ndred Indians, and as many regulars, will make an
army of about eight thousand."

"How large a force do you imagine the French have at Duquesne?" inquired
Fairfax.

"Not over one-third of our number. Perhaps not more than one-quarter as
many. If the Assembly will be as liberal in supplying the Virginia
soldiers with clothing, rations, arms, blankets, etc., as General
Abercrombie has been, it will be a wise economy, as well as commendable
patriotism."

Washington was in Williamsburg at the time, for the purpose of laying
before a committee of the Legislature the wants of his little army, and
securing liberal supplies. On his way thither an incident occurred which
should be narrated here.

Passing through the county of New Kent, on his way to Williamsburg,
Washington approached the baronial estate of Mr. Chamberlain. The
proprietor was near his front gate, and, recognizing Washington, who was
accompanied by his servant, saluted him, saying:

"Colonel Washington, let it never be said that you passed the house of
your father's friend without dismounting. I must insist upon the honor
of detaining you as my guest."

"I thank you with all my heart, my dear sir, but my business at
Williamsburg demands haste, and you must excuse me to-day," was
Washington's reply.

"Business relating to the expedition against Fort Duquesne, I suppose?"

"Yes; and its importance admits of no delay."

"Nevertheless, I must press my invitation," continued Mr. Chamberlain,
"for surely you must dine somewhere, and it will detain you no longer
here than elsewhere. We will not detain you a moment after you have
swallowed your dinner. I am too much interested in the capture of
Duquesne to delay your business."

"Your patriotism is equal to your hospitality," replied Washington, "and
I am quite disposed to accept both, in the circumstances."

"In that case you will accept my hearty thanks, also," added Mr.
Chamberlain.

"Do I understand that I may be excused immediately after dinner?" said
Washington, still hesitating.

"Immediately, with all the promptness of military discipline."

"Then, sir, I accept your generous hospitality;" and Washington alighted
from his horse immediately, saying to his servant Bishop, "Be sure and
have the horses at the door by the time we rise from the dinner-table."

"Is this the charger and this the servant presented to you by General
Braddock?" Mr. Chamberlain inquired as they turned towards the house.