"So did I. I used to live in Concord. Ever in Concord?"
"Many times," answered Eben.
"Then we ought to be friends. Looking for work?"
"Partly. My folks want a good grant somewhere, and I'm looking about for one."
"There aren't many good places now; most have been taken. They do say that a man called Ethan Allen is round stirring up the people so that he may get them their lands free."
"So I have heard."
"But some say that he wants the lands for himself."
"How is that?" asked Eben, innocently.
"Why, I have heard a man say—he came from Fort Ticonderoga—that if Allen can get his way there will be a fight. Then he will surrender and will recognize York, and as a reward will get the best farms."
"It's a——"