so
worshipful a master of courtesy cause to complain of you. As your
wisdom," he added, again addressing the sergeant, "has found out, by
this time, that you are in the house of Mrs. Markham, although you
_disremembered_ that this morning, I suppose you can tell whether she is
at home?"

"I can answer you that she is at home, sir--that is, onless she has went
out sence I saw her, which is not likely, sir."

"Then, present her Colonel Tarleton's respects, and say that he has come
to offer his duty to her."

"I suppose by that, you are wishing to see the lady," replied the
sergeant; "I'll let her know, sir."

Robinson retired for a few moments, and when he returned he announced to
the commander that Mrs Markham was not willing to come from her chamber.
"But whatsomever your honor pleases to ax after, the lady promises you
shall have," continued the sergeant.

"Well, that's a condescension!--a good, comfortable lady! So, gentlemen,
you see we are in luck; a broad roof over head--a larder well stored, I
hope--and a cellar not altogether empty, I think I may undertake to
promise. Where are your waiting-men, my nimble Ganymede? You are a
sluggish oaf, fellow, not to see that soldiers must have drink!"

Alfred and Henry now entered the hall, and the former approaching
Tarleton, said, with a firm but respectful tone:

"My mother has before been visited by British troops, and she had so
little then to thank them for, except their departure, that the fear of
meeting them again has greatly alarmed her. Our family, sir, has no
older man in it than myself--and out of regard to helpless women--"

"That's enough, my pert lad," interrupted Tarleton; "I have heard of
your good mother before; she is somewhat over ready in her zeal in
behalf of Marion's ragamuffins: and truly I think she is more squeamish
than she should be at the sight of a soldier, when she could look upon
such hang-gallows knaves without shuddering. You have another man in
your house, I see (directing his eye towards Henry Lindsay, who had
seated himself in the hall)--and full as old, I take it, as yourself."

"I wish I were a man of full age," said Henry, looking fearlessly at the
British officer, and remaining fixed in his chair.

"Why so, my gay sparrow-hawk?"

"I would have disputed with you your right to enter this door."

"These young cocks are all trained to show their game," said the Colonel
to one of his companions. "Well, you are a fine fellow,