“Watching the battle. And oh, sir,” I cried, “can you tell me whether Mister Moultrie beat the British?”
“He did so,” cried Mr. Lowndes. “He did, and soundly.”
He stared at me. I must have looked my pleasure.
“Why, David,” says he, “you are a patriot, too.”
“I am a Rebel, sir,” I cried hotly.
Both gentlemen laughed again, and the men with them.
“The lad is a character,” said Mr. Lowndes.
We made our way down into the garden, which they searched last. At the creek's side the boat was gone, and there were footsteps in the mud.
“The bird has flown, Lowndes,” said Mr. Mathews.
“And good riddance for the Committee,” answered that gentleman, heartily. “He got to the fleet in fine season to get a round shot in the middle. David,” said he, solemnly, “remember it never pays to try to be two things at once.”