"Did not Kent belong to Virginia by right of a charter antedating the patent of that upstart, Calvert?"
"The Commissioners in England decided differently."
"Ay, of course wire-pulling will always move the wires."
Huntoon's only response was a non-committal smile.
"You may remember, Councillor Huntoon, that this same question came before the Virginia Council ten years ago, that I did ask the opinion of that honorable body as to whether I should yield to Baltimore's claims. The board answered that they wondered how any such question could be asked, that they knew no reason why they should give up their rights in the Isle of Kent more than any other formerly granted to Virginia by His Majesty's patent, and that I was in duty bound to maintain the rights and privileges of our colony."
"But that was before the decision of the Commission."
"Ay, but that goes for nothing. 'Twas unjust, unfair, and should be unrecognized."
"Who are concerned in your present plan?" asked Huntoon.
"Half the planters along the river."
"And who is to be the leader?"