all, is at the service of the king
and of his representative; but I question how far we are warranted in
proceeding to extremities with this youth, seeing that although he is
rather froward and pert in his manners, he may yet mean well after all."

"Experience should have taught me," replied Berkeley, coldly, for his
evil genius was now thoroughly aroused, "not to place too much
confidence in the loyalty of the people of Gloucester. If Colonel
Temple's resolution to aid the crumbling power of the government has
wavered at the sight of a malapert and rebellious boy, I had better
relieve him of my presence, which must needs have become irksome to
him."

"Nay, Sir William," returned Temple, reddening at the imputation, "you
shall not take my language thus. Let the youth speak for himself; if he
breathes a word of treason, his blood be on his own head--my hand nor
voice shall be raised to save him. But I am unable to construe any thing
which he has yet said as treasonable." Then turning to Hansford, he
added, "speak, Mr. Hansford, plainly and frankly. What was your object
in thus coming? Were you sent by General Bacon, or did you come
voluntarily?"

"Both," replied Hansford, with a full appreciation of the old man's
unfortunate position. "It was my proposition that some officer of the
army should wait upon the Governor, and ascertain the truth of his
rumoured proclamation. I volunteered to discharge the duty in person."

"And in the event of your finding it to be true," said Berkeley,
haughtily, "what course did you then intend to pursue?"

This was a dangerous question; for Hansford knew that to express the
design of the insurgents in such an event, would be little less than a
confession of treason. But he had a bold heart, and without hesitation,
but still maintaining his respectful manner, he replied,--

"I might evade an answer to your question, by saying, that it would then
be time enough to consider and determine our course. But I scorn to do
so, even when my safety is endangered. I answer candidly then, that in
such an event the worst consequences to the country and to yourself
would ensue. It was to prevent these consequences, and as far as I could
to intercede in restoring peace and quiet to our distracted colony, that
I came to implore you to withdraw this proclamation. Otherwise, sir, the
sword of the avenger is behind you, and within two days from this time
you will be compelled once more to yield to a cu