He bent over and carried the hand to his lips.
"We must be friends, little Primrose, for now we shall see a good deal of each other, I hope. Will you not give me one smile? As I remember your mother, she was most generous of her sweetness."
"The child is strange of course. And she hath not heard much about you."
"Is it truly my brother?" She glanced up at Madam Wetherill as if not convinced.
"I have no doubt. I think I had an impression at once," smiling. "And when she is better acquainted——"
"But I do not like General Howe to take possession of our city. Patty says the streets are full of redcoats and I cannot go out."
She stiffened herself with great dignity, and now she looked squarely at him out of beautiful eyes.
"Who may Patty be? And you will see that General Howe has a right to be here. He will soon settle the rebels if he keeps on as he has begun."
"I am a rebel. And your general shall not conquer me. He is cruel and wicked!"
"Primrose!" said her aunt, though much amused.