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diff --git a/8880-h/8880-h.htm b/8880-h/8880-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..412da8a --- /dev/null +++ b/8880-h/8880-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,20537 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + Satanstoe, by J. Fenimore Cooper. + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Satanstoe, by James Fenimore Cooper + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Satanstoe + +Author: James Fenimore Cooper + + +Release Date: September, 2005 [EBook #8880] +This file was first posted on August 20, 2003 +Last Updated: March 11, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SATANSTOE *** + + + + +Text file produced by Distributed Proofreaders + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + SATANSTOE + </h1> + <h4> + or, + </h4> + <h3> + THE LITTLEPAGE MANUSCRIPTS + </h3> + <h3> + A TALE OF THE COLONY. + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By J. Fenimore Cooper. + </h2> + <h4> + “The only amaranthine flower on earth is virtue: the only treasure, + truth.”—SPENSER + </h4> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + Every chronicle of manners has a certain value. When customs are connected + with principles, in their origin, development, or end, such records have a + double importance; and it is because we think we see such a connection + between the facts and incidents of the Littlepage Manuscripts, and certain + important theories of our own time, that we give the former to the world. + </p> + <p> + It is perhaps a fault of your professed historian, to refer too much to + philosophical agencies, and too little to those that are humbler. The + foundations of great events, are often remotely laid in very capricious + and uncalculated passions, motives, or impulses. Chance has usually as + much to do with the fortunes of states, as with those of individuals; or, + if there be calculations connected with them at all, they are the + calculations of a power superior to any that exists in man. + </p> + <p> + We had been led to lay these Manuscripts before the world, partly by + considerations of the above nature, and partly on account of the manner in + which the two works we have named, “Satanstoe” and the “Chainbearer,” + relate directly to the great New York question of the day, ANTI-RENTISM; + which question will be found to be pretty fully laid bare, in the third + and last book of the series. These three works, which contain all the + Littlepage Manuscripts, do not form sequels to each other, in the sense of + personal histories, or as narratives; while they do in that of principles. + The reader will see that the early career, the attachment, the marriage, + &c. of Mr. Cornelius Littlepage are completely related in the present + book, for instance; while those of his son, Mr. Mordaunt Littlepage, will + be just as fully given in the “Chainbearer,” its successor. It is hoped + that the connection, which certainly does exist between these three works, + will have more tendency to increase the value of each, than to produce the + ordinary effect of what are properly called sequels, which are known to + lessen the interest a narrative might otherwise have with the reader. Each + of these three books has its own hero, its own heroine, and its own—-picture—of + manners, complete; though the latter may be, and is, more or less thrown + into relief by its <i>pendants</i>. + </p> + <p> + We conceive no apology is necessary for treating the subject of + anti-rentism with the utmost frankness. Agreeably to our views of the + matter, the existence of true liberty among us, the perpetuity of the + institutions, and the safety of public morals, are all dependent on + putting down, wholly, absolutely, and unqualifiedly, the false and + dishonest theories and statements that have been boldly advanced in + connection with this subject. In our view, New York is at this moment, + much the most disgraced state in the Union, notwithstanding she has never + failed to pay the interest on her public debt; and her disgrace arises + from the fact that her laws are trampled underfoot, without any efforts, + at all commensurate with the object, being made to enforce them. If <i>words</i> + and <i>professions</i> can save the character of a community, all may yet + be well; but if states, like individuals, are to be judged by their + actions, and the “tree is to be known by its fruit,” God help us! + </p> + <p> + For ourselves, we conceive that true patriotism consists in laying bare + everything like public vice, and in calling such things by their right + names. The great enemy of the race has made a deep inroad upon us, within + the last ten or a dozen years, under cover of a spurious delicacy on the + subject of exposing national ills; and it is time that they who have not + been afraid to praise, when praise was merited, should not shrink from the + office of censuring, when the want of timely warnings may be one cause of + the most fatal evils. The great practical defect of institutions like + ours, is the circumstance that “what is everybody's business, is nobody's + business;” a neglect that gives to the activity of the rogue a very + dangerous ascendency over the more dilatory correctives of the honest man. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Look you, + Who comes here: a young man, and an old, in solemn talk.” + + <i>As You Like it</i>. +</pre> + <p> + It is easy to foresee that this country is destined to undergo great and + rapid changes. Those that more properly belong to history, history will + doubtless attempt to record, and probably with the questionable veracity + and prejudice that are apt to influence the labours of that particular + muse; but there is little hope that any traces of American society, in its + more familiar aspects, will be preserved among us, through any of the + agencies usually employed for such purposes. Without a stage, in a + national point of view at least, with scarcely such a thing as a book of + memoirs that relates to a life passed within our own limits, and totally + without light literature, to give us simulated pictures of our manners, + and the opinions of the day, I see scarcely a mode by which the next + generation can preserve any memorials of the distinctive usages and + thoughts of this. It is true, they will have traditions of certain leading + features of the colonial society, but scarcely any records; and, should + the next twenty years do as much as the last, towards substituting an + entirely new race for the descendants of our own immediate fathers, it is + scarcely too much to predict that even these traditions will be lost in + the whirl and excitement of a throng of strangers. Under all the + circumstances, therefore, I have come to a determination to make an + effort, however feeble it may prove, to preserve some vestiges of + household life in New York, at least; while I have endeavoured to + stimulate certain friends in New Jersey, and farther south, to undertake + similar tasks in those sections of the country. What success will attend + these last applications, is more than I can say, but, in order that the + little I may do myself shall not be lost for want of support, I have made + a solemn request in my will, that those who come after me will consent to + continue this narrative, committing to paper their own experience, as I + have here committed mine, down as low at least as my grandson, if I ever + have one. Perhaps, by the end of the latter's career, they will begin to + publish books in America, and the fruits of our joint family labours may + be thought sufficiently matured to be laid before the world. + </p> + <p> + It is possible that which I am now about to write will be thought too + homely, to relate to matters much too personal and private, to have + sufficient interest for the public eye; but it must be remembered that the + loftiest interests of man are made up of a collection of those that are + lowly; and, that he who makes a faithful picture of only a single + important scene in the events of single life, is doing something towards + painting the greatest historical piece of his day. As I have said before, + the leading events of my time will find their way into the pages of far + more pretending works than this of mine, in some form or other, with more + or less of fidelity to the truth, and real events, and real motives; while + the humbler matters it will be my office to record, will be entirely + overlooked by writers who aspire to enrol their names among the Tacituses + of former ages. It may be well to say here, however, I shall not attempt + the historical mood at all, but content myself with giving the feelings, + incidents, and interests of what is purely private life, connecting them + no farther with things that are of a more general nature, than is + indispensable to render the narrative intelligible and accurate. With + these explanations, which are made in order to prevent the person who may + happen first to commence the perusal of this manuscript from throwing it + into the fire, as a silly attempt to write a more silly fiction, I shall + proceed at once to the commencement of my proper task. + </p> + <p> + I was born on the 3d May, 1737, on a neck of land, called Satanstoe, in + the county of West Chester, and in the colony of New York; a part of the + widely extended empire that then owned the sway of His Sacred Majesty, + George II., King of Great Britain, Ireland, and France; Defender of the + Faith; and, I may add, the shield and panoply of the Protestant + Succession; God bless him! Before I say anything of my parentage, I will + first give the reader some idea of the <i>locus in quo</i>, and a more + precise notion of the spot on which I happened first to see the light. + </p> + <p> + A “neck,” in West Chester and Long Island parlance, means something that + might be better termed a “head and shoulders,” if mere shape and + dimensions are kept in view. Peninsula would be the true word, were we + describing things on a geographical scale; but, as they are, I find it + necessary to adhere to the local term, which is not altogether peculiar to + our county, by the way. The “neck” or peninsula of Satanstoe, contains + just four hundred and sixty-three acres and a half of excellent West + Chester land; and that, when the stone is hauled and laid into wall, is + saying as much in its favour as need be said of any soil on earth. It has + two miles of beach, and collects a proportionate quantity of sea-weed for + manure, besides enjoying near a hundred acres of salt-meadow and sedges, + that are not included in the solid ground of the neck proper. As my + father, Major Evans Littlepage, was to inherit this estate from his + father, Capt. Hugh Littlepage, it might, even at the time of my birth, be + considered old family property, it having indeed, been acquired by my + grandfather, through his wife, about thirty years after the final cession + of the colony to the English by its original Dutch owners. Here we had + lived, then, near half a century, when I was born, in the direct line, and + considerably longer if we included maternal ancestors; here I now live, at + the moment of writing these lines, and here I trust my only son is to live + after me. + </p> + <p> + Before I enter into a more minute description of Satanstoe, it may be + well, perhaps, to say a word concerning its somewhat peculiar name. The + neck lies in the vicinity of a well-known pass that is to be found in the + narrow arm of the sea that separates the island of Manhattan from its + neighbour, Long Island, and which is called Hell Gate. Now, there is a + tradition, that I confess is somewhat confined to the blacks of the + neighbourhood, but which says that the Father of Lies, on a particular + occasion, when he was violently expelled from certain roystering taverns + in the New Netherlands, made his exit by this well-known dangerous pass, + and drawing his foot somewhat hastily from among the lobster-pots that + abound in those waters, leaving behind him as a print of his passage by + that route, the Hog's Back, the Pot, and all the whirlpools and rocks that + render navigation so difficult in that celebrated strait, he placed it + hurriedly upon the spot where there now spreads a large bay to the + southward and eastward of the neck, just touching the latter with the ball + of his great toe, as he passed Down-East; from which part of the country + some of our people used to maintain he originally came. Some fancied + resemblance to an inverted toe (the devil being supposed to turn + everything with which he meddles, upside-down,) has been imagined to exist + in the shape and swells of our paternal acres; a fact that has probably + had its influence in perpetuating the name. + </p> + <p> + Satanstoe has the place been called, therefore, from time immemorial; as + time is immemorial in a country in which civilized time commenced not a + century and a half ago: and Satanstoe it is called to-day. I confess I am + not fond of unnecessary changes, and I sincerely hope this neck of land + will continue to go by its old appellation, as long as the House of + Hanover shall sit on the throne of these realms; or as long as water shall + run and grass shall grow. There has been an attempt made to persuade the + neighbourhood, quite lately, that the name is irreligious and unworthy of + an enlightened people, like this of West Chester; but it has met with no + great success. It has come from a Connecticut man, whose father they say + is a clergyman of the “<i>standing</i> order;” so called, I believe, + because they stand up at prayers; and who came among us himself in the + character of a schoolmaster. This young man, I understand, has endeavoured + to persuade the neighbourhood that Satanstoe is a corruption introduced by + the Dutch, from Devil's Town; which, in its turn, was a corruption from + Dibbleston; the family from which my grandfather's father-in-law purchased + having been, as he says, of the name of Dibblee. He has got half-a-dozen + of the more sentimental part of our society to call the neck Dibbleton; + but the attempt is not likely to succeed in the long run, as we are not a + people much given to altering the language, any more than the customs of + our ancestors. Besides, my Dutch ancestors did not purchase from any + Dibblee, no such family ever owning the place, that being a bold + assumption of the Yankee to make out his case the more readily. + </p> + <p> + Satanstoe, as it is little more than a good farm in extent, so it is + little more than a particularly good farm in cultivation and + embellishment. All the buildings are of stone, even to the hog-sties and + sheds, with well-pointed joints, and field walls that would do credit to a + fortified place. The house is generally esteemed one of the best in the + Colony, with the exception of a few of the new school. It is of only a + story and a half in elevation, I admit; but the rooms under the roof are + as good as any of that description with which I am acquainted, and their + finish is such as would do no discredit to the upper rooms of even a York + dwelling. The building is in the shape of an L, or two sides of a + parallelogram, one of which shows a front of seventy-five, and the other + of fifty feet. Twenty-six feet make the depth, from outside to outside of + the walls. The best room had a carpet, that covered two-thirds of the + entire dimensions of the floor, even in my boyhood, and there were + oil-cloths in most of the better passages. The buffet in the dining-room, + or smallest parlour, was particularly admired; and I question if there be, + at this hour, a handsomer in the county. The rooms were well-sized, and of + fair dimensions, the larger parlours embracing the whole depth of the + house, with proportionate widths, while the ceilings were higher than + common, being eleven feet, if we except the places occupied by the larger + beams of the chamber floors. + </p> + <p> + As there was money in the family, besides the Neck, and the Littlepages + had held the king's commissions, my father having once been an ensign, and + my grandfather a captain, in the regular army, each in the earlier portion + of his life, we always ranked among the gentry of the county. We happened + to be in a part of Westchester in which were none of the very large + estates, and Satanstoe passed for property of a certain degree of + importance. It is true, the Morrises were at Morrisania, and the Felipses, + or Philipses, as these Bohemian counts were then called, had a manor on + the Hudson, that extended within a dozen miles of us, and a younger branch + of the de Lanceys had established itself even much nearer, while the Van + Cortlandts, or a branch of them, too, dwelt near Kingsbridge; but these + were all people who were at the head of the Colony, and with whom none of + the minor gentry attempted to vie. As it was, therefore, the Littlepages + held a very respectable position between the higher class of the yeomanry + and those who, by their estates, education, connections, official rank, + and hereditary consideration, formed what might be justly called the + aristocracy of the Colony. Both my father and grandfather had sat in the + Assembly, in their time, and, as I have heard elderly people say, with + credit, too. As for my father, on one occasion, he made a speech that + occupied eleven minutes in the delivery,—a proof that he had + something to say, and which was a source of great, but, I trust, humble + felicitation in the family, down to the day of his death, and even + afterwards. + </p> + <p> + Then the military services of the family stood us in for a great deal, in + that day it was something to be an ensign even in the militia, and