IX—IN WHAT MANNER THE HOSTAGES WERE RECEIVED BY GENERAL WILLS.
General Carpenter was not present when the Earl of Derwentwater and Colonel Mackintosh were brought as hostages to Wills, but Brigadier Munden, Colonels Pitt, Wynn, and Stanhope were with him at the time.
The severe commander received the hostages very haughtily, and knitted his dark brows as he regarded them.
Lord Derwentwater comported himself with great dignity, but Colonel Mackintosh could scarcely restrain his anger, especially when Wills asked:
“Why have we not a Scotch nobleman? I required Lord Nithsdale or Lord Kenmure.”
“They declined to come, general,” replied Churchill.
“Methinks, the chief of the Clan Chattan might suffice,” said Mackintosh. “Had I refused to surrender, not a Highlander would have laid down his arms.”
“And not one would have escaped,” rejoined Wills. “If you think you can stand against the king's troops go back to the town, and I will immediately attack you.”
“If I take you at your word, I presume you will give General Forster a safe-conduct!” rejoined Mackintosh.