"'Your servant, sir.'
"'Going out, ladies?'
"'Only to take a little walk.'
"He immediately turned about and ran down stairs. I guessed for what.... He offered me his hand, or rather arm, to lean upon.
"'Excuse me, sir,' said I; 'I will support myself if you please.'
"'No, madam, the pavements are very uneven; you may get a fall; do accept my arm.'
"'Pardon me, I cannot.'
"'Come, you do not know what your condescension may do. I will turn rebel!'
"'Will you?' said I, laughingly—'Turn rebel first, and then offer your arm.'
"We stopped in another store, where were several British officers. After asking for the articles I wanted, I saw a broad roll of ribbon, which appeared to be of black and white stripes.