"Can't help it. It's the only thing we can do."
The train was now thoroughly searched and many of the wagons were found to contain cloth, boots and shoes, and a goodly quantity of powder and shot. All such articles were destroyed and the wagons burnt. The prisoners looked on sullenly.
Lawrence noticed there was a scarcity of provisions, and inquired what it meant. One of the prisoners told him they were suffering from hunger, but had been told they would find plenty of food here in the valley of the La Belle. "We 'uns be jes' starvin'," said the prisoner.
"I will see what I can do," said Lawrence. "If there is food here you will surely get it."
About this time Mr. Chittenden appeared. There had been great excitement at the house when it was known that the Yankees were in the valley and had succeeded in capturing the train. Mr. Chittenden feared that if it became known that he had gathered supplies for the South, not only would he be arrested, but his home and buildings burned.
"I reckon," he said to Grace, "that I will ride down and see what force it is, and who is in command."
"Don't go, father," begged Grace. "You know what you have been doing."
"It is best, Grace. They may not find it out, and if they do, it won't mend matters for me to stay here."
"But, father, you can take to the hills until they are gone."
"What! Leave you here unprotected? Never!"