But he talked incessantly just the same; and Nat learned much of the condition of Boston, its conflict with king and parliament, of its patriotic population, and the vigorous, if secret, measures taken to oppose the army of Gage.
“And now,” said Revere, at last, pausing in his work, and surveying Nat with questioning eyes, “how would you like to stay on in a town in such a plight?”
Nat was rather puzzled as to just how to take this; but before he could speak, Revere went on:
“I had some talk about you with your cousin as we journeyed along, and he told me just how it is with you. As far as I can see, though of course my information is limited, there is no great call for you to go back to Philadelphia, just yet.”
“No,” Nat replied. “There is not.”
“Good!” exclaimed Revere. He leaned against his bench and scratched his chin. “There are many brawny, ready young men of excellent courage in the city, I have no doubt,” he continued; “but one must see them in action before making sure. Such a one is wanted. Dr. Warren has asked me to recommend him a youth of quality for work that will need to be done in Boston during the winter.”
“And you think I would answer?” inquired Nat.
“I am sure you would!” cried Revere, in high admiration. “Have I not seen you in stress of danger? You were like a rock for steadiness, and you planned like an old campaigner.”
“Just what is the work?” asked Nat.
“I’ll tell you another time,” said Mr. Revere, and Nat noticed him cast a look in the direction of the Porcupine, who sat in a high-backed chair drinking in the conversation.