renewal of the attack. - -Finally the fire of the fort slacked up, and then ceased altogether, and -we were able to go about unmolested. Twenty dead grenadiers lay piled up -at our end of the causeway, their red coats stained with blood and dirt. -Then, as the fever of the fight died away in our veins, we looked out -upon those silent corpses and began to realize the grim glory of war. -Will joined me then and we shook hands silently over our success, and -afterwards we started to do what we could for our wounded men. - - - - -CHAPTER XI - - -Shortly after the battle of Great Bridge the British evacuated Norfolk, -and we followed hard upon their heels. Will and I happened to be -together in the company that first entered the town, and we had some hot -skirmishing before we got well into the streets. - -He had told me little in regard to Harrison and my sister, but his sad -face and silent manner spoke plainer than words the thoughts which were -uppermost in his mind. Since the morning he crawled into my tent I had -refrained from asking any more questions. - -We had become separated from our men in a smart rally about a tory -house, whose inhabitants had fired upon us and then fled, but Will -continued to lead the way rapidly through the main streets toward that -portion of the city where resided the most prominent followers of Lord -Dunmore. - -Even as we appeared in the streets people fled towards the water front, -where the boats of the men of war were plying back and forth, taking the -fugitives aboard in great numbers. Suddenly Will stopped at a corner and -looked sharply across the street at a house whose closed blinds gave it -a deserted appearance. - -Almost instantly the front door opened and Berkley Harrison walked out. -He saw us and turned towards us for an instant; then bowing politely he -made his way down the street. - -"Stop! Hold on!" I cried, and I ran across to intercept him. "Wait a -moment, you have something to tell me," I continued as I caught up with -him. - -For answer he drew his sword and stood on guard. Will stood silently -watching us. - -"Hold on!" I cried. "Where is Mary? What do you mean by that?" and I -pointed to his drawn weapon. - -"Miss Judkins is upstairs," he said coldly, and he drew himself up to -his full height, while that scornful smile I knew so well curled his -lips. "If you wish to see her," he continued, "you will probably find -her at home." - -"But, Berk," I cried, "tell me, are you married, and is she going with -you? It's but a step to the frigate's boat and our men will not come -much closer. Tell me all about it, and how you intend to care for my -sister?" - -"You will have to excuse me, Mr. Judkins," said he. "I am not afraid of -your men, but every loyal man has left this town, and I must catch the -last boat to the frigate, where I have business of importance to attend -to." - -Then I realized the horrible truth that had begun to gain upon me since -I noticed Will's suspicious lack of knowledge of Harrison's affairs. I -was satisfied that Will had heard the true rumor of the affair, while he -was confined in prison, and now my wrath swelled beyond my control and -burst forth. - -"You damned villain," I said, almost in a whisper, and I had my sword -before me. - -We went at it; I with my blood afire, he with the coolness of a born -villain, who neither feared nor cared for anything. - -The rasping ring of sliding steel and the noise of our shuffling feet -were heard in the room above us, for in a moment a shutter clanged open -against the wall, and I heard my sister's voice shriek in dismay. - -I turned my head partially to try and see her face and slipped on the -wet pavement. Then I felt something like a bar of hot iron passing -through me and Harrison's cold, villainous face was close to mine. -There was a sickening catching of the breath, but I sat my teeth hard -as the scoundrel withdrew his weapon. Then I reeled and fell to the -pavement. - -But I would not go, quite. Everything seemed to whirl around me, but I -drew my right hand pistol and cocked back the flint with fast weakening -fingers. Harrison appeared in a fog, and to be going up a steep hill -close to me, and then suddenly to be descending a frightful declivity as -I raised my weapon slowly. The pavement seemed to heave upward again, -and I marked the look on his craven features--for he knew what he was -facing--and I pulled the trigger with the sight on his heart. - -At that instant something struck the weapon from my hand, and I was -aware of Will Byrd standing over me with his sword outstretched. - -I was going fast, but I drew my left pistol. Harrison was still standing -near me, but appeared to be double. I fired into him but an object -seemed to pass between us and something fell heavily to the pavement. - -Then I thought I saw the villain sheath his sword and bow to me, with -that same sneering smile on his face, and pass away