Call back Captain Falconer and him."
Puzzled and incredulous, but glad to test any assertion that might
clear his sister of the suspicion most odious, Tom hallooed for us.
When we re-entered the glade, Margaret spoke ere any one else had time
for a word:
"Captain Falconer, I think you'll allow me the right to admit these
gentlemen into the secret of our interviews. They are both loyal, both
so dear to me that I'd gladly have them take a part in the honour of
our project--of which, heaven knows, there'll be enough and to spare
if we succeed."
"Madam," said he, "its chance of success will be all the greater, for
the participation of these gentlemen."
"Well?" said Tom, looking inquiringly at his sister.
"You promise your aid, then, both?" she asked.
"Let us hear it first," he replied.
She obtained our assurances of secrecy in any event, and proceeded:
"Everybody knows what this rebellion costs England, in money, men, and
commerce; not to speak of the king's peace of mind, and the feelings
of the nation. Everybody sees it must last well-nigh for ever, if it
doesn't even win in the end! Well, then, think what it would mean for
England, for the king, for America, if the war could be cut short by a
single blow, with no cost; cut short by one night's courage, daring,
and skill, on the part of a handful of men!"
Tom and I smiled as at one who dreams golden impossibilities.
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