"First, that you and your assistant put your hands upon the table, or else I shall have to bind you," replied Wildfoot.
Sir William frowned and choked again; but there was no recourse, and he and Vivian both laid their empty hands upon the table.
"That is better," said Wildfoot, in a pleased tone; "I know that it is undignified in you, but the good of our service demands it. And now for serious talk. I came to show you, Sir William, the insecurity of your position, and the great resources of the patriots."
"I must say," replied Sir William, "that I never before saw a man so anxious to give his side of the argument."
"Yes," replied Wildfoot, "I have been at some trouble and risk to do so."
I saw a faint gleam of humor appear in the eyes of Sir William, and I inferred that the quality of geniality or good fellowship in him, which perhaps made him such a poor soldier, was rising to the surface. He seemed to appreciate, to a slight degree at least, the humor of the situation. His eye suddenly sought mine, and then I distinctly saw a trace of amusement mingling with his perplexed and annoyed expression.
"You seem to have made sure of the attention of Lieutenant Melville and Lieutenant Graves," he said.
"I have no doubt that they can maintain their interest," replied Wildfoot, "and their present position is only temporary."
"You say that you came to show me the strength and resources of the colonists. Will you tell me how this is so?" asked Sir William.