t least magnanimity enough left in the
old Governor to induce him to seek some other refuge, rather than to
subject his hospitable and loyal host to the consequences of his
kindness. There was indeed some danger attending such a mission in the
present inflamed state of Berkeley's mind. But this, Hansford held at
naught. Hastily revolving in his mind these thoughts, he ventured to
suggest to Bacon, that an attack upon Colonel Temple's house would
result in the worst consequences to the cause of the patriots; that it
would effect no good, as the Governor might again promise, and again
recant--and, that it would be difficult to induce his followers to
embark in an enterprise so foreign to the avowed object of the
expedition, and against a man whose character was well known, and
beloved by the people of the Colony.

Bacon calmly heard him through, as though struck with the truth of the
views he presented, and then added with a sarcastic smile, which stung
Hansford to the quick, "and moreover, the sight of soldiers and of
fire-arms might alarm the ladies."

"And, if such a motive as that did influence my opinion," said Hansford,
"I hope it was neither unworthy a soldier or a man."

"Unworthy alike of both," replied Bacon, "of a soldier, because the will
and command of his superior officer should be his only law--and of a
man, because, in a cause affecting his rights and liberties, any
sacrifice of feeling should be willingly and cheerfully made."

"That sacrifice I now make," said Hansford, vainly endeavouring to
repress his indignation, "in not retorting more harshly to your
imputation. The time may yet come when no such sacrifice shall be
required, and when none, I assure you, shall be made."

"And, when it comes, young man," returned Bacon, haughtily, "be assured
that I will not be backward in affording you an opportunity of defending
yourself--meantime you are under my command--and will please remember
that you are so. But, gentlemen," he continued, turning to the others,
"what say you to our conduct in these circumstances. Shall we proceed to
Powhatan, against the enemy of a country to which we are traitors, or
shall we march on this mendacious old Knight, and once again wipe off
the stigma which he has placed upon our names?"

"I think," said Lawrence, after a pause of some moments, "that there is
a good deal of truth in the views presented by Major Hansford. But,
could not some middle course be adopted. I don't