"Station the guards first, and then call out the remainder of the force. It stands us in hand to hold all on this side the river, and also keep peace among them."
I was at some little trouble to find Sidney, he having gone to the further end of the line when the word was given to "fall in"; but I succeeded in withdrawing him from the ranks just as the men went forward into position at the river bank.
When we two lads stood before him, the general said in a low tone as if to prevent any other from hearing the discourse:
"It is in my mind that yonder riot has been begun by orders of Tryon or Fanning, that they may have some excuse for filling the jail before morning, as well as to cast discredit upon the Regulation. You lads have shown yourselves quick-witted, and I have no doubt that you will be able to hold your own in case Tryon and his crew are provoking a brawl. Cross the river at once; mingle with those who are taking part in the disturbance, and learn all you can regarding the beginning of the trouble."
"Our lines are in position!" Master Hunter cried, and the general replied:
"Very well. Hold the people here, and allow none to cross save the two who may speedily come with my permission to do as they please."
We lads waited twenty seconds or more to learn if Master Hamilton had any further commands for us, and since he did not speak, Sidney plucked me by the sleeve as a signal that we should set out.
The general was looking at us when we moved off, therefore did I know that we had received all the orders he had to give.
On coming to the water's edge we walked up the stream until finding Master Hunter, and then, in a low tone, explained what we had been ordered to do.
He immediately directed the men to give us passage, and hurriedly we forded the stream, bending our steps toward the court-house after having gained the opposite bank.