Char. Is there nothing we can do to stop them? Stay, they'll come here to the house; we'll lock them out.
[Enter Marthy and Cupid.
Marthy. We grabbed up what we could an' shuved de ches' onder de baid.
[Gives key.
Mrs. S. Here, let me lock the door. (She locks the door; puts key in her pocket). We'll stand here on the porch. Now, children, keep close by me; they shall not harm you. If only we can keep them!
[They stand in a little group on the porch, Cupid with an ax, and he and Marthy behind the others.
A Man's Voice. Here, this way!
Another. Here's the house!
Another. Come on!
[Enter a party of Union soldiers headed by Corporal Evans, an insolent young fellow of about twenty-five. He has a very boisterous manner, giving his orders with a swagger.