Ruth, keeping watch, saw a squad of men. One of them rattled the knocker.
“What do you wish?” she asked, raising a window.
“I am commissioned to search for property belonging to the crown.”
“Who are you?”
“I am a lieutenant in the command of Colonel Brush.”
“I do not recognize your authority, neither that of Colonel Brush nor General Howe, who has taken his departure.”
“I shall be under the necessity of entering by force if you do not open the door.”
“You will do so at your peril.”
“Break down the door, men!”