"It was my proposition that Tryon would not dare arrest us in Brunswick; but now we have left that place, he might work his will without the people being any the wiser."
There was in Master Howell's tone that which convinced me he was seriously disturbed by the condition of affairs, and I understood such was really the case when he added:
"I think it is high time we held a conference of war, and one of you lads had best come with me to the front veranda, while the other remains here on guard."
I motioned Sidney to accompany Master Howell, and he, eager to hear all which might be said, readily acceded to the mute suggestion.
In another moment I was alone, peering out into the darkness with every faculty on the alert, and thus I remained until half an hour or more had passed, when my comrade returned.
"Well?" I asked impatiently, burning to learn the result of the conference, for I had worked myself into a fever, trying to imagine what else we might do save await the preparations of our enemies.
"It is decided that we leave this place about midnight," he said in a cautious whisper; "that is, if you agree to the proposition."
"If I agree!" I repeated in nervous petulance. "What can I have to do with any plan which may be proposed?"
"If we set out it will be at risk of our lives, and the deputies have decided that no move shall be made unless all four of us are fully agreed that nothing different can be done."
"But how may we go or come at our pleasure if the house is surrounded?"