a far + greater thing to have the same rank in a regular regiment. It is true, + neither of my predecessors served very long with the King's troops, my + father in particular selling out at the end of his second campaign; but + the military experience, and I may add the military glory each acquired in + youth, did them good service for all the rest of their days. Both were + commissioned in the militia, and my father actually rose as high as major + in that branch of the service, that being the rank he held, and the title + he bore, for the last fifteen years of his life. + </p> + <p> + My mother was of Dutch extraction on both sides, her father having been a + Blauvelt, and her mother a Van Busser. I have heard it said that there was + even a relationship between the Stuyvesants and the Van Cortlandts, and + the Van Bussers; but I am not able to point out the actual degree and + precise nature of the affinity. I presume it was not very near, or my + information would have been more minute. I have always understood that my + mother brought my father thirteen hundred pounds for dowry (currency, not + sterling), which, it must be confessed, was a very genteel fortune for a + young woman in 1733. Now, I very well know that six, eight, and ten + thousand pounds sometimes fall in, in this manner, and even much more in + the high families; but no one need be ashamed, who looks back fifty years, + and finds that his mother brought a thousand pounds to her husband. + </p> + <p> + I was neither an only child, nor the eldest-born. There was a son who + preceded me, and two daughters succeeded, but they all died in infancy, + leaving me in effect the only offspring for my parents to cherish and + educate. My little brother monopolised the name of Evans, and living for + some time after I was christened, I got the Dutch appellation of my + maternal grandfather, for my share of the family nomenclature, which + happened to be Cornelius—Corny was consequently the diminutive by + which I was known to all the whites of my acquaintance, for the first + sixteen or eighteen years of my life, and to my parents as long as they + lived. Corny Littlepage is not a bad name, in itself, and I trust they who + do me the favour to read this manuscript, will lay it down with the + feeling that the name is none the worse for the use I have made of it. + </p> + <p> + I have said that both my father and grandfather, each in his day, sat in + the assembly; my father twice, and my grandfather only once. Although we + lived so near the borough of West Chester, it was not for that place they + sat, but for the county, the de Lanceys and the Morrises contending for + the control of the borough, in a way that left little chance for the + smaller fishes to swim in the troubled water they were so certain to + create. Nevertheless, this political elevation brought my father out, as + it might be, before the world, and was the means of giving him a personal + consideration he might not have otherwise enjoyed. The benefits, and + possibly some of the evils of thus being drawn out from the more regular + routine of our usually peaceable lives, may be made to appear in the + course of this narrative. + </p> + <p> + I have ever considered myself fortunate in not having been born in the + earlier and infant days of the colony, when the interests at stake, and + the events by which they were influenced, were not of a magnitude to give + the mind and the hopes the excitement and enlargement that attend the + periods of a more advanced civilization, and of more important incidents. + In this respect, my own appearance in this world was most happily timed, + as any one will see who will consider the state and importance of the + colony in the middle of the present century. New York could not have + contained many less than seventy thousand souls, including both colours, + at the time of my birth, for it is supposed to contain quite a hundred + thousand this day on which I am now writing. In such a community, a man + has not only the room, but the materials on which to figure; whereas, as I + have often heard him say, my father, when he was born, was one of less + than half of the smallest number I have just named. I have been grateful + for this advantage, and I trust it will appear, by evidence that will be + here afforded, that I have not lived in a quarter of the world, or in an + age, when and where, and to which great events have been altogether + strangers. + </p> + <p> + My earliest recollections, as a matter of course, are of Satanstoe and the + domestic fireside. In my childhood and youth, I heard a great deal said of + the Protestant Succession, the House of Hanover, and King George II.; all + mixed up with such names as those of George Clinton, Gen. Monckton, Sir + Charles Hardy, James de Lancey, and Sir Danvers Osborne, his official + representatives in the colony. Every age has its <i>old</i> and its <i>last</i> + wars, and I can well remember that which occurred between the French in + the Canadas and ourselves, in 1744. I was then seven years old, and it was + an event to make an impression on a child of that tender age. My honoured + grandfather was then living, as he was long afterwards, and he took a + strong interest in the military movements of the period, as was natural + for an old soldier. New York had no connection with the celebrated + expedition that captured Louisbourg, then the Gibraltar of America, in + 1745; but this could not prevent an old soldier like Capt. Littlepage from + entering into the affair with all his heart, though forbidden to use his + hand. As the reader may not be aware of all the secret springs that set + public events in motion, it may be well here to throw in a few words in + the way of explanation. + </p> + <p> + There was and is little sympathy, in the way of national feeling, between + the colonies of New England and those which lie farther south. We are all + loyal, those of the east as well as those of the south-west and south; but + there is, and ever has been, so wide a difference in our customs, origins, + religious opinions, and histories, as to cause a broad moral line, in the + way of feeling, to be drawn between the colony of New York and those that + lie east of the Byram river. I have heard it said that most of the + emigrants to the New England states came from the west of England where + many of their social peculiarities and much of their language are still to + be traced, while the colonies farther south have received their population + from the more central counties, and those sections of the island that are + supposed to be less provincial and peculiar. I do not affirm that such is + literally the fact, though it is well known that we of New York have long + been accustomed to regard our neighbours of New England as very different + from ourselves, whilst, I dare say, our neighbours of New England have + regarded us as different from themselves, and insomuch removed from + perfection. + </p> + <p> + Let all this be as it may, it is certain New England is a portion of the + empire that is set apart from the rest, for good or for evil. It got its + name from the circumstance that the English possessions were met, on its + western boundary by those of the Dutch, who were thus separated from the + other colonies of purely Anglo-Saxon origin, by a wide district that was + much larger in surface than the mother country itself. I am afraid there + is something in the character of these Anglo-Saxons that predisposes them + to laugh and turn up their noses at other races; for I have remarked that + their natives of the parent land itself, who come among us, show this + disposition even as it respects us of New York and those of New England, + while the people of the latter region manifest a feeling towards us, their + neighbours, that partakes of anything but the humility that is thought to + grace that Christian character to which they are particularly fond of + laying claim. + </p> + <p> + My grandfather was a native of the old country, however, and he entered + but little into the colonial jealousies. He had lived from boyhood, and + had married in New York, and was not apt to betray any of the overweening + notions of superiority that we sometimes encountered in native-born + Englishmen, though I can remember instances in which he would point out + the defects in our civilization, and others in which he dwelt with + pleasure on the grandeur and power his own island. I dare say this was all + right, for few among us have ever been disposed to dispute the just + supremacy of England in all things that are desirable, and which form the + basis of human excellence. + </p> + <p> + I well remember a journey Capt. Hugh Littlepage made to Boston, in 1745, + in order to look at the preparations that were making for the great + expedition. Although his own colony had no connection with this + enterprise, in a military point of view, his previous service rendered him + an object of interest to the military men then assembled along the coast + of New England. It has been said the expedition against Louisbourg, then + the strongest place in America, was planned by a lawyer, led by a + merchant, and executed by husbandmen and mechanics; but this, though true + as a whole, was a rule that had its exceptions. There were many old + soldiers who had seen the service of this continent in the previous wars, + and among them were several of my grandfather's former acquaintances. With + these he passed many a cheerful hour, previously to the day of sailing, + and I have often thought since, that my presence alone prevented him from + making one in the fleet. The reader will think, I was young, perhaps, to + be so far from home on such an occasion, but it happened in this wise: My + excellent mother thought I had come out of the small-pox with some + symptoms that might be benefited by a journey, and she prevailed on her + father-in-law to let me be of the party when he left home to visit Boston + in the winter of 1744-5. At that early day moving about was not always + convenient in these colonies, and my grandfather travelling in a sleigh + that was proceeding east with some private stores that had been collected + for the expedition, it presented a favourable opportunity to send me along + with my venerable progenitor, who very good-naturedly consented to let me + commence my travels under his own immediate auspices. + </p> + <p> + The things I saw on this occasion have had a material influence on my + future life. I got a love of adventure, and particularly of military + parade and grandeur, that has since led me into more than one difficulty. + Capt. Hugh Littlepage, my grandfather, was delighted with all he saw until + after the expedition had sailed, when he began to grumble on the subject + of the religious observances that the piety of the Puritans blended with + most of their other movements. On the score of religion there was a marked + difference; I may say there <i>is</i> still a marked difference between + New England and New York. The people of New England certainly did, and + possibly may still, look upon us of New York as little better than + heathens; while we of New York assuredly did, and for anything I know to + the contrary may yet, regard them as canters, and by necessary connection, + hypocrites. I shall not take it on myself to say which party is right; + though it has often occurred to my mind that it would be better had New + England a little less self-righteousness, and New York a little more + righteousness, without the self. Still, in the way of pounds, shillings + and pence, we will not turn our backs upon them any day, being on the + whole rather the most trustworthy of the two as respects money; more + especially in all such cases in which our neighbour's goods can be + appropriated without having recourse to absolutely direct means. Such, at + any rate, is the New York opinion, let them think as they please about it + on the other side of Byram. + </p> + <p> + My grandfather met an old fellow-campaigner, at Boston, of the name of + Hight, Major Hight, as he was called, who had come to see the + preparations, too; and the old soldiers passed most of the time together. + The Major was a Jerseyman, and had been somewhat of a free-liver in his + time, retaining some of the propensities of his youth in old age, as is + apt to be the case with those who cultivate a vice as if it were a + hot-house plant. The Major was fond of his bottle, drinking heavily of + Madeira, of which there was then a good stock in Boston, for he brought + some on himself; and I can remember various scenes that occurred between + him and my grandfather, after dinner, as they sat discoursing in the + tavern on the progress of things, and the prospects for the future. Had + these two old soldiers been of the troops of the province in which they + were, it would have been “Major” and “Captain” at every breath; for no + part of the earth is fonder of titles than our eastern brethren; <a + href="#linknote-1" name="linknoteref-1" id="linknoteref-1"><small>1</small></a> + whereas, I must think we had some claims to more true simplicity of + character and habits, notwithstanding New York has ever been thought the + most aristocratical of all the northern colonies. Having been intimate + from early youth, my two old soldiers familiarly called each other Joey + and Hodge, the latter being the abbreviation of one of my grandfather's + names, Roger, when plain Hugh was not used, as sometimes happened between + them. Hugh Roger Littlepage, I ought to have said, was my grandfather's + name. + </p> + <p> + “I should like these Yankees better, if they prayed less, my old friend,” + said the Major, one day, after they had been discussing the appearances of + things, and speaking between the puffs of his pipe. “I can see no great + use in losing so much time, by making these halts to pray, when the + campaign is fairly opened.” + </p> + <p> + “It was always their way, Joey,” my grandfather answered, taking his time, + as is customary with smokers. “I remember when we were out together, in + the year '17, that the New England troops always had their parsons, who + acted as a sort of second colonels. They tell me His Excellency has + ordered a weekly fast, for public prayers, during the whole of this + campaign.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Master Hodge, praying and plundering; so they go on,” returned the + Major, knocking the ashes out of his pipe, preparatory to filling it anew; + an employment that gave him an opportunity to give vent to his feelings, + without pausing to puff.—“Ay, Master Hodge, praying and plundering; + so they go on. Now, do you remember old Watson, who was in the + Massachusetts Levies, in the year '12?—old Tom Watson; he that was a + sub under Barnwell, in our Tuscarora expedition?” + </p> + <p> + My grandfather nodded his head in assent, that being the only reply the + avocation of smoking rendered convenient, just at that moment, unless a + sort of affirmatory grunt could be construed into an auxiliary. + </p> + <p> + “Well, he has a son going in this affair; and old Tom, or Colonel Watson, + as he is now very particular to be called, is down here with his wife and + two daughters, to see the ensign off. I went to pay the old fellow a + visit, Hodge; and found him, and the mother and sisters, all as busy as + bees in getting young Tom's baggage ready for a march. There lay his whole + equipment before my eyes, and I had a favourable occasion to examine it at + my leisure.” + </p> + <p> + “Which you did with all your might, or you're not the Joe Hight of the + year '10,” said my grandfather, taking his turn with the ashes and the + tobacco-box. + </p> + <p> + Old Hight was now puffing away like a blacksmith who is striving to obtain + a white heat, and it was some time before he could get out the proper + reply to this half-assertion, half-interrogatory sort of remark. + </p> + <p> + “You may be sure of that,” he at length ejaculated; when, certain of his + light, he proceeded to tell the whole story, stopping occasionally to + puff, lest he should lose the “vantage ground” he had just obtained. “What + d'ye think of half-a-dozen strings of red onions, for one item in a + subaltern's stores!” + </p> + <p> + My grandfather grunted again, in a way that might very well pass for a + laugh. + </p> + <p> + “You're certain they were red, Joey?” he finally asked. + </p> + <p> + “As red as his regimentals. Then there was a jug, filled with molasses, + that is as big as yonder demijohn;” glancing at the vessel which contained + his own private stores. “But I should have thought nothing of these, a + large empty sack attracting much of my attention. I could not imagine what + young Tom could want of such a sack; but, on broaching the subject to the + Major, he very frankly gave me to understand that Louisbourg was thought + to be a rich town, and there was no telling what luck, or Providence—yes, + by George!—he called it <i>Providence!