“I was relying upon the muskets captured in the Nancy,” said General Howe, “to supply the gentlemen in General Robertson’s command; also the loyal Irish Volunteers under Captain Forest, and the Fencibles under Colonel Graham, and those whom Colonel Creen Brush, a loyalist from New York, expects to raise. I am greatly gratified by this exhibition of loyalty on the part of the citizens. Doubtless other vessels will soon be here with arms, provided that audacious Captain Manly does not slip out from Marblehead and nab them while the warships are getting up their anchors. I have sent several ships along the shore to obtain supplies if possible, but it seems the madness of the people in revolting against our gracious sovereign is widespread. I learn there are many who are still loyal, but who do not dare to sell provisions through fear of their neighbors.”
“I do not doubt it,” General Ruggles remarked. “If it were not for the presence of the troops, we who are loyal would have a rough time. Even as it is, I see scowls upon the faces of my old-time friends whenever I go along the street.”
“Since I accompanied your excellency to Bunker Hill and manifested my loyalty,” said Captain Coffin, “and especially since I have taken part in organizing the loyal citizens to aid in upholding the government, I find some of my former friends, notably some of the young ladies, shutting their doors in my face.”
“I suppose you can hardly wonder at it?” Ruth remarked.
“Why should they? I have not changed. Everybody knows how I have stood from the beginning,” the captain replied.
“It is not that Captain Coffin is not as agreeable and entertaining as ever, but they regard the king as attempting to deprive the people of their rights and liberties; the appeal to arms has been made; if you actively support his majesty, do you not cut yourself off from their society? Can you expect them to be as gracious as in former days?” said Berinthia.
“Perhaps not, from the standpoint you have taken; but it is rather uncomfortable to have a young lady who has welcomed you to her fireside pass you by on the street as if you were a cold-blooded villain.”
“It comes to this,” said Ruth. “One cannot be loyal to the king, neither to liberty, without suffering for it. Miss Brandon’s brother Tom had to give up his lady-love because he sided with the provincials. Young ladies shut the door in Captain Coffin’s face because he adheres to King George. If his majesty only knew the disturbance he is making over here in love affairs, perhaps he would withdraw the army.”
“Of course he would,” exclaimed General Howe. “I don’t believe that side of the question has ever been laid before him. I am sure, Miss Newville, if you were to go as special envoy and present the case, showing him how the sword is cutting young heartstrings asunder, he would at once issue an order for us to pack up and be off, that the course of true love might run smoothly once more.”