out of sight down -the long street. I tried to raise myself to follow him and got to my -knees, then I pitched forward-- - -It was late in the evening when I regained consciousness, and found -myself lying on a cot in a house which appeared to be an improvised -hospital, as there were many wounded men about me. A wet compress lay -upon my chest and each breath I took caused me sharp pain. I looked at -the cot next to mine and noticed a familiar figure reclining there, and -as I did so it sat up. Then I recognized Will Byrd, but could not tell -how either he or I came to be where we were. - -He saw my eyes open, and gazed sadly and thoughtfully at me; then he -spoke. - -"How is it Dick, do you feel better?" he asked. - -"Yes," I whispered, "are you hurt too?" - -"No, why?" - -"What are you lying there for?" Then I suddenly remembered. "Where's -Harrison?" I asked faintly, as the affair came back to me. - -Will looked thoughtfully at me without speaking, and the expression of -deep sadness came over his face again. - -"Where is he?" I whispered. - -"His body was thrown into a trench with some others outside the town," -answered Will. - -"Then you killed him? Or was it a dream, what?" I gasped. - -"Don't try to talk, Dick. You remember you shot him, don't you? Hit him -through the body. I knocked your first pistol away, for your sister's -sake, but you fired again before I could stop you. Don't talk any more -and you will come out all right. - -"There's not much dream about the whole business, I only wish there -was." - - - - -CHAPTER XII - - -The evacuation of Norfolk by the British practically ended the war for a -time in Virginia, and Dunmore soon sailed away never to return. - -In a couple of weeks I was on my feet again, very little the worse for -the wound Harrison had given me. - -Will had been with me all the time and Barron and the Major spent nearly -all their spare hours in the hospital. - -The companies had now begun to disband, that is all except those who -volunteered to join Washington's army at the north. - -Colonel Woodford gave over his command to Colonel Howe, of North -Carolina, and after that he did little else than receive the praise he -had so well earned. Everywhere he was feted and applauded, until even -the tories began to come over to his way of thinking. - -My company broke up and the men either went home or joined other -commands, and I was given indefinite leave on account of my wound. Will, -who held no commission, made ready to go with me to Judkins' Hall. - -Now that the fighting was over, Major Bullbeggor appeared to suffer -acutely, and I made up my mind that the only thing that would save the -old soldier's life would be for him to join the army in the north. - -"It's no use, Dick, my boy," said he, the day before I left him. "I -have these pains a'shooting all through me and a vertigris in the skull. -Why, I wouldn't be able to stand anything in that cold climate. This -twitching of the nerves and numbing of the bones certainly means -disintegration, sir; yes, sir, it certainly does mean something. Go and -get married, Dick, and try to get Will to join the army in the north. He -will make a splendid soldier, for there's nothing so desperate and -dangerous in a fight as a man crossed in love." - -"But, Major," I said, "you know the army needs just such men as you to -guide them in military affairs. It's your duty to go where your country -calls for you when you are a soldier." - -"I have a wife and six young children, Dick, all of them mostly ailing. -I've tried Miranda Jones' spring medicine, and all of them have had Dr. -McGuire bleed them until they could stand it no longer, but it didn't do -any good. They are all dependent on me. Who would pay for their -medicines if I should happen to fall ill and die?" - -"They would probably be much better off if such an accident did happen -to you," I answered, laughing. "It's about time you let them alone. I -certainly think you ought to volunteer, or better still, raise a company -with Will and myself in it. Then, with Sam and Snake to look out for us, -we might operate to some advantage." - -"I'll think of it, Dick. I'll think of it, but I must go now to -headquarters. Good-bye!" And his lean hand closed upon mine with a -hearty grip. Then he took the bridle of his mare from Snake and vaulted -lightly into the saddle. In a moment he and his servant had disappeared -around the corner of the street. - -I wended my way to the house where Will and I were stopping and made -ready for our journey. - -The next day about dusk we landed at the Hall. - -Of course it is needless for me to say much about our welcome, but my -poor mother's joy at seeing us again was nothing to her sorrow when Will -had told the painful details of my affair with Harrison. After Miss -Carter heard the details of the fight she appeared to regard me with -secret horror for a few days, but then I knew all