“We shall not go. I do not propose to let the redcoats make themselves at home in this house,” said Berinthia to the sergeant who asked if the family would like to leave the town.
“What will you live on? Butcher Thurbal, whom General Howe has appointed to take charge of all the cattle, says he has but six left, and here it is December, with winter only just begun. You will starve before spring,” the sergeant replied.
“We have a little flour, and there is a bit of mackerel; a layer of pork is still left in the barrel. We will not go till the last mouthful of food is gone,” Berinthia said resolutely.
The knocker rattled.
“One of Massa Genral Howe’s ossifers,” said Mark Antony.
A young lieutenant entered; but seeing a fair-faced young lady he removed his cap.
“I would like to see the mistress of the house,” he said.
“I am mistress. What is it you wish?”
“I come to inform you that Colonel Hardman desires to occupy these premises for himself and staff, of which I have the honor to be a member. I am directed to inform you that you can have twenty-four hours to effect your removal.”[75]
“Colonel Hardman desires to take our house, does he?”