About half an hour later, Colonel Oxburgh, preceded by a trumpeter on horseback, rode out of the Fishergate.
He was immediately stopped by the guard, but on explaining his errand, was conducted by a sergeant and two dragoons to Wills's tent, which was about a quarter of a mile off.
General Wills was seated at a small table in the centre of the tent, when Colonel Oxburgh was announced by a sentinel.
Wills raised his head, and looking at him very sternly, demanded his business.
“You will guess it without difficulty, I think, general,” replied Oxburgh. “I am come to propose that the insurgent force shall lay down their arms in the confident expectation that you will recommend them for pardon to the king.”
“Entertain no such expectation, sir,” rejoined Wills still more sternly. “I will not treat with rebels. Those for whom you plead have killed many of the king's subjects, and deserve death.”
“But since they are willing to submit, general, I hope that consideration may be shown them,” said Oxburgh.
“Expect none from me, sir,” rejoined Wills, harshly. “Clemency is thrown away on rebels. Go back to those who sent you. Tell them, if they lay down their arms, and submit themselves prisoners at discretion, I will prevent my soldiers from cutting them to pieces, and spare their lives till his majesty's pleasure is known. That is all I will promise.”
“Do you require an immediate decision, general?”
“I will give you an hour—no more,” replied Wills.