</i>—might throw in his + son Tommy's way. Now that the sack was empty, and had an easy time of it, + the girls would put his bible and hymn-book in it, as a place where the + young man would be likely to look for them. I dare say, Hodge, you never + had either bible or hymn-book, in any of your numerous campaigns?” + </p> + <p> + “No, nor a plunder-sack, nor a molasses-jug, nor strings of red onions,” + growled my grandfather in reply. + </p> + <p> + How well I remember that evening! A vast deal of colonial prejudice and + neighbourly antipathy made themselves apparent in the conversation of the + two veterans; who seemed to entertain a strange sort of contemptuous + respect for their fellow-subjects of New England; who, in their turn, I + make not the smallest doubt, paid them off in kind—with all the + superciliousness and reproach, and with many grains less of the respect. + </p> + <p> + That night, Major Hight and Capt. Hugh Roger Littlepage, both got a little + how-come-you-so, drinking bumpers to the success of what they called “the + Yankee expedition,” even at the moment they were indulging in constant + side hits at the failings and habits of the people. These marks of + neighbourly infirmity are not peculiar to the people of the adjacent + provinces of New York and of New England. I have often remarked that the + English think and talk very much of the French, as the Yankees speak of + us; while the French, so far as I have been able to understand their + somewhat unintelligible language—which seems never to have a + beginning nor an end—treat the English as the Puritans of the Old + World. As I have already intimated, we were not very remarkable for + religion in New York, in my younger days; while it would be just the word, + were I to say that religion was <i>conspicuous</i> among our eastern + neighbours. I remember to have heard my grandfather say, he was once + acquainted with a Col. Heathcote, an Englishman, like himself, by birth, + and a brother of a certain Sir Gilbert Heathcote, who was formerly a + leading man in the Bank of England. This Col. Heathcote came among us + young, and married here, leaving his posterity behind him, and was lord of + the manor of Scarsdale and Mamaroneck, in our county of West Chester. + Well, this Col. Heathcote told my grandfather, speaking on the subject of + religion, that he had been much shocked, on arriving in this country, at + discovering the neglected condition of religion in the colony; more + especially on Long Island, where the people lived in a sort of heathenish + condition. Being a man of mark, and connected with the government, The + Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, applied to him + to aid it in spreading the truths of the bible in the colony. The Colonel + was glad enough to comply; and I remember my grandfather said, his friend + told him of the answer he returned to these good persons in England. “I + was so struck with the heathenish condition of the people, on my arriving + here,” he wrote to them, “that, commanding the militia of the colony, I + ordered the captains of the different companies to call their men + together, each Sunday at sunrise, and to drill them until sunset; unless + they would consent to repair to some convenient place, and listen to + morning and evening prayer, and to two wholesome sermons read by some + suitable person, in which case the men were to be excused from drill.” <a + href="#linknote-2" name="linknoteref-2" id="linknoteref-2"><small>2</small></a> + I do not think this would be found necessary in New England at least, + where many of the people would be likely to prefer drilling to preaching. + </p> + <p> + But all this gossip about the moral condition of the adjacent colonies of + New York and New England is leading me from the narrative, and does not + promise much for the connection and interest of the remainder of the + manuscript. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-1" id="linknote-1"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 1 (<a href="#linknoteref-1">return</a>)<br /> [ It will be remembered Mr. + Littlepage wrote more than seventy years ago, when this distinction might + exclusively belong to the <i>East</i>; but the <i>West</i> has now some + claim to it, also.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-2" id="linknote-2"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 2 (<a href="#linknoteref-2">return</a>)<br /> [ On the subject of this + story, the editor can say he has seen a published letter from Col. + Heathcote, who died more than a century since, at Mamaroneck, West Chester + Co., in which that gentleman gives the Society for the propagation of the + gospel an account of his proceedings, that agrees almost <i>verbatim</i> + with the account of the matter that is here given by Mr. Cornelius + Littlepage. The house in which Col. Heathcote dwelt was destroyed by fire, + a short time before the revolution; but the property on which it stood, + and the present building, belong at this moment to his great-grandson, the + Rt. Rev. Wm. <i>Heathcote</i> de Lancey, the Bishop of Western New York. + On the subject of the <i>plunder</i>, the editor will remark, that a near + connection, whose grandfather was a Major at the taking of Louisbourg, and + who was subsequently one of the first Brigadiers appointed in 1775, has + lately shown him a letter written to that officer, during the expedition, + by <i>his</i> father; in which, blended with a great deal of pious + counsel, and some really excellent religious exhortation, is an earnest + inquiry after the <i>plunder</i>.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I would there were no age between ten and three-and-twenty; + or that youth would sleep out the rest.” + + <i>Winter's Tale</i>. +</pre> + <p> + It is not necessary for me to say much of the first fourteen years of my + life. They passed like the childhood and youth of the sons of most + gentlemen in our colony, at that day, with this distinction, however. + There was a class among us which educated its boys at home. This was not a + very numerous class, certainly, nor was it always the highest in point of + fortune and rank. Many of the large proprietors were of Dutch origin, as a + matter of course; and these seldom, if ever, sent their children to + England to be taught anything, in my boyhood. I understand that a few are + getting over their ancient prejudices, in this particular, and begin to + fancy Oxford or Cambridge may be quite as learned schools as that of + Leyden; but, no Van, in my boyhood, could have been made to believe this. + Many of the Dutch proprietors gave their children very little education, + in any way or form, though most of them imparted lessons of probity that + were quite as useful as learning, had the two things been really + inseparable. For my part, while I admit there is a great deal of knowledge + going up and down the land, that is just of the degree to trick a + fellow-creature out of his rights, I shall never subscribe to the opinion, + which is so prevalent among the Dutch portion of our population, and which + holds the doctrine that the schools of the New England provinces are the + reason the descendants of the Puritans do not enjoy the best of + reputations, in this respect. I believe a boy may be well taught, and made + all the honester for it; though, I admit, there may be, and is, such a + thing as training a lad in false notions, as well as training him in those + that are true. But, we had a class, principally of English extraction, + that educated its sons well; usually sending them home, to the great + English schools, and finishing at the universities. These persons, + however, lived principally in town, or, having estates on the Hudson, + passed their winters there. To this class the Littlepages did not belong; + neither their habits nor their fortunes tempting them to so high a flight. + For myself, I was taught enough Latin and Greek to enter college, by the + Rev. Thomas Worden, an English divine, who was rector of St. Jude's, the + parish to which our family properly belonged. This gentleman was esteemed + a good scholar, and was very popular among the gentry of the county; + attending all the dinners, clubs, races, balls, and other diversions that + were given by them, within ten miles of his residence. His sermons were + pithy and short; and he always spoke of your half-hour preachers, as + illiterate prosers, who did not understand how to condense their thoughts. + Twenty minutes were his gauge, though I remember to have heard my father + say, he had known him preach all of twenty-two. When he compressed down to + fourteen, my grandfather invariably protested he was delightful. + </p> + <p> + I remained with Mr. Worden until I could translate the two first AEneids, + and the whole of the Gospel of St. Matthew, pretty readily; and then my + father and grandfather, the last in particular, for the old gentleman had + a great idea of learning, began to turn over in their minds, the subject + of the college to which I ought to be sent. We had the choice of two, in + both of which the learned languages and the sciences are taught, to a + degree, and in a perfection, that is surprising for a new country. These + colleges are Yale, at New Haven, in Connecticut, and Nassau Hall, which + was then at Newark, New Jersey, after having been a short time at + Elizabethtown, but which has since been established at Princeton. Mr. + Worden laughed at both; said that neither had as much learning as a + second-rate English grammar-school; and that a lower-form boy, at Eton or + Westminster, could take a master's degree at either, and pass for a + prodigy in the bargain. My father, who was born in the colonies, and had a + good deal of the right colony feeling, was nettled at this, I remember; + while my grandfather, being old-country born, but colony educated, was at + a loss how to view the matter. The captain had a great respect for his + native land, and evidently considered it the paradise of this earth, + though his recollections of it were not very distinct; but, at the same + time, he loved Old York, and West Chester in particular, where he had + married and established himself at Satan's Toe; or, as he spelt it, and as + we all have spelt it, now, this many a day, Satanstoe. I was present at + the conversation which decided the question, as regarded my future + education, and which took place in the common parlour, around a blazing + fire, about a week before Christmas, the year I was fourteen. There were + present Capt. Hugh Roger, Major Evans, my mother, the Rev. Mr. Worden, and + an old gentleman of Dutch designation and extraction, of the name of + Abraham Van Valkenburgh, but who was familiarly called, by his friends, + 'Brom Follock, or Col. Follock or Volleck, as the last happen to be more + or less ceremonious, or more or less Dutch. Follock, I think, however was + the favourite pronunciation. This Col. Van Valkenburgh was an old + brother-soldier of my father's, and, indeed, a relation, a sort of a + cousin through my greatgrandmother, besides being a man of much + consideration and substance. He lived in Rockland, just across the Hudson, + but never failed to pay a visit to Satanstoe at that season of the year. + On the present occasion, he was accompanied by his son, Dirck, who was <i>my</i> + friend, and just a year my junior. + </p> + <p> + “Vell, den,”—the colonel commenced the discourse by saying, as he + tapped the ashes out of his pipe for the second time that evening, having + first taken a draught of hot flip, a beverage much in vogue then, as well + as now,—“vell, den, Evans, vat is your intention as to ter poy? Vill + he pe college-l'arnt, like as his grant-fat'er, or only school-l'arnt, + like as his own fat'er?” The allusion to the grandfather being a + pleasantry of the colonel's, who insisted that all the old-country born + were “college-l'arnt” by instinct. + </p> + <p> + “To own the truth, 'Brom,” my father answered, “this is a point that is + not yet entirely settled, for there are different opinions as to the place + to which he shall be sent, even admitting that he is to be sent at all.” + </p> + <p> + The colonel fastened his full, projecting, blue eyes on my father, in a + way that pretty plainly expressed surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Vat, den, is dere so many colleges, dat it is hart to choose?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “There are but two that can be of any use to us, for Cambridge is much too + distant to think of sending the boy so far. Cambridge was in our thoughts + at one time, but that is given up.” + </p> + <p> + “Vhere, den, ist Camprige?” demanded the Dutchman, removing his pipe to + ask so important a question, a ceremony he usually thought unnecessary. + </p> + <p> + “It is a New England college—near Boston; not half a day's journey + distant, I fancy.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't sent Cornelius dere,” ejaculated the colonel, contriving to get + these words out alongside of the stem of the pipe. + </p> + <p> + “You think not, Col. Follock,” put in the anxious mother; “may I ask the + reason for that opinion?” + </p> + <p> + “Too much Suntay, Matam Littlepage—the poy wilt be sp'ilt by ter + ministers. He will go away an honest lat, and come pack a rogue. He will + l'arn how to bray and to cheat.” + </p> + <p> + “Hoity toity! my noble colonel!” exclaimed the Rev. Mr. Worden, affecting + more resentment than he felt. “Then you fancy the clergy, and too much + Sunday, will be apt to convert an honest youth into a knave!” + </p> + <p> + The colonel made no answer, continuing to smoke very philosophically, + though he took occasion, while he drew the pipe out of his mouth, in one + of its periodical removals, to make a significant gesture with it towards + the rising sun, which all present understood to mean “down east,” as it is + usual to say, when we mean to designate the colonies of New England. That + he was understood by the Rev. Mr. Worden, is highly probable; since that + gentleman continued to turn the flip of one vessel into another, by way of + more intimately blending the ingredients of the mixture, quite as coolly + as if there had been no reflection on his trade. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of Yale, friend 'Brom?” asked my father, who understood + the dumb-show as well as any of them. + </p> + <p> + “No tifference, Evans; dey all breaches and brays too much. <i>Goot</i> + men have no neet of so much religion. Vhen a man is <i>really</i> goot, + religion only does him harm. I mean Yankee religion.” + </p> + <p> + “I have another objection to Yale,” observed Capt. Hugh Roger, “which is + their English.” + </p> + <p> + “Och!” exclaimed the Colonel—“Deir English is horriple! Wuss dan ast + to us Tutch.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I was not aware of that,” observed my father. “They are English, + sir, as well as ourselves, and why should they not speak the language as + well as we?” + </p> + <p> + “Why toes not a Yorkshireman, or a Cornishman, speak as veil as a + Lonnoner? I tell you what, Evans, I'll pet the pest game-cock on ter Neck, + against the veriest tunghill the parson hast, ter Presitent of Yale calls + p e e n, pen, ant roof, ruff—and so on.” + </p> + <p> + “My birds are all game,” put in the divine; “I keep no other breed.” + </p> + <p> + “Surely, Mr. Worden, <i>you</i> do not countenance cock-fights by your + presence!” my mother said, using as much of reproach in her manner as + comported with the holy office of the party she addressed, and with her + own gentle nature. The Colonel winked at my father, and laughed <i>through + his pipe</i>, an exploit he might have been said to perform almost hourly. + My father smiled in return; for, to own the truth, he <i>had</i> been + present at such sports on one or two occasions, when the parson's + curiosity had tempted him to peep in also; but my grandfather looked grave + and much in earnest. As for Mr. Worden himself, he met the imputation like + a man. To do him justice, if he were not an ascetic, neither was he a + whining hypocrite, as is the case with too many of those who aspire to be + disciples and ministers of our blessed Lord. + </p> + <p> + “Why not, Madam Littlepage?” Mr. Worden stoutly demanded. “There are worse + places than cock-pits; for, mark me, I never bet—no, not on a + horse-race, even; and <i>that</i> is an occasion on which any gentleman + might venture a few guineas, in a liberal, frank, way. There are so few + amusements for people of education in this country, Madam Littlepage, that + one is not to be too particular. If there were hounds and hunting, now, as + there are at home, you should never hear of me at a cock-fight, I can + assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say I do not approve of cock-fights,” rejoined my mother meekly; + “and I hope Corny will never be seen at one. No—never—never.” + </p> + <p> + “Dere you're wrong, Matam Littlepage,” the Colonel remarked, “for ter + sight of ter spirit of ter cocks wilt give ter boy spirit himself. My + Tirck, dere, goes to all in ter neighbourhood and he is a game-cock + himself, let me tell you. Come, Tirck—come—cock-a-doodle-doo!” + </p> + <p> + This was true all round, as I very well knew, young as I was. Dirck, who + was as slow-moving, as dull-seeming, and as anti-mercurial a boy to look + at as one could find in a thousand, was thorough game at the bottom, and + he had been at many a main, as he had told me himself. How much of his + spirit was derived from witnessing such scenes I will not take on me to + affirm; for, in these later times, I have heard it questioned whether such + exhibitions do really improve the spectator's courage or not. But Dirck + had pluck, and plenty of it, and in that particular, at least, his father + was not mistaken. The Colonel's opinion always carried weight with my + mother, both on account of his Dutch extraction, and on account of his + well-established probity; for, to own the truth, a text or a sentiment + from him had far more weight with her than the same from the clergyman. + She was silenced on the subject of cock-fighting for the moment, + therefore, which gave Capt. Hugh Roger further opportunity to pursue that + of the English language. The grandfather, who was an inveterate lover of + the sport, would have cut in to that branch of the discourse, but he had a + great tenderness for my mother, whom everybody loved by the way, and he + commanded himself, glad to find that so important an interest had fallen + into hands as good as those of the Colonel. <i>He</i> would just as soon + be absent from church as be absent from a cock-fight, and he was a very + good observer of religion. + </p> + <p> + “I should have sent Evans to Yale, had it not been for the miserable + manner of speaking English they have in New England,” resumed my + grandfather; “and I had no wish to have a son who might pass for a Cornish + man. We shall have to send this boy to Newark, in New Jersey. The distance + is not so great, and we shall be certain he will not get any of your + round-head notions of religion, too, Col. 