AN EXCHANGE OF COURTESIES
"A narrow escape that for you, Lieutenant," said Jones. "But she was a plucky lass, and now it is time for us to be looking for cover."
He turned down a narrow, quiet street until we came to a house set somewhat back in the yard.
Jones now rapped very gently on the door; it swung open as if he was expected, and a moment later we found ourselves heartily welcomed by an old Quaker lady in a little room with a bright fire burning.
"I thought thee would come, Brother Jones," said she, "and who is this braw lad thou hast brought with thee?" And she smiled on me.
"He is one of our Lieutenants, who has a sweetheart in town, and is willing to risk his neck to see her," said Jones gruffly, but there was a twinkle in his eye.
This completed my conquest, and the motherly old soul proceeded to take charge of me.
"Who is thy lady love thou hast come to see?" And when I told her that she was a Tory she was much distressed, but eager to help me.
"The Good Book says thou must not fight, but it also says thou must help thy friends and neighbours, so I will help thee."
But at last, after chattering awhile she took a candle and showed us to our rooms. I was soon lost in the almost blissful comfort of clean white sheets and a feather-bed.