“That is my name.”
“I am extremely sorry, Miss Brandon, to be obliged to execute an order of this kind, but I am directed by Colonel Hardman to take possession of these premises, as you will see by this order,” he said, handing her a paper.
“By what right does Colonel Hardman seize these premises?”
“Well, really—I suppose—because you are a—a rebel, you know,” the lieutenant replied.
“How does he know that I am a rebel?”
“I don’t mean exactly that. Of course, you are not in arms personally against his majesty, King George, but then, the people are, you know.”
“You mean, that because the king’s troops began a war, firing upon the people at Lexington and Concord, your colonel proposes to turn me, my invalid father and mother, out of our home, that he may take possession and live in comfort.”
“It is awfully bad business, Miss Brandon, but I can’t help it, you know.”
“I do not doubt, sir, that it is mortifying to you, personally, to be compelled to execute an order of this sort. Please say to Colonel Hardman that this is our home, and we shall not leave it voluntarily. If he desires to occupy it, he will do so only by force of arms.”
The lieutenant took his hat, not knowing what to make of a young lady so calm and self-possessed, who did not cry or wring her hands.