'Brom, you Dutch are not + altogether free from these distressing follies. + </p> + <p> + “Debble a pit!” growled the Colonel, through his pipe; for no devotee of + liberalism and latitudinarianisrn in religion could be more averse to + extra-piety than he. The Colonel, however, was not of the Dutch Reformed; + he was an Episcopalian, like ourselves, his mother having brought this + branch of the Follocks into the church; and, consequently, he entered into + all our feelings on the subject of religion, heart and hand. Perhaps Mr. + Worden was a greater favourite with no member of the four parishes over + which he presided, than with Col. Abraham Van Valkenburgh. + </p> + <p> + “I should think less of sending Corny to Newark,” added my mother, “was it + not for crossing the water.” + </p> + <p> + “Crossing the water!” repeated Mr. Worden. “The Newark we mean, Madam + Littlepage, is not at home: the Jersey of which we speak is the adjoining + colony of that came.” + </p> + <p> + “I am aware of that, Mr. Worden; but it is not possible to get to Newark, + without making that terrible voyage be tween New York and Powles' Hook. + No, sir, it is impossible; and every time the child comes home, that risk + will have to be run. It would cause me many a sleepless night!” + </p> + <p> + “He can go by Tobb's Ferry, Matam Littlepage,” quietly observed the + Colonel. + </p> + <p> + “Dobb's Ferry can be very little better than that by Powles' Hook,” + rejoined the tender mother. “A ferry is a ferry; and the Hudson will be + the Hudson, from Albany to New York. So water is water.” + </p> + <p> + As these were all self-evident propositions, they produced a pause in the + discourse; for men do not deal with new ideas as freely as they deal with + the old. + </p> + <p> + “Dere is a way, Evans, as you and I know py experience,” resumed the + Colonel, winking again at my father, “to go rount the Hudson altoget'er. + To pe sure, it is a long way, and a pit in the woots; but petter to + untertake dat, than to haf the poy lose his l'arnin'. Ter journey might be + made in two mont's, and he none the wuss for ter exercise. Ter Major and I + were never heartier dan when we were operating on the he't waters of the + Hutson. I will tell Corny the roat.” + </p> + <p> + My mother saw that her apprehensions were laughed at, and she had the good + sense to be silent. The discussion did not the less proceed, until it was + decided, after an hour more of weighing the <i>pros</i> and the <i>cons</i>, + that I was to be sent to Nassau Hall, Newark, New Jersey, and was to move + from that place with the college, whenever that event might happen. + </p> + <p> + “You will send Dirck there, too,” my father added, as soon as the affair + in my case was finally determined. “It would be a pity to separate the + boys, after they have been so long together, and have got to be so much + used to each other. Their characters are so identical, too, that they are + more like brothers than very distant relatives.” + </p> + <p> + “Dey will like one anot'er all de petter for pein' a little tifferent, + den,” answered the Colonel, drily. + </p> + <p> + Dirck and I were no more alike than a horse resembles a mule. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but Dirck is a lad who will do honour to an education—he is + solid and thoughtful, and learning will not be thrown away on such a + youth. Was he in England, that sedate lad might get to be a bishop.” + </p> + <p> + “I want no pishops in my family, Major Evans; nor do I want any great + l'arnin'. None of us ever saw a college, and we have got on fery vell. I + am a colonel and a memper; my fat'er was a colonel and a memper; and my + grand-fet'er <i>woult</i> have peen a colonel and a memper, but dere vast + no colonels and no mempers in his time; though Tirck, yonter can be a + colonel and a memper, wit'out crosting dat terriple ferry that frightens + Matam Littlepage so much.” + </p> + <p> + There was usually a little humour in all Col. Follock said and did, though + it must be owned it was humour after a very Dutch model; Dutch-built fun, + as Mr. Worden used to call it. Nevertheless, it was humour; and there was + enough of Holland in all the junior generations of the Littlepages to + enjoy it. My father understood him, and my mother did not hear the last of + the “terriple ferry” until not only I, but the college itself, had quitted + Newark; for the institution made another remove to Princeton, the place + where it is now to be found, some time before I got my degree. + </p> + <p> + “You have got on very well without a college education, as all must admit, + colonel,” answered Mr. Worden; “but there is no telling how much <i>better</i> + you would have got on, had you been an A. M. You might, in the last case, + have been a general and a member of the King's council.” + </p> + <p> + “Dere ist no yeneral in ter colony, the commander-in-chief and His + Majesty's representatif excepted,” returned the colonel. “We are no + Yankees, to make yenerals of ploughmen.” + </p> + <p> + Hereupon, the colonel and my father knocked the ashes out of their pipes + at the same instant, and both laughed,—a merriment in which the + parson, my grandfather, my dear mother, and I myself joined. Even a negro + boy, who was about my own age, and whose name was Jacob, or Jaap, but who + was commonly called Yaap, grinned at the remark, for he had a sovereign + contempt for Yankee Land, and all it contained; almost as sovereign a + contempt as that which Yankee Land entertained for York itself, and its + Dutch population. Dirck was the only person present who looked grave; but + Dirck was habitually as grave and sedate, as if he had been born to become + a burgomaster. + </p> + <p> + “Quite right, Brom,” cried my father; “<i>colonels</i> are good enough for + us; and when we do make a man <i>that</i>, even, we are a little + particular about his being respectable and fit for the office. + Nevertheless, learning will not hurt Corny, and to college he shall go, + let you do as you please with Dirck. So that matter is settled, and no + more need be said about it.” + </p> + <p> + And it was settled, and to college I <i>did</i> go, and that by the awful + Powles' Hook Ferry, in the bargain. Near as we lived to town, I paid my + first visit to the island of Manhattan the day my father and myself + started for Newark. I had an aunt, who lived in Queen Street, not a very + great distance from the fort, and she had kindly invited me and my father + to pass a day with her, on our way to New Jersey, which invitation had + been accepted. In my youth, the world in general was not as much addicted + to gadding about as it is now getting to be, and neither my grandfather + nor my father ordinarily went to town, their calls to the legislature + excepted, more than twice a year. My mother's visits were still less + frequent, although Mrs. Legge, my aunt, was her own sister. Mr. Legge was + a lawyer of a good deal of reputation, but he was inclined to be in the + opposition, or espoused the popular side in politics; and there could be + no great cordiality between one of that frame of mind and our family. I + remember we had not been in the house an hour, before a warm discussion + took place between my uncle and my father, on the question of the right of + the subject to canvass the acts of the government. We had left home + immediately after an early breakfast, in order to reach town before dark; + but a long detention at the Harlem Ferry, compelled us to dine in that + village, and it was quite night before we stopped in Queen Street. My aunt + ordered supper early, in order that we might get early to bed, to recover + from our fatigue, and be ready for sight-seeing next day. We sat down to + supper, therefore, in less than an hour after our arrival; and it was + while we were at table that the discussion I have mentioned took place. It + would seem that a party had been got up in town among the disloyal, and I + might almost say, the disaffected, which claimed for the subject the right + to know in what manner every shilling of the money raised by taxation was + expended. This very obviously improper interference with matters that did + not belong to them, on the part of the ruled, was resisted by the rulers, + and that with energy; inasmuch as such inquiries and investigations would + naturally lead to results that might bring authority into discredit, make + the governed presuming and prying in their dispositions, and cause much + derangement and inconvenience to the regular and salutary action of + government. My father took the negative of the proposition, while my uncle + maintained its affirmative. I well remember that my poor aunt looked + uneasy, and tried to divert the discourse by exciting our curiosity on a + new subject. + </p> + <p> + “Corny has been particularly lucky in having come to town just as he has, + since we shall have a sort of gala-day, to-morrow, for the blacks and the + children.” + </p> + <p> + I was not in the least offended at being thus associated with the negroes, + for they mingled in most of the amusements of us young people; but I did + not quite so well like to be ranked with the children, now I was fourteen, + and on my way to college. Notwithstanding this, I did not fail to betray + an interest in what was to come next, by my countenance. As for my father, + he did not hesitate about asking an explanation. + </p> + <p> + “The news came in this morning, by a fast-sailing sloop, that the Patroon + of Albany is on his way to New York, in his coach-and-four, and with two + out-riders, and that he may be expected to reach town in the course of + to-morrow. Several of my acquaintances have consented to let their + children go out a little way into the country, to see him come in; and, as + for the blacks, you know, it is just as well to give them <i>permission</i> + to be of the party, as half of them would otherwise go without asking it.” + </p> + <p> + “This will be a capital opportunity to let Corny see a little of the + world,” cried my father, “and I would not have him miss it on any account. + Besides, it is useful to teach young people early, the profitable lesson + of honouring their superiors and seniors.” + </p> + <p> + “In that sense it may do,” growled my uncle, who, though so much of a + latitudinarian in his political opinions never failed to inculcate all + useful and necessary maxims for private life; “the Patroon of Albany being + one of the most respectable and affluent of all our gentry. I have no + objections to Corny's going to see that sight; and, I hope, my dear, you + will let both Pompey and Caesar be of the party. It won't hurt the fellows + to see the manner in which the Patroon has his carriage kept and horses + groomed.” + </p> + <p> + Pompey and Caesar were of the party, though the latter did not join us + until Pompey had taken me all round the town, to see the principal sights; + it being understood that the Patroon had slept at Kingsbridge, and would + not be likely to reach town until near noon. New York was certainly not + the place, in 1751, it is to-day; nevertheless, it was a large and + important town, even when I went to college, containing not less than + twelve thousand souls, blacks included. The Town Hall is a magnificent + structure, standing at the head of Broad Street; and thither Pompey led + me, even before my aunt had come down to breakfast. I could scarcely + admire that fine edifice sufficiently; which, for size, architecture and + position, has scarcely now an equal in all the colonies. It is true, that + the town has much improved, within the last twenty years; but York was a + noble place, even in the middle of this century! After breakfast, Pompey + and I proceeded up Broadway, commencing near the fort, at the Bowling + Green, and walking some distance beyond the head of Wall Street, or quite + a quarter of a mile. Nor did the town stop here; though its principal + extent is, or was then, along the margin of the East River. Trinity Church + I could hardly admire enough either; for, it appeared to me, that it was + large enough to contain all the church-people in the colony. <a + href="#linknote-3" name="linknoteref-3" id="linknoteref-3"><small>3</small></a> + It was a venerable structure, which had then felt the heats of summer and + the snows of winter on its roofs and walls, near half a century, and it + still stands a monument of pious zeal and cultivated taste. There were + other churches, belonging to other denominations, of course, that were + well worthy of being seen; to say nothing of the markets. I thought I + never should tire of gazing at the magnificence of the shops, particularly + the silversmiths'; some of which must have had a thousand dollars' worth + of plate in their windows, or otherwise in sight. I might say as much of + the other shops, too, which attracted a just portion of my admiration. + </p> + <p> + About eleven, the number of children and blacks that were seen walking + towards the Bowery Road, gave us notice that it was time to be moving in + that direction. We were in the upper part of Broadway, at the time, and + Pompey proceeded forthwith to fall into the current, making all the haste + he could, as it was thought the traveller might pass down towards the East + River, and get into Queen Street, before we could reach the point at which + he would diverge. It is true, the old town residence of Stephen de Lancey, + which stood at the head of Broadway, just above Trinity, <a + href="#linknote-4" name="linknoteref-4" id="linknoteref-4"><small>4</small></a> + had been converted into a tavern, and we did not know but the Patroon + might choose to alight there, as it was then the principal inn of the + town; still, most people preferred Queen Street; and the new City Tavern + was so much out of the way, that strangers in particular were not fond of + frequenting it. Caesar came up, much out of breath, just as we got into + the country. + </p> + <p> + Quitting Broadway, we went along the country road that then diverged to + the east, but which is now getting to contain a sort of suburb, and + passing the road that leads into Queen Street, we felt more certain of + meeting the traveller, whose carriage we soon learned had not gone by. As + there were and are several taverns for country people in this quarter, + most of us went quite into the country, proceeding as far as the villas of + the Bayards, de Lanceys, and other persons of mark; of which there are + several along the Bowery Road. Our party stopped under some cherry-trees, + that were not more than a mile from town, nearly opposite to Lt. Gov. de + Lancey's country-house; <a href="#linknote-5" name="linknoteref-5" + id="linknoteref-5"><small>5</small></a> but many boys &c. went a long + long way into the country, finishing the day by nutting and gathering + apples in the grounds of Petersfield and Rosehill, the country residences + of the Stuyvesant and Watt, or, as the last is now called the Watts, + families. I was desirous of going thus far myself, for I had heard much of + both of those grand places; but Pompey told me it would be necessary to be + back for dinner by half-past one, his mistress having consented to + postpone the hour a little, in order to indulge my natural desire to see + all I could while in town. + </p> + <p> + We were not altogether children and blacks who were out on the Bowery Road + that day,—many tradesmen were among us, the leathern aprons making a + goodly parade on the occasion. I saw one or two persons wearing swords, + hovering round, in the lanes and in the woods,—proof that even + gentlemen had some desire to see so great a person as the Patroon of + Albany pass. I shall not stop to say much of the <i>transit</i> of the <i>Patroon</i>. + He came by about noon, as was expected, and in his coach-and-four, with + two out-riders, coach-man, &c. in liveries, as is usual in the + families of the gentry, and with a team of heavy, black, Dutch-looking + horses, that I remember Caesar pronounced to be of the true Flemish breed. + The Patroon himself was a sightly, well-dressed gentleman, wearing a + scarlet coat, flowing wig, and cocked hat; and I observed that the handle + of his sword was of solid silver. But my father wore a sword with a solid + silver handle, too, a present from my grandfather when the former first + entered the army. <a href="#linknote-6" name="linknoteref-6" + id="linknoteref-6"><small>6</small></a> He bowed to the salutations he + received in passing, and I thought all the spectators were pleased with + the noble sight of seeing such an equipage pass into the town. Such a + sight does not occur every day in the colonies, and I felt exceedingly + happy that it had been my privilege to witness it. + </p> + <p> + A little incident occurred to myself that rendered this day long memorable + to me. Among the spectators assembled along the road on this occasion, + were several groups of girls, who belonged to the better class, and who + had been induced to come out into the country, either led by curiosity or + by the management of the different sable nurses who had them in charge. In + one of these groups was a girl of about ten, or possibly of eleven years + of age, whose dress, air, and mien, early attracted my attention. I + thought her large, bright, full, blue eye, particularly winning; and boys + of fourteen are not altogether insensible to beauty in the other sex, + though they are possibly induced oftener to regard it in those who are + older than in those who are younger than themselves. Pompey happened to be + acquainted with Silvy, the negress who had the care of my little beauty, + to whom he bowed, and addressed as Miss Anneke (Anna Cornelia + abbreviated). Anneke I thought a very pretty name too, and some little + advances were made towards an acquaintance by means of an offering of some + fruit that I had gathered by the way-side. Things were making a + considerable progress, and I had asked several questions, such as whether + 'Miss Anneke had ever seen a patroon,' which 'was the greatest personage, + a patroon or a governor, whether 'a nobleman who had lately been in the + colony, as a military officer, or the patroon, would be likely to have the + finest coach,' when a butcher's boy, who was passing, rudely knocked an + apple out of Anneke's hand, and caused her to shed a tear. + </p> + <p> + I took fire at this unprovoked outrage, and lent the fellow a dig in the + ribs that gave him to understand the young lady had a protector. My chap + was about my own age and weight, and he surveyed me a minute with a + species of contempt, and then beckoned me to follow him into an orchard + that was hard by, but a little out of sight. In spite of Anneke's + entreaties I went, and Pompey and Caesar followed. We had both stripped + before the negroes got up, for they were in a hot discussion whether I was + to be permitted to fight or not. Pompey maintained it would keep dinner + waiting; but Caesar, who had the most bottom, as became his name, + insisted, as I had given a blow, I was bound to render satisfaction. + Luckily, Mr. Worden was very skilful at boxing, and he had given both + Dirck and myself many lessons, so that I soon found myself the best + fellow. I gave the butcher's boy a bloody nose and a black eye, when he + gave in, and I came off victor; not, however, without a facer or two, that + sent me to college with a reputation I hardly merited, or that of a + regular pugilist. + </p> + <p> + When I returned to the road, after this breathing, Anneke <a + href="#linknote-7" name="linknoteref-7" id="linknoteref-7"><small>7</small></a> + had disappeared, and I was so shy and silly as not to ask her family name + from Caesar the Great, or Pompey the Little. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-3" id="linknote-3"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 3 (<a href="#linknoteref-3">return</a>)<br /> [ The intelligent reader + will, of course, properly appreciate the provincial admiration of Mr. + Littlepage, who naturally fancied his own best was other people's best. + The Trinity of that day was burned in the great fire of 1776. The edifice + that succeeded it, at the peace of 1783, has already given place to a + successor, that has more claim to be placed on a level with modern, + English, town church-architecture, than any other building in the Union. + When another shall succeed this, which shall be as much larger and more + elaborated than this is compared to its predecessor, and still another + shall succeed, which shall bear the same relation to that, then the + country will possess an edifice that is on a level with the first-rate + Gothic cathedral-architecture of Europe. It would be idle to pretend that + the new Trinity is without faults; some of which are probably the result + of circumstances and necessity; but, if the respectable architect who has + built it, had no other merit, he would deserve the gratitude of every man + of taste in the country, by placing church-towers of a proper comparative + breadth, dignity and proportions, before the eyes of its population. The + diminutive meanness of American church-towers, has been an eye-sore to + every <i>intelligent</i>, travelled American, since the country was + settled.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-4" id="linknote-4"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 4 (<a href="#linknoteref-4">return</a>)<br /> [ The site of the present + City Hotel.—ED.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-5" id="linknote-5"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 5 (<a href="#linknoteref-5">return</a>)<br /> [ Now, de Lancey Street.—ED.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-6" id="linknote-6"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 6 (<a href="#linknoteref-6">return</a>)<br /> [ This patroon must have been + Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, who lived to be a bachelor of forty before he + married. If there be no anachrenism, this gentleman married Miss Van + Cortlandt, one of the seven daughters of Stephanus Van Cortlandt, who was + proprietor of the great manor of Cortlandt, West Chester county, and who, + in his day, was the principal personage of the colony. The seven daughters + of this Colonel Van Cortlandt, by marrying into the families of de Lancey, + Bayard, Van Rensellaer, Beekman, M'Gregor—Skinner, &c. &c. + brought together a connection that was long felt in the political affairs + of New York. The Schuylers were related through a previous marriage, and + many of the Long Island and other families of weight by other alliances. + This connection formed the court party, which was resisted by an + opposition led by the Livingstons, Morris, and other names of <i>their</i> + connection. This old bachelor, Jeremiah Van Rensellaer, believing he would + never marry, alienated, in behalf of his next brother and anticipated + heir, the Greenbush and Claverack estates,—portions of those vast + possessions which, in our day, and principally through the culpable + apathy, or miserable demagogueism of those who have been entrusted with + the care of the public weal, have been the pretext for violating some of + the plainest laws of morality that God has communicated to man.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-7" id="linknote-7"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 7 (<a href="#linknoteref-7">return</a>)<br /> [ Pronounced On-na-<i>kay</i>, + I believe.—EDITOR] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Believe me, thou talkest of an admirable conceited fellow. Has + he any unbraided wares?” + + “Pr'ythee, bring him in; and let him approach singing.” + + <i>Winter's Tale</i>. +</pre> + <p> + I have no intention of taking the reader with me through college, where I + remained the usual term of four years. These four years were not idled + away, as sometimes happens, but were fairly improved. I read all of the + New Testament, in Greek; several of Cicero's Orations; every line of + Horace, Satires and Odes; four books of the Iliad; Tully de Oratore, + throughout; besides paying proper attention to geography, mathematics, and + other of the usual branches. Moral philosophy, in particular, was closely + attended to, senior year, as well as Astronomy. We had a telescope that + showed us all four of Jupiter's moons. In other respects, Nassau might be + called the seat of learning. One of our class purchased a second-hand copy + of Euripides, in town, and we had it in college all of six months; though + it was never my good fortune to see it, as the young man who owned it, was + not much disposed to let profane eyes view his treasure. Nevertheless, I + am certain the copy of the work was in college; and we took good care to + let the Yale men hear of it more than once. I do not believe <i>they</i> + ever saw even the outside of an Euripides. As for the telescope, I can + testify of my own knowledge; having seen the moons of Jupiter as often as + ten times, with my own eyes, aided by its magnifiers. We had a tutor who + was expert among the stars, and who, it was generally believed, would have + been able to see the ring of Saturn, could he have found the planet; + which, as it turned out, he was unable to do. + </p> + <p> + My four college years were very happy years. The vacations came often, and + I went home invariably; passing a day or two with my aunt Legge, in going + or coming. The acquisition of knowledge was always agreeable to me; and I + may say it without vanity, I trust, at this time of life, I got the third + honour of my class. We should have graduated four, but one of our class + was compelled to quit us at the end of junior year, on account of his + health. He was an unusually hard student, and it was generally admitted + that he would have taken the first honour had he remained. We were thought + to acquit ourselves with credit at the commencement; although I afterwards + heard my grandfather tell Mr. Worden, that he was of opinion the addresses + would have been more masculine and commendable, had less been said of the + surprising growth, prosperity, and power of the colonies. He had no + objection to the encouragement of a sound, healthful, patriotic feeling; + but to him it appeared that something more novel might have better pleased + the audience. This may have been true, as all three of us had something to + say on the subject; and it is a proof how much we thought alike, that our + language was almost as closely assimilated as our ideas. + </p> + <p> + As for the Powles Hook Ferry, it was an unpleasant place I will allow; + though by the time I was junior I thought nothing of it. My mother, + however, was glad when it was passed for the last time. I remember the + very first words that escaped her, after she had kissed me on my final + return from college, were, “Well, Heaven be praised, Corny! you will never + again have any occasion to cross that frightful ferry, now college is + completely done with!” My poor mother little knew how much greater dangers + I was subsequently called on to encounter, in another direction. Nor was + she minutely accurate in her anticipations, since I have crossed the ferry + in question, several times in later life; the distances not appearing to + be as great, of late years, as they certainly seemed to be in my youth. + </p> + <p> + It was a feather in a young man's cap to have gone through college in + 1755, which was the year I graduated. It is true, the University men, who + had been home for their learning, were more or less numerous; but they + were of a class that held itself aloof from the smaller gentry, and most + of them were soon placed in office, adding the dignity of public trusts to + their acquisitions—the former in a manner overshadowing the latter. + But, I was nearer to the body of the community, and my position admitted + more of comparative excellence, as it might be. No one thinks of certain + habits, opinions, manners, and tastes, in the circle where they are + expected to be found; but, it is a different thing where all, or any of + these peculiarities form the exception. I am afraid more was anticipated + from my college education than has ever been realized; but I will say this + for my <i>Alma Mater</i>, that I am not conscious my acquisitions at + college have ever been of any disadvantage to me; and I rather think they + have, in some degree at least, contributed to the little success that has + attended my humble career. + </p> + <p> + I kept up my intimacy with Dirck Follock, during the whole time I remained + at college. He continued the classics with Mr. Worden, for two years after + I left the school; but I could not discover that his progress amounted to + anything worth mentioning. The master used to tell the Colonel, that + “Dirck's progress was slow and sure;” and this did not fail to satisfy a + man who had a constitutional aversion to much of the head-over-heels rate + of doing things among the English population. Col. Follock, as we always + called him, except when my father or grandfather asked him to drink a + glass of wine, or drank his health in the first glass after the cloth was + removed, when he was invariably styled Col. Van Valkenburgh, at full + length; but Col. Follock was quite content that his son and heir should + know no more than he knew himself, after making proper allowances for the + difference in years and experience. By the time I returned home, however, + a material change had been made in the school. Mr. Worden fell heir to a + moderate competency at home, and he gave up teaching, a business he had + never liked, accordingly. It was even thought he was a shade less zealous + in his parochial duties, after the acquisition of this fifty pounds + sterling a-year, than he had previously been; though I am far from + insisting on the fact's being so. At any rate, it was not in the power of + £50 per annum to render Mr. Worden apathetic on the subject of the church; + for he continued a most zealous churchman down to the hour of his death; + and this was something, even admitting that he was not quite so zealous as + a Christian. The church being the repository of the faith, if not the + faith itself, it follows that its friends are akin to religion, though not + absolutely religious. I have always liked a man the better for being what + I call a sound, warm-hearted churchman, though his habits may have been a + little free. + </p> + <p> + It was necessary to supply the place left vacant by the emigration of Mr. + Worden, or to abandon a school that had got to be the nucleus of knowledge + in Westchester. There was a natural desire, at first, to obtain another + scholar from home; but no such person offering, a Yale College graduate + was accepted, though not without sundry rebellions, and plenty of + distrust. The moment he appeared, Col. Follock, and Major Nicholas + Oothout, another respectable Dutch neighbour, withdrew their sons; and + from that hour Dirck never went to school again. It is true, Westchester + was not properly a Dutch county, like Rockland, and Albany, and Orange, + and several others along the river; but it had many respectable families + in it, of that extraction, without alluding to such heavy people as the + Van Cortlandts, Felipses, Beekmans, and two or three others of that stamp. + Most of our important county families had a different origin, as in the + case of the Morrises, of Morrisania, and of the Manor of Fordham, the + Pells, of Pelham, the Heathcotes, of Mamanneck, the branch of the de + Lanceys, at West Farms, the Jays, of Rye, &c., &c. All these came + of the English, or the Huguenot stock. Among these last, more or less + Dutch blood was to be found, however; though Dutch prejudices were a good + deal weakened. Although few of these persons sent their boys to this + school, they were consulted in the selection of a master; and I have + always supposed that their indifference was the cause that the county + finally obtained the services of a Yankee, from Yale. + </p> + <p> + The name of the new pedagogue was Jason Newcome, or, as he pronounced the + latter appellation himself, Noo-come. As he affected a pedantic way of + pronouncing the last syllable long, or as it was spelt, he rather called + himself Noo-comb, instead of Newcome, as is the English mode, whence he + soon got the nick-name of Jason Old Comb among the boys; the lank, orderly + arrangement of his jet-black, and somewhat greasy-looking locks, + contributing their share towards procuring for him the <i>sobriquet</i>, + as I believe the French call it. As this Mr. Newcome will have a material + part to play in the succeeding portions of this narrative, it may be well + to be a little more minute in his description. + </p> + <p> + I found Jason fully established in the school, on my return from college. + I remember we met very much like two strange birds, that see each other + for the first time on the same dunghill; or two quadrupeds, in their + original interview in a common herd. It was New Haven against Newark; + though the institution, after making as many migrations as the House of + Loretto, finally settled down at Princeton, a short time before I took my + degree. I was consequently entitled to call myself a graduate of Newark,—a + sort of scholar that is quite as great a curiosity in the country as a + Queen Anne's farthing, or a book printed in the fifteenth century. I + remember the first evening we two spent in company, as well as if the + meeting occurred only last night. It was at Satanstoe, and Mr. Worden was + present. Jason had a liberal supply of puritanical notions, which were + bred in-and-in in his moral, and I had almost said, in his physical + system; nevertheless, he could unbend; and I did not fail to observe that + very evening, a gleam of covert enjoyment on his sombre countenance, as + the hot-stuff, the cards, and the pipes were produced, an hour or two + before supper,—a meal we always had hot and comfortable. This covert + satisfaction, however, was not exhibited without certain misgiving looks, + as if the neophyte in these innocent enjoyments distrusted his right to + possess his share. I remember in particular, when my mother laid two or + three new, clean packs of cards on the table, that Jason cast a stealthy + glance over his shoulder, as if to make certain that the act was not noted + by the minister, or the “neighbours.” The neighbours!