And without another word, Sir Godfrey went into the hall, to pay the double part of commander and host, his words and example soon putting spirit in the disheartened band.
“But we shall have to surrender, Sir Godfrey, shall we not, unless we wait till dark, and then take our horses and try to get away?”
“You may depend upon one thing, gentlemen,” said Sir Godfrey, “the enemy are far stronger than we think. Every path will be carefully guarded, our horses are worn-out, and we are safe to be taken.”
“But we cannot defend this place, sir,” said another.
“Why not? I say, defend it as long as one stone stands upon another.”
“But food—ammunition.”
“Plenty, sir, for a month,” continued the general, “unless all was carried off by our friends. No fear. Their occupation was too short, and we took them too much by surprise. Why, look there,” he said, pointing to one corner of the hall, “there are enough of their pieces there to arm us all. What is it to be, gentlemen? Surrender or fight?”
For answer, hats were tossed in the air, and the carved beams of the roof rang with the hearty cheers of the Cavaliers, and the cry of—
“God save the king!”