"We'll see what General Lafayette thinks about it," and Jacob spoke in a tone of irritation, after which he relapsed into silence, not venturing to speak again until the little party had arrived at an encampment completely surrounding a small farmhouse, before which the officers drew rein.
Sentries were pacing to and fro in front of the building, and the boys understood that they were at General Lafayette's quarters, the owner of which was the person who had sent information to the British commander.
Not until after considerable parley were they admitted to a room strewn with military accouterments, in the center of which stood a table bearing the remnants of a meal.
Here they were forced to wait several moments, after which a young, not particularly prepossessing-looking man entered, only partially dressed.
The two officers saluted him with evident respect, while Jacob and Enoch showed signs of dissatisfaction.
It did not seem possible to them that this boyish-appearing officer could be the famous Frenchman of whom they had heard so much, and both were sadly disappointed, because, as they believed, an interview with the commander himself was to be denied them.
"This is General Lafayette," one of the officers said to Jacob, "and you can tell him your story."
"This the general?" Master Ludwick cried in amazement.
"You expected to see an old man?" Lafayette asked with a smile.
"Well, I didn't think you was—I mean, it didn't seem—I thought you might—"