"Atherton Legh! ha!" cried the duke. Then fixing a stern look upon the young man, he said:
"You had better have remained faithful to the Government, sir. Now you will die as a traitor and a rebel."
"I am prepared to meet my fate, whatever it may be," replied Atherton, firmly.
"I might order you for instant execution," pursued the duke. "But you shall have a fair trial with the rest of the garrison. It must surrender to-morrow."
"Your royal highness is mistaken—the garrison can hold out for a week."
"'Tis you who are mistaken, Captain Legh," rejoined the duke, haughtily. "I have just received a letter from Colonel Hamilton, offering me terms of submission."
"I am indeed surprised to hear it," said Atherton. "Your royal highness may credit me when I affirm that the citadel is in a very good state of defence, has plenty of arms and ammunition, and ought to hold out for a month."
"That may be," rejoined the duke. "But I tell you I have received a letter from the governor, asking for terms. However, I will only accept an unconditional surrender."
"Colonel Townley, the commander of the city garrison, will hold out to the last," said Atherton.
"Colonel Townley is a brave man, and may die sword in hand; but hold the town he cannot. His regiment does not number a hundred men. You see I am well informed, Captain Legh. To-morrow you will see your colonel again."