"They are sent to take our liberties. My train-bands have their eyes on them."
"What do you intend doing, uncle? Will you fight them?"
"Not unless they force it. We have no wish to shed their blood. Listen; the charter is to be brought to the assembly in the same mahogany box in which Charles II. sent it to Governor Winthrop. When it is laid on the table, the lights are to be snuffed out. Do you understand?"
"Yes."
"Can you do it?"
"Nothing is easier."
"Remember, the work must be done right at the time, not too soon, nor too late."
"I will do it at the exact moment, uncle. Have no fear on that score."
The sun was setting, and the captain said:
"Come, Charles, let us hasten to the assembly. Look well at the setting sun, you may not live to see it rise."