ing home while there seems to be so much
afoot," Amos replied.

"Then come with me, and we'll hope that the intentions of those who
are abroad this night are as peaceable as ours."

It was destined, however, that they should not partake of the provisions
which Jim's brother had stored for such an occasion as this.

On arriving at John Gray's place of business, a party numbering twenty
or thirty, led by Attucks, with Master Piemont's assistant by his
side, was seen marching toward the Custom House, shouting and hooting,
as if to prove their courage by much noise.

"It is by such as them that mischief may be done," Amos said, in a low
tone. "Hardy Baker cares not what statements he makes, so long as he
appears to be considered a leader," and he concluded by telling Sam
the story of the attack made the previous Saturday afternoon.

"I grant you the barber's apprentice is a dangerous sort of a lad to be
loose at a time like this. Nevertheless, there are reputable citizens
who believe the moment has come when we should stand for our rights, and
what such as Hardy Baker may succeed in bringing about, through their
folly, will perchance aid the righteous cause. We will follow them."

"To what purpose?"

"In order to learn if there is any preconcerted action among them. It
was whispered at Liberty Hall late this afternoon that arrangements
had been made for a demonstration in front of the barracks, and I
would be there if such is made."

"But do you believe in anything of that kind?" Amos asked, in surprise.

"Certainly I do, my lad. If Governor Hutchinson insists it is not the
desire of reputable citizens that the soldiers be sent away, it seems
necessary he should be convinced of his mistake, and--"

"Surely Hardy Baker and Attucks, and their following, would not be
taken for reputable citizens?"

"True, lad, but at the same time they echo the sentiments of even such
men as Master Samuel Adams. Do you observe that in all this excitement
no one in authority among us has advised that we remain quiet? It
appears to me they are willing matters should take their course, and
will not attempt to prevent the hotheads, hoping that through
unreasoning violence good shall come."

Amos, remembering all he had heard since the murder of little Chris,
began to believe Jim's brother was correct in his statement. He knew
full well that if Master Samuel Adams or Master John Hancock requested
the citizens to desist from gathering