aith with these misguided persons have, but to
exasperate them?--and when once aroused, and once deceived, be assured
that all attempts at reconciliation will be vain. I speak plainly, but I
do so because not only your own safety, but the peace and prosperity of
the colony are involved in your decision. Were not the broken pledges of
that unhappy Stuart, to whom you have referred, the causes of that
fearful revolution which alienated the affections of his subjects and at
length cost him his life? Charles Stuart has not died in vain, if, by
his death and his sufferings, he has taught his successors in power that
candour, moderation and truth are due from a prince to his people. But,
alas! what oceans of blood must be shed ere man will learn those useful
lessons, which alone can ensure his happiness and secure his authority."

"Zounds, Ballard," said the incensed old ruler, "you have mistaken your
calling. I have not heard so fine a sermon this many a day, and, 'fore
God, if you will only renounce politics, and don gown and cassock, I
will have you installed forthwith in my dismal Hutchinson's living.
But," he added, more seriously, as the smile of bitter derision faded
from his lips, "I well e'en tell you that you have expressed yourself a
matter too freely, and have forgotten what you owe to position and
authority."

"I have forgotten neither, sir," said Ballard, firmly but calmly. "I owe
respect to position, even though I may not have it for the man who holds
that position; and when authority is abused, I owe it alike to myself
and to the people to check it so far as I may."

The flush of passion mounted to the brow of Berkeley, as he listened to
these words; but with a violent effort he checked the angry retort which
rose to his lips, and turning to the rest of the council, he said:

"Well, gentlemen, I will submit the proposition to you. Shall the
commission of General of the forces of Virginia be granted to Nathaniel
Bacon?"

"Nay, Governor," interposed another of the council, "we would know
whether you intend--"

"It is of my actions that you must advise. Leave my motives to me. What
do you advise? Shall the commission be granted?"

"Aye," was responded in turn by each of the councillors at the board,
and at the same moment the heavy tramp of approaching footsteps was
heard, and Bacon, attended by Lawrence, Bland and Hansford, entered the
chamber.

The council remained seated and covered, and preserved the