embers received
him with the courtesy due to his rank. Before that body, with armed men
at his back, he demanded a formal surrender of the precious charter into
his hands.

The members of the assembly were alarmed and amazed at his request.

The day was well nigh spent, when he arrived, and the members were
engaged in a heated debate on a subject of the utmost importance.

"Wait until the discussion is ended, and then we will listen to you,
governor," the president of the assembly answered to the demand of
Andros.

"I have come for the charter, and I will have it!" said Andros, in his
haughty, imperious manner.

He consented, however, to await the discussion; but as soon as it was
ended, he declared that he would have the charter.

Captain Wadsworth chanced to be at his house on the arrival of Andros,
and, as everybody had the most implicit confidence in the captain's good
sense, a member was despatched for him, as has been stated.

After the captain had taken two or three turns across the room, he
paused and asked:

"What is the assembly doing?"

"Engaged in a debate."

"And will he wait until it has ended?"

"He has promised to do so."

"Hasten back, Mr. Prince, and whisper in the ears of every member to
prolong the debate. It will give us time. I am going to do something
desperate. Tell them to discuss any side and every side of the question
at issue, and have your longest speech-makers do their best--talk on
anything and everything whether to the point or against it, so that they
kill time until night."

Mr. Prince fixed his amazed eyes on the captain's face and read there a
desperate determination.

"Captain," he began.

"I know what you would say, Mr. Prince; but it is needless to waste
words; my resolution is formed, and I am going to save our charter or
perish in the attempt."

"I hope you will not endanger your own life----"

"Mr. Prince, our liberties are in danger, and there is no time to think
of life. Hasten back to the assembly and I will follow in a few
moments."

Mr. Prince bowed and hastily returned to the house where the assembly
was in session. As soon as he was gone, Charles Stevens said:

"Uncle, something terrible is going to happen, I know from your look and
words. Won't you let me go with you?"

Captain Wadsworth fixed his eyes on the youth and answered:

"Yes, Charles, you will answer."

"What do you mean, uncle?"

"Are you willing to help us?"

"I am."

"Then