"'Tight work, I believe,' said Crosby, forcing his huge frame through the opening, followed by the captain, who, from the smallness of his size, slipped down with more ease.
"'Quite a comfortable apartment, captain,' observed Crosby, casting his eye round upon the interior, 'and not likely to starve very soon, one would judge, from the good things on your table.'
"'Help yourself to what you like,' said the captain, 'his majesty's friends provide well—good fare—no charges.'
"Crosby had but just supped—but tempted by the fare, somewhat superior to that which he had seen at the farmer's, he seated himself at the table, while the liberal hand of the captain was not backward in replenishing his plate, as often as it was emptied.
"'Do you leave here soon?' inquired Crosby.
"'To-morrow, I hope,' said the captain. 'I have burrowed here long enough. Much longer—and I shall have claws in good earnest.'
"'Your company is full, then?'
"'Room for one or two more. What say you, shall I enter your name?'
"'When and where does the company meet, before marching?' inquired Crosby.
"'On Tuesday evening, at the barn of Mr. S——; what say you, will you be present?'