—what a + contemptible being a man becomes, who lives in constant dread of the + comments and judgments of these social supervisors! and what a wretch, the + habit of deferring to no principle better than their decision has made + many a being, who has had originally the materials of something better in + him, than has been developed by the <i>surveillance</i> of ignorance, + envy, vulgarity, gossiping and lying! In those cases in which education, + social position, opportunities and experience have made any material + difference between the parties, the man who yields to such a government, + exhibits the picture of a giant held in bondage by a pigmy. I have always + remarked, too, that they who are best qualified to sit in this + neighbourhood-tribunal, generally keep most aloof from it, as repugnant to + their tastes and habits, thus leaving its decisions to the portion of the + community least qualified to make such as are either just or enlightened. + </p> + <p> + I felt a disposition to laugh outright, at the manner in which Jason + betrayed a sneaking consciousness of crime, as he saw my meek, innocent, + simple-minded, just and warm-hearted mother lay the cards on the table + that evening. His sense of guilt was purely conventional, while my + mother's sense of innocence existed in the absence of false instruction, + and in the purity of her intentions. One had been taught no exaggerated + and false notion of sin,—nay, a notion that is impious, as it is + clearly impious in man to torture acts that are perfectly innocent, <i>per + se</i>, into formal transgressions of the law of God,—while the + other had been educated under the narrow and exaggerated notions of a + provincial sect, and had obtained a species of conscience that was purely + dependent on his miserable schooling. I heard my grandfather say that + Jason actually showed the white of his eyes the first time he saw Mr. + Worden begin to deal, and he still looked, the whole time we were at + whist, as if he expected some one might enter, and tell of his + delinquency, I soon discovered that Jason had a much greater dread of + being told of, than of doing such things as taking a hand at whist, or + drinking a glass of punch, from which I inferred his true conscience drew + perceptible distinctions between the acts and the penalties he had been + accustomed to see inflicted on them. He was much disposed to a certain + sort of frailty; but it was a sneaking disposition to the last. + </p> + <p> + But, the amusing part of the exhibition, that first evening of our + acquaintance, was Mr. Worden's showing off his successor's familiarity + with the classics. Jason had not the smallest notion of quantity; and he + pronounced the Latin very much as one would read Mohawk, from a vocabulary + made out by a hunter, or a savant of the French Academy. As I had received + the benefit of Mr. Worden's own instruction, I could do better, and, + generally, my knowledge of the classics went beyond that of Jason's. The + latter's English, too, was long a source of amusement with us all, though + my grandfather often expressed strong disgust at it. Even Col. Follock did + not scruple to laugh at Newcome's English, which, as he frequently took + occasion to say, “hat a ferry remarkaple sount to it.” As this peculiarity + of Jason's extended a good way into the Anglo-Saxon race, in the part of + the country in which he was born, it may be well to explain what I mean a + little more at large. + </p> + <p> + Jason was the son of an ordinary Connecticut farmer, of the usual + associations, and with no other pretension to education than such as was + obtained in a common school, or any reading which did not include the + Scriptures, some half-dozen volumes of sermons and polemical works, all + the latter of which were vigorously as well as narrowly one-sided, and a + few books that had been expressly written to praise New England, and to + undervalue all the rest of the earth. As the family knew nothing of the + world beyond the limits of its own township, and an occasional visit to + Hartford, on what is called “election-day,” Jason's early life was + necessarily of the most contracted experience. His English, as a matter of + course, was just that of his neighbourhood and class of life; which was + far from being either very elegant or very Doric. But on this rustic, + provincial, or rather, hamlet foundation, Jason had reared a + superstructure of New Haven finish and proportions. As he kept school + before he went to college, while he was in college, and after he left + college, the whole energies of his nature became strangely directed to + just such reforms of language as would be apt to strike the imagination of + a pedagogue of his calibre. In the first place, he had brought from home + with him a great number of sounds that were decidedly vulgar and vicious, + and with these in full existence in himself, he had commenced his system + of reform on other people. As is common with all tyros, he fancied a very + little knowledge sufficient authority for very great theories. His first + step was to improve the language, by adapting sound to spelling and he + insisted on calling angel, <i>an</i>-gel, because a-n spelt an; chamber, + <i>cham</i>-ber, for the same reason; and so on through a long catalogue + of similarly constructed words. + </p> + <p> + “English,” he did not pronounce as “__lish” but as “_Eng_lish,” for + instance; and “nothing” (anglicè <i>nuth</i>ing), as <i>noth</i>-ing; or, + perhaps, it were better to say “<i>naw</i>thin'.” While Jason showed + himself so much of a purist with these and many other words, he was guilty + of some of the grossest possible mistakes, that were directly in + opposition to his own theory. Thus, while he affectedly pronounced “none,” + (nun,) as “known,” he did not scruple to call “stone,” “stun,” and “home,” + “hum.” The idea of pronouncing “clerk,” as it should be, or “clark,” + greatly shocked him, as it did to call “hearth,” “h'arth;” though he did + not hesitate to call this good earth of ours, the “'arth.” “Been,” he + pronounced “ben,” of course, and “roof,” he called “ruff,” in spite of all + his purism. + </p> + <p> + From the foregoing specimens, half a dozen among a thousand, the reader + will get an accurate notion of this weakness in Jason's character. It was + heightened by the fact that the young man commenced his education, such as + it was, late in life, and it is rare indeed that either knowledge or + tastes thus acquired are entirely free from exaggeration. Though Jason was + several years my senior, like myself he was a recent graduate, and it will + be easy enough to imagine the numberless discussions that took place + between us, on the subject of our respective acquisitions. I say + 'respective,' instead of mutual acquisitions, because there was nothing + mutual about it, or <i>them</i>. Neither our classics, our philosophy, nor + our mathematics would seem to have been the same, but each man apparently + had a science, or a language of his own, and which had been derived from + the institution where he had been taught. In the classics I was much the + strongest, particularly in the quantities, but Jason had the best of it in + mathematics. In spite of his conceit, his vulgarity, his English, his + provincialism, and the awkwardness with which he wore his tardily acquired + information, this man had strong points about him, and a native shrewdness + that would have told much more in his favour had it not been accompanied + by a certain evasive manner, that caused one constantly to suspect his + sincerity, and which often induced those who were accustomed to him, to + imagine he had a sneaking propensity that rendered him habitually + hypocritical. Jason held New York in great contempt; a feeling he was not + always disposed to conceal, and of necessity his comparisons were usually + made with the state of things in Connecticut, and much to the advantage of + the latter. To one thing, however, he was much disposed to defer, and that + was money. Connecticut had not then, nor has it now, a single individual + who would be termed rich in New York; and Jason, spite of his provincial + conceit, spite of his overweening notions of moral and intellectual + superiority, could no more prevent this profound deference for wealth, + than he could substitute for a childhood of vulgarity and neglect, the + grace, refinement and knowledge which the boys of the more fortunate + classes in life obtain as it might be without knowing it. Yes, Jason bowed + down to the golden calf, in spite of his puritanism, his love of liberty, + his pretension to equality and the general strut of his disposition and + manner. + </p> + <p> + Such is an outline of the character and qualifications of the man whom I + found, on my return from college, at the head of Mr. Worden's school. We + soon became acquainted, and I do not know which got the most ideas from + the other, in course of the first fortnight. Our conversation and + arguments were free, almost to rudeness, and little mercy was shown to our + respective prejudices. Jason was ultra leveling in his notions of social + intercourse, while I had the opinions of my own colony, in which the + distinctions of classes are far more strongly marked than is usual in New + England, out of Boston, and its immediate association. Still Jason + deferred to names, as well as money, though it was in a way very different + from my own. New England was, and is, loyal to the crown; but having the + right to name many of its own governors, and possessing many other + political privileges through the charters that were granted to her people, + in order to induce them to settle that portion of the continent, they do + not always manifest the feeling in a way to be agreeable to those who have + a proper reverence for the crown. Among other points, growing out of this + difference in training, Jason and I had sundry arguments on the subject of + professions, trades and callings. It was evident he fancied the occupation + of a schoolmaster next in honour to that of a clergyman. The clergy formed + a species of aristocracy, according to his notions; but no man could + commence life under more favourable auspices, than by taking a school. The + following dialogue occurred between us, on this subject; and I was so much + struck with the novelty of my companion's notions, as to make a note of + it, as soon as we parted. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder your folks don't think of giving you suthin' to do, Corny,” + commenced Jason, one day, after our acquaintance had ripened into a sort + of belligerent intimacy. “You're near nineteen, now, and ought to begin to + think of bringing suthin' in, to pay for all the outgoings.” + </p> + <p> + By “your folks,” Jason meant the family of Littlepage; and the blood of + that family quickened a little within me, fit the idea of being profitably + employed, in the manner intimated, because I had reached the mature and + profitable age of nineteen. + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you exactly, Mr. Newcome, by your bringing something + in,” answered I, with dignity enough to put a man of ordinary delicacy on + his guard. + </p> + <p> + “Bringing suthin' in is good English, I hope, Mr. Littlepage. I mean that + your edication has cost your folks enough to warrant them in calling on + you for a little interest. How much do you suppose, now, has been spent on + your edication, beginning at the time you first went to Mr. Worden, and + leaving off the day you quitted Newark?” + </p> + <p> + “Really, I have not the smallest notion; the subject has never crossed my + mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Did the old folks never say anything to you about it?—never foot up + the total?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure it is not easy to see how this could be done, for I could not + help them in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “But your father's books would tell that, as doubtless it all stands + charged against you.” + </p> + <p> + “Stands charged against me!—How, sir! do you imagine my father makes + a charge in a book against me, whenever he pays a few pounds for my + education?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; how else could he tell how much you have had?—though, on + reflection, as you are an only child, it does not make so much difference. + You probably will get all, in the end.” + </p> + <p> + “And had I a brother, or a sister, do you imagine, Mr. Newcome, each + shilling we spent would be set down in a book, as charges against us?” + </p> + <p> + “How else, in natur', could it be known which had had the most, or any + sort of justice be done between you?” + </p> + <p> + “Justice would be done, by our common father's giving to each just as much + of his own money as he might see fit. What is it to me, if he chose to + give my brother a few hundred pounds more than he chose to give to me? The + money is his, and he may do with it as he choose.” + </p> + <p> + “An hundred pounds is an awful sight of money!” exclaimed Jason, betraying + by his countenance how deeply he felt the truth of this. “If you have had + money in such large sums, so much the more reason why you should set about + doing suthin' to repay the old gentleman. Why not set up a school?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Why not set up a school, I say? You might have had this of mine, had you + been a little older; but once in, fast in, with me. Still, schools are + wanted, and you might get a tolerable good recommend. I dare say your + tutor would furnish a certificate.” + </p> + <p> + This word “recommend” was used by Jason for “recommendation” the habit of + putting verbs in the places of substantives, and <i>vice versa</i>, being + much in vogue with him. + </p> + <p> + “And do you really think that one who is destined to inherit Satanstoe, + would act advisedly to set up a school? Recollect, Mr. Newcome, that my + father and grandfather have both borne the king's commission; and that the + last bears it, at this very moment, through his representative, the + Governor.” + </p> + <p> + “What of all that? What better business is there than keeping a good + school? If you are high in your notions, get to be made a tutor in that + New Jersey college. Recollect that a tutor in a college is somebody. I did + hope for such a place, but having a Governor's son against me, as a + candidate, there was no chance.” + </p> + <p> + “A Governor's son a candidate for a tutorship in a college! You are + pleased to trifle with me, Mr. Newcome.” + </p> + <p> + “It's true as the gospel. You thought some smaller fish put me down, but + he was the son of the Governor. But, why do you give that vulgar name to + your father's farm—Satanstoe is not decent; yet, Corny, I've heard + you use it before your own mother!” + </p> + <p> + “That you may hear every day, and my mother use it, too, before her own + son. What fault do you find with the name of Satanstoe?” + </p> + <p> + “Fault!—In the first place it is irreligious and profane; then it is + ungenteel and vulgar, and only fit to be used in low company. Moreover, it + is opposed to history and revelation, the Evil One having a huff, if you + will, but no toes. Such a name couldn't stand a fortnight before public + opinion in New England.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that may be very true; but we do not care enough for His Satanic + Majesty in the colony of New York, to treat him with so much deference. As + for the 'huffs,' as you call them——” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what do <i>you</i> call 'em, Mr. Littlepage?” + </p> + <p> + “Hoofs, Mr. Newcome; that is the New York pronunciation of the word.” + </p> + <p> + “I care nothing for York pronunciation, which everybody knows is Dutch and + full of corruptions. You'll never do anything worth speaking of in this + colony, Corny, until you pay more attention to your schools.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know what you call attention, Mr. Jason, unless we have paid it + already. Here, I have the caption, or rather preamble of a law, on that + very subject, that I copied out of the statute-book on purpose to show + you, and which I will now read in order to prove to you how things really + stand in the colony.” + </p> + <p> + “Read away,” rejoined Jason, with an air of sufficient disdain. + </p> + <p> + Read I did, and in the following sententious and comprehensive language, + viz:—“Whereas the youth of this colony are found, by manifold + experience, to be not inferior in their natural geniuses to the youth of + any other country in the world, therefore be it enacted, &c.” <a + href="#linknote-8" name="linknoteref-8" id="linknoteref-8"><small>8</small></a> + </p> + <p> + “There, sir,” I said in exultation, “you have chapter and verse for the + true character of the rising generation in the colony of New York.” + </p> + <p> + “And what does that preamble lead to?” demanded Jason, a little staggered + at finding the equality of our New York intellects established so clearly + by legislative enactment. + </p> + <p> + “It is the preamble to an act establishing the free schools of New York, + in which the learned languages have now been taught these twenty years; + and you will please to remember that another law has not long been passed + establishing a college in town.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, curious laws sometimes do get into the statute-books, and a body + must take them as he finds them. I dare say Connecticut might have a word + to say on the same subject, if you would give her a chance. Have you heard + the wonderful news from Philadelphia, Corny, that has just come among us?