“Well,” said he, in amazement, “this is indeed a tale.”
“It is not done even yet,” said Ben.
“I can see that,” replied the other. “I can see that readily enough.”
“The story of Tobias Hawkins is not yet finished,” said Ben. “Nor will it ever be, to the satisfaction of true believers in liberty, at any rate—until several links are added to the chain by a hand other than his own.”
“You have some sort of a plan,” cried the other, sitting more upright upon his couch. “What is it?”
“Listen,” said Ben. And so, with their heads close together and their voices pitched low, they sat for the better part of another hour. And when they had finished, Lieutenant Claflin grasped Ben’s hand.
“I’ll do what I can,” declared he. “And my father and sister will do the same. If success to your plan can be won by effort upon our parts, depend upon it that we will do our best.”
“That is all I ask,” said Ben.
After a few moments more the latter arose.
“We must make haste,” said he. “Paddy and I are on our way to York now, and must lose no more time. However, I will see you before a great while.”