“And we asked Mrs. Parslow, as a special favor, to delay supper,” spoke Nat Brewster.
“That was thoughtful enough, eh, Ben?” laughed Ezra. “And to show how we appreciate it,” to Nat, “we’ll try to do it full justice.”
While Mrs. Parslow, a good-humored, elderly woman, was bringing in the smoking dishes, the four lads related their experiences. George and Nat had ridden together upon the same mission as the other two, but had gone in the direction of Milton and Braintree.
“And the people listened to the Committee’s warnings with their hearts in their eyes,” said Nat Brewster. “Let there be only action, and General Ward will not want for men.”
“But Massachusetts cannot be expected to do it all,” said Ben. “The other colonies must bear their share of the burden.”
“They will, never fear,” said Ezra. “Only this afternoon I heard of a company of riflemen being recruited as far south as Virginia. Then there are the Connecticut men and those from New Hampshire. And don’t forget that these last bring leaders with them. The British themselves acknowledge the ability of Putnam, Stark and Greene.”
Ezra and George sat side by side and Mrs. Parslow looked bewilderedly at them.
“One of you likes griddle-cakes with honey,” she said, “but for the life of me I can’t tell which of you it is.”
“It’s George,” spoke Ben Cooper, with a grin.
“And which is George?” asked the good woman, looking from one to the other.