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard nothing of late; for you know I have been over in Rockland, + with Dirck Follock, for the last two weeks, and news never reaches that + family, or indeed that county.” + </p> + <p> + “No, that is true enough,” answered Jason, drily; “News and a Dutchman + have no affinity, or attraction, as we would say in philosophy; though + there is gravitation enough on one side, ha! boy?” + </p> + <p> + Here Jason laughed outright, for he was always delighted whenever he could + get a side-hit at the children of Holland, whom he appeared to regard as a + race occupying a position between the human family and the highest class + of the unintellectual animals. But it is unnecessary to dwell longer on + this dialogue, my object being merely to show the general character of + Jason's train of thought, in order to be better understood when I come to + connect his opinions with his acts. + </p> + <p> + Dirck and myself were much together after my return from college. I passed + weeks at a time with him, and he returned my visits with the utmost + freedom and good-will. Each of us had now got his growth, and it would + have done the heart of Frederick of Prussia good, to have seen my young + friend after he had ended his nineteenth year. In stature he measured + exactly six feet three, and he gave every promise of filling up in + proportion. Dirck was none of your roundly-turned, Apollo-built fellows, + but he had shoulders that his little, short, solid, but dumpy-looking + mother, who was of the true stock, could scarcely span, when she pulled + his head down to give him a kiss; which she did regularly, as Dirck told + me himself, twice each year; that is to say, Christmas and New-Year. His + complexion was fair, his limbs large and well proportioned, his hair + light, his eyes blue, and his face would have been thought handsome by + most persons. I will not deny, however, that there was a certain + ponderosity, both of mind and body, about my friend, that did not very + well accord with the general notion of grace and animation. Nevertheless, + Dirck was a sterling fellow, as true as steel, as brave as a game-cock, + and as honest as noon-day light. + </p> + <p> + Jason was a very different sort of person, in many essentials. In figure, + he was also tall, but he was angular, loose-jointed and swinging—slouching + would be the better word, perhaps. Still, he was not without strength, + having worked on a farm until he was near twenty; and he was as active as + a cat; a result that took the stranger a little by surprise, when he + regarded only his loose, quavering sort of build. In the way of thought, + Jason would think two feet to Dirck's one; but I am far from certain that + it was always in so correct a direction. Give the Dutchman time, he was + very apt to come out right; whereas Jason, I soon discovered, was quite + liable to come to wrong conclusions, and particularly so in all matters + that were a little adverse, and which affected his own apparent interests. + Dirck, moreover, was one of the best-natured fellows that breathed; it + being almost impossible to excite him to anger; when it did come, however, + the earthquake was scarcely more terrific. I have seen him enraged, and + would as soon encounter a wild-boar in an open field, as run against his + course, while in the fit. + </p> + <p> + Modesty will hardly permit me to say much of myself. I was well-grown, + active, strong, for my years; and, I am inclined to think, reasonably + well-looking; though I would prefer that this much should be said by any + one but myself. Dirck and I often tried our manhood together, when + youngsters, and I was the better chap until my friend reached his + eighteenth year, when the heavy metal of the young Dutch giant told in our + struggles. After that period was past, I found Dirck too much for me, in a + close gripe, though my extraordinary activity rendered the inequality less + apparent than it might otherwise have proved. I ought not to apply the + term of “extraordinary” to anything about myself, but the word escaped me + unconsciously, and I shall let it stand. One thing I will say, + notwithstanding, let the reader think of it as he may: I was good-natured + and well-disposed to my fellow-creatures, and had no greater love of money + than was necessary to render me reasonably discreet. + </p> + <p> + Such is an outline of the characters and persons of three of the principal + actors in the scenes I am about to relate; scenes that will possess some + interest for those who love to read accounts of adventures in a new + country, however much they may fail in interesting others, when I speak of + the condition and events of the more civilized condition of society, that + was enjoyed, even in my youth, in such old counties as Westchester, and + such towns as York. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-8" id="linknote-8"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 8 (<a href="#linknoteref-8">return</a>)<br /> [ This quotation would seem + to be accurate, and it is somewhat curious to trace the reason why a + preamble so singular should have been prefixed to the law. Was it not + owing to the oft-repeated and bold assertions of Europeans, that man + deteriorated in this hemisphere? Any American who has been a near observer + of European opinion, even in our day, must have been frequently amused at + the expression of surprise and doubt that so often escapes the residents + of the Old World, when they discover anything that particularly denotes + talent coming from the New. I make little question that this extraordinary + preamble is a sort of indirect answer to an imputation that was known to + be as general, in that age, as it was felt to be unjust. My own experience + would lead me to think native capacity more abundant in America than in + the midland countries of Europe, and quite as frequently met with as in + Italy itself; and I have often heard teachers, both English and French, + admit that their American and West-India scholars were generally the + readiest and cleverest in their schools. The great evil under which this + country labours, in this respect, is the sway of numbers, which is + constantly elevating mediocrity and spurious talent to high places. In + America we have a <i>higher average</i> of intelligence, while we have far + less of the <i>higher class;</i> and I attribute the latter fact to the + control of those who have never enjoyed the means of appreciating + excellence.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Let us, then, be up and doing, + With a heart for any fate; + Still achieving, still pursuing, + Learn to labour and to wait.” + + LONGFELLOW. +</pre> + <p> + The spring of the year I was twenty, Dirck and myself paid our first visit + to town, in the characters of young men. Although Satanstoe was not more + than five-and-twenty miles from New York, by the way of King's-Bridge, the + road we always travelled in order to avoid the ferry, it was by no means + as common to visit the capital as it has since got to be. I know gentlemen + who pass in and out from our neighbourhood, now, as often as once a + fortnight, or even once a week; but thirty years since this was a thing + very seldom done. My dear mother always went to town twice a year; in the + spring to pass Easter week, and in the autumn to make her winter + purchases. My father usually went down four times, in the course of the + twelve months, but he had the reputation of a gadabout, and was thought by + many people to leave home quite as much as he ought to do. As for my + grandfather, old age coming on, he seldom left home now, unless it were to + pay stated visits to certain old brother campaigners who lived within + moderate distances, and with whom he invariably passed weeks each summer. + </p> + <p> + The visit I have mentioned occurred some time after Easter, a season of + the year that many of our country families were in the habit of passing in + town, to have the benefit of the daily services of Old Trinity, as the + Hebrews resorted to Jerusalem to keep the feast of the passover. My mother + did not go to town this year, on account of my father's gout, and I was + sent to supply her place with my aunt Legge, who had been so long + accustomed to have one of the family with her at that season, that I was + substituted. Dirck had relatives of his own, with whom he staid, and thus + every thing was rendered smooth. In order to make a fair start, my friend + crossed the Hudson the week before, and, after taking breath at Satanstoe + for three days, we left the Neck for the capital, mounted on a pair of as + good roadsters as were to be found in the county: and that is saying a + good deal; for the Morrises, and de Lanceys, and Van Cortlandts all kept + racers, and sometimes gave us good sport, in the autumn, over the county + course. West Chester, to say no more than she deserved, was a county with + a spirited gentry, and one of which no colony need be ashamed. + </p> + <p> + My mother was a tender-hearted parent, and full of anxiety in behalf of an + only child. She knew that travelling always has more or less of hazard, + and was desirous we should be off betimes, in order to make certain of our + reaching town before the night set in. Highway robbers, Heaven be praised! + were then, and are still, unknown to the colonies; but there were other + dangers that gave my excellent parent much concern. All the bridges were + not considered safe; the roads were, and are yet, very circuitous, and it + was possible to lose one's way; while it was said persons had been known + to pass the night on Harlem common, an uninhabited waste that lies some + seven or eight miles on our side of the city. My mother's first care, + therefore, was to get Dirck and myself off early in the morning; in order + to do which she rose with the light, gave us our breakfasts immediately + afterwards, and thus enabled us to quit Satanstoe just as the sun had + burnished the eastern sky with its tints of flame-colour. + </p> + <p> + Dirck was in high good-humour that morning, and, to own the truth, Corny + did not feel the depression of spirits which, according to the laws of + propriety, possibly ought to have attended the first really free departure + of so youthful an adventurer from beneath the shadows of the paternal + roof. We went our way laughing and chatting like two girls just broke + loose from boarding-school. I had never known Dirck more communicative, + and I got certain new insights into his feelings, expectations and + prospects, as we rode along the colony's highway that morning, that + afterwards proved to be matters of much interest with us both. We had not + got a mile from the chimney-tops of Satanstoe, ere my friend broke forth + as follows:— + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you have heard, Corny, what the two old gentlemen have been at, + lately?” + </p> + <p> + “Your father and mine?—I have not heard a syllable of any thing + new.” + </p> + <p> + “They have been suing out, before the Governor and Council, a joint claim + to that tract of land they bought of the Mohawks, the last time they were + out together on service in the colony militia.” + </p> + <p> + I ought to mention, here, that though my predecessors had made but few + campaigns in the regular army, each had made several in the more humble + capacity of a militia officer. + </p> + <p> + “This is news to me, Dirck,” I answered. “Why should the old gentlemen + have been so sly about such a thing?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot tell you, lest they thought silence the best way to keep off the + yankees. You know, my father has a great dread of a yankee's getting a + finger into any of his bargains. He says the yankees are the locusts of + the west.” + </p> + <p> + “But, how came you to know any thing about it, Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + “I am no yankee, Corny.” + </p> + <p> + “And your father told <i>you</i> on the strength of this recommendation?” + </p> + <p> + “He told me, as he tells me most things that he thinks it best I should + know. We smoke together, and then we talk together.” + </p> + <p> + “I would learn to smoke too, if I thought I should get any useful + information by so doing.” + </p> + <p> + “Dere is much to be l'arnt from ter pipe!” said Dirck, dropping into a + slightly Dutch accent, as frequently happened with him, when his mind took + a secret direction towards Holland, though in general he spoke English + quite as well as I did myself, and vastly better than that miracle of + taste, and learning, and virtue, and piety, Mr. Jason Newcome, A.B., of + Yale, and prospective president of that, or some other institution. + </p> + <p> + “So it would seem, if your father is telling you secrets all the time you + are smoking together. But where is this land, Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + “It is in the Mohawk country—or, rather, it is in the country near + the Hampshire Grants, and at no great distance from the Mohawk country.” + </p> + <p> + “And how much may there be of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Forty thousand acres; and some of it of good, rich flats, they say; such + as a Dutchman loves.” + </p> + <p> + “And your father and mine have purchased all this land in company, you say—share + and share alike, as the lawyers call it.” + </p> + <p> + “Just so.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray how much did they pay for so large a tract of land?” + </p> + <p> + Dirck took time to answer this question. He first drew from his breast a + pocket-book, which he opened as well as he could under the motion of his + roadster, for neither of us abated his speed, it being indispensable to + reach town before dark. My friend succeeded at length in putting his hand + on the paper he wanted, which he gave to me. + </p> + <p> + “There,” he said; “that is a list of the articles paid to the Indians, + which I have copied, and then there have been several hundred pounds of + fees paid to the Governor and his officers.” + </p> + <p> + I read from the list, as follows; the words coming out by jerks, as the + trotting of my horse permitted. “Fifty blankets, each with yellow strings + and yellow trimmings; ten iron pots, four gallons each; forty pounds of + gunpowder; seven muskets; twelve pounds of small beads; ten strings of + wampum; fifty gallons of rum, pure Jamaica, and of high proof; a score of + jews-harps, and three dozen first quality English-made tomahawks.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Dirck,” I cried, as soon as through reading, “this is no great + matter to give for forty thousand acres of land, in the colony of New + York. I dare say a hundred pounds currency ($250) would buy every thing + here, even to the rum and the first quality of English-made tomahawks.” + </p> + <p> + “Ninety-six pounds, thirteen shillings, seven pence 't'ree fart'in's' was + the footing of the whole bill,” answered Dirck deliberately, preparing to + light his pipe; for he could smoke very conveniently while trotting no + faster than at the rate of six miles the hour. + </p> + <p> + “I do not find that dear for forty thousand acres; I suppose the muskets, + and rum, and other things were manufactured expressly for the Indian + trade.” + </p> + <p> + “Not they, Corny: you know how it is with the old gentlemen;—they + are as honest as the day.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better for them, and so much the better for us! But what is + to be done with this land, now they own it?” + </p> + <p> + Dirck did not answer, until we had trotted twenty rods; for by this time + the pipe was at work, and the moment that smoke was seen he kept his eye + on it, until he saw a bright light in front of his nose. + </p> + <p> + “The first thing will be to find it, Corny. When a patent is signed and + delivered, then you must send forth some proper person to find the land it + covers. I have heard of a gentleman who got a grant of ten thousand acres, + five years since; and though he has had a hunt for it every summer since, + he has not been able to find it yet. To be sure, ten thousand acres is a + small object to look for, in the woods.” + </p> + <p> + “And our fathers intend to find this land as soon as the season opens?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so fast, Corny; not so fast! That was the scheme of your father's + Welsh blood, but mine takes matters more deliberately. Let us wait until + next year, he said, and then we can send the boys. By that time, too, the + war will take some sort of a shape, and we shall know better how to care + for the children. The subject has been fairly talked over between the two + patentees, and we are to go early <i>next</i> spring, not this.” + </p> + <p> + The idea of land-hunting was not in the least disagreeable to me; nor was + it unpleasant to think that I stood in reversion, or as heir, to twenty + thousand acres of land, in addition to those of Satanstoe. Dirck and I + talked the matter over, as we trotted on, until both of us began to regret + that the expedition was so far in perspective. + </p> + <p> + The war to which Dirck alluded, had broken out a few months before our + visit to town: a Mr. Washington, of Virginia—the same who has since + become so celebrated as the Col Washington of Braddock's defeat, and other + events at the south—having been captured, with a party of his men, + in a small work thrown up in the neighbourhood of the French, somewhere on + the tributaries of the Ohio; a river that is known to run into the + Mississippi, a vast distance to the west. I knew very little then, nor do + I know much now of these remote regions, beyond the fact that there are + such places, and that they are sometimes visited by detachments, + war-parties, hunters, and other adventurers from the colonies. To me, it + seems scarce worth fighting about such distant and wild territory; for + ages and ages must elapse before it can be of any service for the purposes + of civilization. Both Dirck and myself regretted that the summer would be + likely to go by without our seeing the enemy; for we came of families that + were commonly employed on such, occasions. We thought both our fathers + might be out; though even that was a point that still remained under + discussion. + </p> + <p> + We dined and baited at Kingsbridge, intending to sup in town. While the + dinner was cooking, Dirck and I walked out on the heights that overlook + the Hudson; for I knew less of this noble river than I wished to know of + it. We conversed as we walked; and my companion, who knew the river much + better than myself, having many occasions to pass up and down it, between + the village of Haverstraw and town, in his frequent visits to his + relatives below, gave me some useful information. