As the minister said “amen,” the women sunk into their seats, but the men remained standing, for it was the custom in that early age and country for the people to stand in prayer—not to kneel, as the reverent will, nor to sit, as the indolent do.
There was a brief pause, and the minister said:
“John Bonyton, what is your will in this place?”
“To worship God,” was the brief reply.
“Know you not that a price has been set upon your head, and any man has the right to kill you?”
“Yea, I know it.”
There was a clatter of fire-locks, and a stir of heavy feet, for every man carried his musket into the house of God in those days, and worshiped armed to the teeth.
John Bonyton cast a fiery eye over the assemblage, and waved his hand.
“Tell your people to sit down. I shall stand.”
The minister gave the signal, and the congregation became seated.