"I am willing to give you so much information as that; but no more, for I deny that any person, save the king's representatives, have the right to question me. We are lately from Hillsborough."
The two strangers exchanged glances, and he who had first spoken said quietly:
"I have heard that the good people near there talk of banding together to resist the king's officers in their duty of collecting lawful taxes."
"It can now be seen how much the governor's secretary meant when he gave us such fair promises," Sidney whispered. "Edwards himself has sent these fellows in advance to prevent us from going to Brunswick."
There was much the same thought in my own mind; but I made no answer just then, for the very good reason that Master Hunter was replying to what was little less than a question.
"Our people have banded together; but it is for the purpose of declaring ourselves against unlawful taxation."
"And you are one of the so-called Regulators, I may suppose?" the stranger said with a sneer.
Sidney and I moved nearer until we were almost side by side with our deputies, for now did it seem certain that we were fallen upon those who would make trouble.
"We have not come out either for the purpose of discussing politics with strangers, or indulging in a brawl," Master Hunter said stoutly, drawing his pistols deliberately. "It is our purpose to ride forward without too great delay, and if you oppose us the blood which is shed will be upon your heads."
"Might it not interest you to know who we are?" the stranger asked menacingly.