Their breakfast was served in a small room where they were
alone together, and when they were seated the Baronet observed:

"I have heard of the duel. It has set some of the best tongues in
England wagging in praise of 'the Yankee boy.' One would scarcely have
expected that."

"No, I was prepared to run for my life--not that I planned to do any
great damage," said Jack.

"You can shoot straight--that is evident. They call your delivery of
that bullet swift, accurate and merciful. Your behavior has pleased
some very eminent people. The blustering talk of the General excites
no sympathy here. In London, strangers are not likely to be treated as
you were."

"If I did not believe that I should be leaving it," said Jack. "I
should not like to take up dueling for an amusement, as some men have
done in France."

"You are a well built man inside and out," Sir Benjamin answered. "You
might have a great future in England. I speak advisedly."

Their talk had taken a turn quite unexpected. It flattered the young
man. He blushed and answered:

"Sir Benjamin, I have no great faith in my talents."

"On terms which I would call easy, you could have fame, honor and
riches, I would say."

"At present I want only your daughter. As to the rest, I shall make
myself content with what may naturally come to me."

"And let me name the terms on which I should be glad to welcome you to
my family."

"What are the terms?"

"Loyalty to your King and a will to understand and assist his plans."

"I could not follow him unless he will change his plans."

The Baronet put down his fork and looked up at the young man. "Do you
really mean what you say?" he demanded. "Is it so difficult for you to
do your duty as a British subject?"

"Sir Benjamin, always I have been taught that it is the duty of a
British subject to resist oppression. The plans of the King are
oppressive. I can not fall in with them. I love Margaret as I love my
life, but I must keep myself worthy of her. If I could think so well
of my conduct, it is because I have principles that are inviolable."

"At least I hope you would promise me not to take up arms against the
King."

"Please don't ask me to do that. It would grieve me to fight against
England. I hope it may never be, but I would rather fight than submit
to tyranny."

The Baronet made no reply to this declaration so firmly made. A new
look came into his face. Indignation and resentment