"I felt it a duty, as one who has gained experience in arms by some
practice in the wars of Europe," he said, "to tarry in thy dwelling while
danger threatened from the lurking savage. It would ill become soldiers to
speak of their intentions; but had the alarm in truth sounded, thou wilt
give faith, when I say that the block-house would not have been lightly
yielded! I shall make report to them that sent me, that in Captain Mark
Heathcote, Charles hath a loyal subject, and the Constitution a firm
supporter. The rumors, of a seemingly mistaken description, which have led
us hither, shall be contradicted; and doubtless it will be found, that
some accident hath given rise to the deception. Should there be occasion
to dwell on the particulars of the late alarm, I trust the readiness of my
followers to do good service to one of the King's subjects will not be
overlooked."
"It is the striving of an humble spirit to speak nought evil of its
fellows, and to conceal no good," returned the reserved Puritan. "If thou
hast found thy abode in my dwelling to thy liking, thou art welcome; and
if duty or pleasure calleth thee to quit it, peace go with thee.
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