ncials, I must admit, show far greater
zeal than is seen in the king's navy."

"It is commonly remarked that the navy is not doing much," said
General Ruggles.

"The army, although it is not marching into the country, is far more
active, judging from the firing which I hear through the day,"
Berinthia remarked.

General Howe scanned her face, wondering if there was not a trifle of
sarcasm in the words. He knew he was being criticised by the Tories
for his inactivity; that Admiral Graves and the officers of the navy
were asking when the army was going to scatter Mr. Washington's
rabble.

"I was relying upon the muskets captured in the Nancy," said General
Howe, "to supply the gentlemen in General Robertson's command; also
the loyal Irish Volunteers under Captain Forest, and the Fencibles
under Colonel Graham, and those whom Colonel Creen Brush, a loyalist
from New York, expects to raise. I am greatly gratified by this
exhibition of loyalty on the part of the citizens. Doubtless other
vessels will soon be here with arms, provided that audacious Captain
Manly does not slip out from Marblehead and nab them while the
warships are getting up their anchors. I have sent several ships along
the shore to obtain supplies if possible, but it seems the madness of
the people in revolting against our gracious sovereign is widespread.
I learn there are many who are still loyal, but who do not dare to
sell provisions through fear of their neighbors."

"I do not doubt it," General Ruggles remarked. "If it were not for the
presence of the troops, we who are loyal would have a rough time. Even
as it is, I see scowls upon the faces of my old-time friends whenever
I go along the street."

"Since I accompanied your excellency to Bunker Hill and manifested my
loyalty," said Captain Coffin, "and especially since I have taken part
in organizing the loyal citizens to aid in upholding the government, I
find some of my former friends, notably some of the young ladies,
shutting their doors in my face."

"I suppose you can hardly wonder at it?" Ruth remarked.

"Why should they? I have not changed. Everybody knows how I have stood
from the beginning," the captain replied.

"It is not that Captain Coffin is not as agreeable and entertaining as
ever, but they regard the king as attempting to deprive the people of
their rights and liberties; the appeal to arms has been made; if you
actively support his majesty, do you not cut yourself off fro