Mrs. Juniper went herself to the door and opened it.
Captain Abner Tompkins stood there, sword in hand. Behind him were twenty or more of his men, all armed, while the others were scattered in different portions of the yard.
"What will you have, gentlemen?" asked the widow, holding the lamp above her head and looking fearlessly down into their faces.
"Pardon me, madam," said the young captain, bowing, "but we have been informed that some rebels are quartering here, and have come for them."
"Your informant was both meddlesome and ignorant. There are no rebel soldiers in the house," was the widow's reply.
"I beg your pardon, madam," said Abner, entering unbidden, and followed by several of his men. "I have no cause to doubt, yet my orders are imperative, and I must search your house."
The widow had the tact to yield without more argument, and the search commenced. From her bedroom to the kitchen, all the house was thoroughly searched. The Captain laid his hand on the cellar door.
"Hold!" said the widow, laying her hand on his arm. "I told you there were no rebel soldiers here, and I told you the truth. There is, however, one of them in the cellar, but for humanity's sake I warn you not to encounter him. He is a host in himself, a perfect tornado, when roused. You will be all killed if you venture, for he is well armed."
The young captain smiled.