women were much set -against violence. - -"But where is Mary now?" my mother asked of Will, after she had regained -herself. - -"Nothing could induce her to remain in sight of Dick," said Will, "so -she sailed for England on one of Dunmore's vessels the day we entered -Norfolk." And that was the last time I ever heard him mention my -sister's name for years. - -Rose was not a very joyous bride a couple of weeks later, but her -tenderness and thoughtfulness made up for the lack of passionate love, -which I felt sure she would develop as the years went by, and the -memory of Harrison faded from her mind. - -One day, about a month after we were married, I went to the stables to -see about my horses getting their salt properly. As I stood at the -stable window, looking out towards the slave quarters, I saw Will Byrd -standing at the curve of the carriage drive, gazing steadily at a slave -woman who held a shining black pickaninny in her arms. The slave woman -sat under a tree and dangled some plaything over the child's face and -crooned to it. The day was cold, and I thought it strange that the woman -should sit there with the child, even though the little thing was -carefully wrapped up in a shawl. - -Will was evidently to my way of thinking, for he gazed steadily at the -child, and that strange look of deep sadness came over his face like I -had noticed before in the hospital at Norfolk. Then he turned and walked -slowly away, with his eyes cast upon the ground in front of him. Rose, -who always looks after the people, then came out of the house and went -straight toward the slave woman. She was evidently much upset at her -carelessness in exposing the child so long to the weather, for she bent -tenderly over it and kissed it, and then sent the woman away. - -Ten minutes later, while I was walking through the grounds, attending to -some necessary repairs, I saw the woman again, sitting now on the low -stone fence that separated mine from the now deserted Harrison -plantation. I walked up to her and reproved her sharply for keeping a -year old child out so long in such cold weather. - -"What is its name?" I asked. - -"Marse Berk Harrison," she answered. - -"Let me see him," I said, and I took hold of the child's arm to see if -he was good and fat. It was a common practice to name slave children -after the families to whom they belonged. Then I pinched the child's fat -cheeks and a lot of black stuff, like burnt cork, came off on my hand, -showing a white skin beneath it. - -"Is he white?" I asked in astonishment. - -"Oh, yes, Marse Judkins, he's white, but we keeps him black, 'cause I -has to take him so much with me to the quarters at the Hall." - -"Who is his mother?" - -"'Deed I don't know, Marse Judkins. Poor Miss Jude Berry over to the -forks, I believe, but she's daid now this year gone--no two, last -month--but her folks give him to me to raise, 'cause I lives at his -uncles, an' they tole me to keep him black till he able to shift for -hisself." - -"Don't bring him to my quarters again," I said, and I handed her two -pieces of gold. That is all. Perhaps it is enough. The whole horrible -truth dawned upon me and I staggered away. - -A week later Will insisted that he had stayed out his visit at the -Hall, and would join the army for the campaign against the British on -Long Island, near New York. The same day Major Bullbeggor sent me an -express that he would stop at the Hall and get Will and myself to help -organize a company for Washington's army. He and Barron rode in a little -later, accompanied by Snake in the Grass. The Major's face was most -peculiarity marked and tattooed by the explosion of the grenadier's -musket at the Great Bridge fight, and my mother hardly recognized him. - -We made our preparations for departure within a few hours, and, -accompanied by Sam and Snake, rode away from the Hall. - -All the field hands were grouped at the end of the carriage drive to -wish us good-bye, while my sweet wife Rose and poor mother stood on the -verandah and bade us a tearful farewell. God knows how my heart went out -to that dear wife, as I saw her standing there with the sunshine playing -on her hair and her eyes moist. But she smiled bravely and waved her -handkerchief to us, and Snake nodded furiously in return until we rode -slowly out of sight. - - - - -+-------------------------------------------------+ -|Transcriber's note: | -| | -|Obvious typographic errors have been corrected. | -| | -+-------------------------------------------------+ - - - -***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK RICHARD JUDKINS' WOOING*** - - -******* This file should be named 55832.txt or 55832.zip ******* - - -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: -http://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/5/5/8/3/55832 - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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