“Nothing whatever will be done, if Mackintosh is consulted,” said Lord Widdrington. “Our estates I fear will be confiscated, but we must make an effort to save our lives.”
“I fear the attempt will be useless,” said Lord Derwent-water. “And I would die rather than do aught dishonourable.”
“There is nothing dishonourble in what I propose,” said Forster; “but I feel certain the Scots will never consent to a surrender.”
“Yes, they would consider themselves degraded by such submission,” said Lord Denventwater.
“If they choose to throw away their lives they must do so,” said Lord Widdrington. “But do not let us act thus rashly.”
“I am acquainted with General Wills,” said Colonel Oxburgh, “and if you desire it, I will propose a treaty to him. Rest assured, I will assent to no disgraceful terms.”
Lord Derwentwater was still very unwilling that the step should be taken without consulting Brigadier Mackintosh, but he yielded at last to the representations of Lord Widdrington and Forster.