"It has not in forty years of service been called in question," replied the old man, stifling his growing shame.
"Nor has mine," said O'Neill, "until this hour. You are her guardian--an old man--your gray hairs should protect you; but 'tis well for you that I have no sword, for I swear I would plunge it first into your heart and then into my own!"
"Think what it is I offer," persisted the other. "Compare it to what you now have in the way of worldly honor. What do you care for that bit of striped bunting and those beggarly rebels who have presumed to declare a republic? What is a republic, anyway, and what function has it in a gentleman's life, pray? What have we to do with the common people? What are their aspirations to you? What affiliations have you for that low-born gardener, turned pirate and buccaneer to ravage our coasts, dishonor our flag? This is the kingdom in which you were born. Here your rightful allegiance is due. I offer you, for the giving up of a--sentiment which possesses you, the favor of your king and the hand of the woman you love,--every earthly thing to make you happy. You are an exile, a wanderer, a soldier of fortune. I give you a country again."
"And do you, a man of honor, advise me to--"
"Damnation, sir! I advise nothing, I offer; the decision rests with you."
"Ah, I thought so; and what would you do in my place, sir?"
"I'm not there, thank God!" said the old man, fervently; "and I repeat, you must decide yourself."
"Very good, sir. It is true that I like not that republic, its principles are nothing to me; but I have found that gardener's son a man--ay, a gentleman! You have called me a landless man, an exile, a soldier of fortune,--that, too, is true. But to Captain Jones and his service I have pledged my honor; 'tis all I have; the stars and stripes are become my flag; I wear the uniform, I eat the bread, of the United States. You may break my heart, destroy my life; you cannot break my word. There is not power and place enough in the three kingdoms, no, not even on their throne, not beauty enough even in Elizabeth Howard to tempt me--to compel me to do that. Say no more. You have your answer."