the utmost gallantry
and resolution. And he had as a companion in arms in that brave
attempt Sir George Talbot, one of our ancestors. There is an example
for you. I have often heard you speak with the greatest respect of
George Washington."

"It is true, my son," she replied honestly, "but I am at a loss to
fathom his motive. What can it be?"

"Mother, I am persuaded of the purity of his motives; his actions
spring from the very highest sense of his personal obligation to the
cause of liberty."

"'Liberty, liberty,' 't is a weak word when matched with loyalty. But
be this as it may, my son, it is beside the question. Our family,
these men and women who look down upon us, all fought for principles of
royalty. It makes no difference whether or no they fought for or
against one or another king, so long as it was a king they fought for.
Such a thing as a democracy never entered their heads. And if you take
this course, you will be false to every tradition of our past. In my
opinion, the people are not fit to govern, and you will find it so. In
the impious attempt that is being made to reverse what I conceive to be
the divinely appointed polity and law of God, disaster must be the only
end."

"Mother, I must follow my convictions in the present rather than any
examples in the past. But this is a painful discussion. Should we not
best end it? I honor your opinions, I love you, but I must go."

There was a long silence. She broke it. "Well, my child," she said in
despair, "you have reached man's estate, and the men of the Talbot race
have ever been accustomed to do as their judgment dictates. If you
have decided to join Washington's rabble and take part among the rebels
in this fratricidal contest, I shall say no more. I cannot further
oppose you. I cannot give you my blessing--as I might in happier
circumstances--nor can I wish success to your cause. I too am a
Talbot, and have my principles, which I must also maintain; but at
least I can gird your sword about you, and express the hope and make
the prayer, as I do, that you may wear and use it honorably; and that
hope, if you are true to the traditions of our house, will never be
broken,--I feel sure of that, at least."

The young man bent and kissed his mother, a new light shining in his
eyes. "Mother, I thank you. At least, as far as I am concerned, I
will endeavor to do my duty honorably in every field. And now I think,
with your permission, I