"Ladies," he
began, "since it is the fortune of war that I must have command here
for a brief time, I hasten to assure you that we shall give as
little annoyance as possible. A few men on both sides were wounded,
and I fear that the officer commanding your men was killed. At least
I saw him fall. The night is warm and still and I can make a
hospital here on the piazza with a little aid from you. Please
dismiss all further fears. Unless we are attacked, the night shall
pass quietly. Each and every one will be treated with respect and
courtesy. I must request of you, however, sir," addressing Mr.
Baron, "food for myself and men and forage for our horses."
"I suppose you will take them anyway," growled the unwilling host.
"Certainly," replied Scoville, giving him a steady look. "Do you
expect us to go hungry? I shall do my duty as a soldier and an
officer, as well as deport myself as a gentleman."
There was nothing left but for Mr. Baron to give his directions to
Perkins, or for the ladies to make preparations for the improvised
hospital.
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