ed no one.
Colonel Murray had given strict orders that all private property be
absolutely respected. Nothing but government property was destroyed and
only that which could be construed into war stores and buildings. What
further damage was done was the result of accident or error. Officers
were indeed quartered on the inhabitants, but they paid for what
they got, and even a carpet destroyed by accident was replaced months
afterward by a British officer who had not the means at the time.

So it was agreed that Hubbell with Rolf and the village fathers and
brothers should join their country's army, leaving wives and children
behind.

There were wet bearded cheeks among the strong, rugged men as they
kissed their wives and little ones and prepared to go, then stopped, as
horrible misgivings rose within. "This was war, and yet again, 'We have
had proofs that the British harmed no woman or child'." So they dashed
away the tears, suppressed the choking in their throats, shouldered
their guns, and marched away to the front, commending their dear ones to
the mercy of God and the British invaders.

None had any cause to regret this trust. Under pain of death, Sir George
Prevost enforced his order that the persons of women and children and
all private property be held inviolate. As on the previous raid, no
damage was done to non-combatants, and the only hardships endured were
by the few who, knowing nothing, feared much, and sought the precarious
safety of life among the hills.

Sir George Prevost and his staff of ten officers were quartered in Judge
Hubbell's house. Mrs. Hubbell was hard put to furnish them with meals,
but they treated her with perfect respect, and every night, not knowing
how long they might stay, they left on the table the price of their
board and lodging.

For three days they waited, then all was ready for the advance.

"Now for Plattsburg this week and Albany next, so good-bye, madam" they
said politely, and turned to ride away, a gay and splendid group.

"Good-bye, sirs, for a very little while, but I know you'll soon be back
and hanging your heads as you come," was the retort.

Sir George replied: "If a man had said that, I would call him out; but
since it is a fair lady that has been our charming hostess, I reply that
when your prophecy comes true, every officer here shall throw his purse
on your door step as he passes."

So they rode away, 13,000 trained men with nothing between them and
Alba