“We are not allowed to select jurors. The law takes away our right to assemble in town meeting, except by permission, and then we can only elect selectmen to look after town affairs,” said Tom.
“The people have shown they are not fit to govern themselves,” said Mr. Shrimpton. “They allow the mob to run riot. It was a mob that smashed Chief Justice Hutchinson’s windows. Your gatherings under the Liberty Tree are in reality nothing but mobs; you have no legal authority for assembling. It was a mob that assaulted the king’s troops on the 5th of March; a mob threw the tea into the harbor, and I strongly suspect that Tom Brandon had a hand in that iniquity. The king stands for law and order. The troops are here in the interest of good government, by constituted authority, to enforce the law and put down riots.”
“Just who had a hand in throwing the tea overboard no one can find out, but I am glad it was done,” said Tom.
“So you uphold lawlessness, Mr. Brandon?”
“I stand against the unrighteous acts of Parliament. We will not be slaves; we will not be deprived of our liberties. If King George and Lord North think they can starve the people of this town into submission, they will find themselves mistaken,” said Tom.
“I hope he will compel every one of you to obey the laws, and that whoever had a hand in destroying the tea will suffer for it,” Mr. Shrimpton replied.
Tom saw the smile fade from the countenance of Mary as she listened to the conversation. Her quick insight, and acquaintance with her father’s surly temper, enabled her to see what was withholden from Tom’s slower perception.
“Mary,” said Mr. Shrimpton, after Tom took his departure, “I want you to stop having anything to do with Tom.”
“Why, father?”
“Because I don’t like him.”