He, a college graduate, knew that he was in the presence of his equals.
"I am commissioned by my superior, Col. Arnold, to ask you to favor him with an audience."
"Might I ask who I am speaking with?"
"I have the honor to be lieutenant of the Connecticut Guards. I am Eli Forest."
"Tell Col. Arnold that I shall be pleased to see him, and, believe me, I am proud to have met Lieut. Forest."
When Forest returned to Arnold he found the New Haven colonel very anxious.
"Well, what says the farmer?"
"He may be a farmer, but he is a well-educated gentleman."
"You don't mean——"
"We have been deceived. You will find that he is our—my equal."