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Corny,” said Dirck, after betraying a good deal of desire to + obtain a view of some object in the distance, along the river-side; “Look + here, Corny, do you see yonder house, in the little bay below us, with the + lawn that extends down to the water; and that noble orchard behind it?” + </p> + <p> + I saw the object to which Dirck alluded. It was a house that stood near + the river, but sheltered and secluded, with the lawn and orchard as + described; though at the distance of some two or three miles all the + beauties of the spot could not be discovered, and many of them had to be + received on the faith of my companion's admiration. Still I saw very + plainly, all the principal objects named; and, among others, the house, + the orchard, and the lawn. The building was of stone—as is common + with most of the better sort of houses in the country—was long, + irregular, and had that air of solid comfort about it, which it is usual + to see in buildings of that description. The walls were not whitewashed, + according to the lively tastes of our Dutch fellow-colonists, who appear + to expend all their vivacity in the pipe and the brush, but were left in + their native grey; a circumstance that rendered the form and dimensions of + the structure a little less distinct, at a first glance, than they might + otherwise have proved. As I gazed at the spot, however, I began to fancy + it a charm, to find the picture thus sobered down; and found a pleasure in + drawing the different angles, and walls, and chimneys, and roofs, from + this back-ground, by means of the organ of sight. On the whole, I thought + the little sequestered bay, the wooded and rocky shores, the small but + well distributed lawn, the orchard, with all the other similar + accessories, formed together one of the prettiest places of the sort I had + ever seen. Thinking so, I was not slow in saying as much to my companion. + I was thought to have some taste in these matters, and had been consulted + on the subject of laying out grounds by one or two neighbours in the + county. + </p> + <p> + “Whose house is it, Dirck?” I enquired; “and how came you to know anything + about it?” + </p> + <p> + “That is Lilacsbush,” answered my friend; “and it belongs to my mother's + cousin, Herman Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + I had heard of Herman, or, as it is pronounced, Harmar Mordaunt. He was a + man of considerable note in the colony, having been the son of a Major + Mordaunt, of the British army, who had married the heiress of a wealthy + Dutch merchant, whence the name of Herman; which had descended to the son + along with the money. The Dutch were so fond of their own blood, that they + never failed to give this Mr. Mordaunt his Christian name; and he was + usually known in the colony as Herman Mordaunt. Further than this, I knew + little of the gentleman, unless it might be that he was reputed rich, and + was admitted to be in the best society, though not actually belonging to + the territorial or political aristocracy of the colony. + </p> + <p> + “As Herman Mordaunt is your mother's cousin, I suppose, Dirck,” I resumed, + “that you have been at Lilacsbush, and ascertained whether the inside of + the house is as pleasant and respectable as the outside.” + </p> + <p> + “Often, Corny; while Madam Mordaunt lived, my mother and I used to go + there every summer. The poor lady is now dead, but I go there still.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you not ride on as far as Lilacsbush, and levy a dinner on your + relations? I should think Herman Mordaunt would feel hurt, were he to + learn that an acquaintance, or a relation, had put up at an inn, within a + couple of miles of his own house. I dare say he knows both Major and Capt. + Littlepage, and I protest I shall feel it necessary to send him a note of + apology for not calling. These things ought not to be done, Dirck, among + persons of a certain stamp, and who are supposed to know what is proper.” + </p> + <p> + “This would be all right enough, Corny, had Herman Mordaunt, or his + daughter, been at Lilacsbush; but they live in Crown Street, in town, in + winter, and never come out here until after the Pinkster holidays, let <i>them</i> + come when they may.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he is as great a man as that, is he?—a town and country house; + after all, I do not know whether it would do to be quite so free with one + of his standing, as to go to dine with him without sending notice.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, Corny. Who hesitates about stopping at a gentleman's door, when + he is travelling? Herman Mordaunt would have given us a hearty welcome, + and I should have gone on to Lilacsbush, did I not know that the family is + certain to be in town at this season. Easter came early this year, and + to-morrow will be the first day of the Pinkster holidays. As soon as they + are over, Herman Mordaunt and Anneke will be out here to enjoy their + lilacs and roses.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ho! there is an Anneke, as well as the old gentleman. Pray, how old + may Miss Anneke be, Master Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + As this question was asked, I turned to look my friend in the face, and I + found that his handsome, smooth, fair Dutch lineaments were covered with a + glow of red, that it was not usual to see extended so far from his ruddy + cheeks. Dirck was too much of a man, however, to turn away, or to try to + hide blushes so ingenuous; but he answered stoutly— + </p> + <p> + “My cousin, Anneke Mordaunt, is just turned of seventeen; and, I'll tell + you what, Corny—” + </p> + <p> + “Well—I am listening, with both ears, to hear your <i>what</i>—Out + with it, man; both ears are open.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Anneke (On-na-<i>kay</i>), is one of the very prettiest girls in the + colony!—What is more, she is as sweet and goot”—Dirck grew + Dutch, as he grew animated—“as she is pretty.” + </p> + <p> + I was quite astounded at the energy and feeling with which this was said. + Dirck was such a matter-of-fact fellow, that I had never dreamed he could + be sensible to the passion of love; nor had I ever paused to analyze the + nature of our own friendship. We liked each other, in the first place, + most probably, from habit; then, we were of characters so essentially + different, that our attachment was influenced by that species of + excitement which is the child of opposition. As we grew older, Dirck's + good qualities began to command my respect, and reason entered more into + my affection for him. I was well convinced that my companion could, and + would, prove to be a warm friend; but the possibility of his ever becoming + a lover, had not before crossed my mind. Even then, the impression made + was not very deep or lasting, though I well remember the sort of + admiration and wonder with which I gazed at his flushed cheek, animated + eye, and improved mien. For the moment, Dirck really had a commanding and + animated air. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Anneke is one of the prettiest girls in the colony!” my friend had + exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “And your cousin?” + </p> + <p> + “My second cousin.—Her mother's father and my mother's mother were + brother and sister.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, I shall hope to have the honour of being introduced, one of + these days, to Miss Anneke Mordaunt, who is just turned of seventeen, and + is one of the prettiest girls in the colony, and is as good as she is + pretty.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you to see her, Corny, and that before we go home,” Dirck replied, + all his philosophy, or phlegm, whichever the philosophy of other people + may term it, returning; “come; let us go back to the inn; our dinner will + be getting cold.” + </p> + <p> + I mused on my friend's unusual manner, as we walked back towards the inn; + but it was soon forgotten, in the satisfaction produced by eating a good, + substantial meal of broiled ham, with hot potatoes, boiled eggs, a + beefsteak, done to a turn, with the accessions of pickles, cold-slaw, + apple-pie, and cider. This is a common New York tavern dinner, for the + wayfarer; and, I must say, I have got to like it. Often have I enjoyed + such a repast, after a sharp forenoon's ride; ay, and enjoyed it more than + I have relished entertainments at which have figured turkies, oysters, + hams, hashes, and other dishes, that have higher reputations. Even + turtle-soup, for which we are somewhat famous in New York, has failed to + give me the same delight. + </p> + <p> + Dirck, to do him justice, ate heartily; for it is not an easy matter to + take away his appetite. As usual, I did most of the talking; and that was + with our landlady, who, hearing I was a son of her much-esteemed and + constant customer, Major Littlepage, presented herself with the dessert + and cheese, and did me the honour to commence a discourse. Her name was + Light; and light was she certain to cast on everything she discussed; that + is to say, innkeeper's light; which partakes somewhat of the darkness that + is so apt to overshadow no small portion of the minds of her many + customers. + </p> + <p> + “Pray, Mrs. Light,” I asked, when there was an opening, which was not + until the good woman had exhausted her breath in honour of the + Littlepages, “do you happen to know anything of a family, hereabouts, of + the name of Mordaunt?” + </p> + <p> + “Do I <i>happen</i> to know, sir!—Why, Mr. Littlepage, you might + almost as well have asked me, if I had ever heard of a Van Cortlandt, or a + Philipse, or a Morris, or any other of the gentry hereabouts. Mr. Mordaunt + has a country-place, and a very pretty one it is, within two miles and a + half of us; and he and Madame Mordaunt never passed our door, when they + went into the country to see Madame Van Cortlandt, without stopping to say + a word, and leave a shilling. The poor lady is dead; but there is a young + image of her virtues, that is coming a'ter her, that will be likely to do + some damage in the colony. She is modesty itself, sir; so I thought it + could do her no harm, the last time she was here, just to tell her, she + ought to be locked up, for the thefts she was likely to commit, if not for + them she had committed already. She blushed, sir, and looked for all the + world like the shell of the most delicate boiled lobster you ever laid + eyes on. She is truly a charming young lady!” + </p> + <p> + “Thefts of hearts, you mean of course, my good Mrs. Light?” + </p> + <p> + “Of nothing else, sir; young ladies are apt to steal hearts, you know. My + word for it, Miss Anneke will turn out a great robber, after her own + fashion, you know, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And whose hearts is she likely to run away with, pray? I should be + pleased to hear the names of some of the sufferers.” + </p> + <p> + “Lord, sir!—she is too young to have done much <i>yet</i>, but wait + a twelvemonth, and I'll answer the question.” + </p> + <p> + I could see all this time that Dirck was uneasy, and had some amusement in + watching the workings of his countenance. My malicious intentions, + however, were suddenly interrupted. As if to prevent further discourse, + and, at the same time, further <i>espionage</i>, my young friend rose from + table, ordering the horses and the bill. + </p> + <p> + During the ride to town, no more was said of Lilacsbush, Herman Mordaunt, + or his daughter Anneke. Dirck was silent, but this was his habit after + dinner, and I was kept a good deal on the alert in order to find the road + which crossed the common, it being our desire to go in that direction. It + is true, we might have gone into town by the way of Bloomingdale, + Greenwich, the meadows and the Collect, and so down past the common upon + the head of Broadway; but my mother had particularly desired we would fall + into the Bowery Lane, passing the seats that are to be found in that + quarter, and getting into Queen Street as soon as possible. By taking this + course she thought we should be less likely to miss our way within the + town itself, which is certainly full of narrow and intricate passages. My + uncle Legge had removed into Duke Street, in the vicinity of Hanover + Square; and Queen Street, I well knew, would lead us directly to his door. + Queen Street, indeed, is the great artery of New York, through which most + of its blood circulates. + </p> + <p> + It was drawing towards night when we trotted up to the stable, where we + left our horses, and obtaining a black to shoulder our portmanteaus, we + began to thread the mazes of the capital on foot. New York was certainly, + even in 1757, a wonderful place for commerce! Vessels began to be seen + some distance east of Fly Market, and there could not have been fewer than + twenty ships, brigs, and schooners, lying in the East river, as we walked + down Queen Street. Of course I include all descriptions of vessels that go + to sea, in this estimate. At the present moment, it is probable twice that + number would be seen. There Dirck and I stopped more than once, + involuntarily, to gaze at the exhibitions of wealth and trade that offered + themselves as we went deeper into the town. My mother had particularly + cautioned me against falling into this evidence of country habits, and I + felt much ashamed at each occurrence of the weakness; but I found it + irresistible. At length my friend and I parted; he to go to the residence + of his aunt, while I proceeded to that of mine. Before separating, however + we agreed to meet next morning in the fields at the head of Broadway, on + the common, which, as it was understood, was to be the scene of the + Pinkster sports. + </p> + <p> + My reception in Duke Street was cordial, both on the part of my uncle and + on the part of my aunt; the first being a good-hearted person, though a + little too apt to run into extravagance on the subject of the rights of + the rabble. I was pleased with the welcome I received, enjoyed an + excellent hot supper, to which we sat down at half-past eight, my aunt + being fond of town hours, both dining and supping a little later than my + mother, as being more fashionable and genteel. <a href="#linknote-9" + name="linknoteref-9" id="linknoteref-9"><small>9</small></a> As I was + compelled to confess fatigue, after so long a ride, as soon as we quitted + the table I retired to my own room. + </p> + <p> + The next day was the first of the three that are devoted to Pinkster, the + great Saturnalia of the New York blacks. Although this festival is always + kept with more vivacity at Albany than in York, it is far from being + neglected, even now, in the latter place. I had told my aunt, before I + left her, I should not wait for breakfast, but should be up with the sun, + and off in quest of Dirck, in order that we might enjoy a stroll along the + wharves before it was time to repair to the common, where the fun was to + be seen. Accordingly I got out of the house betimes, though it was an hour + later than I had intended; for I heard the rattling of cups in the little + parlour, the sign that the table was undergoing the usual process of + arrangement for breakfast. It then occurred to me that most, if not all of + the servants, seven in number, would be permitted to enjoy the holiday; + and that it might be well if I took all my meals, that day, in the fields. + Running back to the room, I communicated this intention to Juno, the girl + I found doing Pompey's work, and left the house on a jump. There was no + great occasion for starving, I thought, in a town as large and as full of + eatables as New York; and the result fully justified this reasonable + opinion. + </p> + <p> + Just as I got into Hanover Square, I saw a grey-headed negro, who was for + turning a penny before he engaged in the amusements of the day, carrying + two pails that were scoured to the neatness of Dutch fastidiousness, and + which were suspended from the yoke he had across his neck and shoulders. + He cried “White wine—white wine!” in a clear sonorous voice; and I + was at his side in a moment. White wine was, and is still, my delight of a + morning; and I bought a delicious draught of the purest and best of a + Communipaw vintage, eating a cake at the same time. Thus refreshed, I + proceeded into the square, the beauty of which had struck my fancy as I + walked through it the previous evening. To my surprise, whom should I find + in the very centre of Queen Street, gaping about him with a most + indomitable Connecticut air, but Jason Newcome! A brief explanation let me + into the secret of his presence. His boys had all gone home to enjoy the + Pinkster holiday, with the black servants of their respective families; + and Jason had seized the opportunity to pay his first visit to the great + capital of the colony. He was on his travels, like myself. + </p> + <p> + “And what has brought you down here?” I demanded, the pedagogue having + already informed me that he had put up at a tavern in the suburbs, where + horse-keeping and lodgings were “reasonable.” “The Pinkster fields are up + near the head of Broadway, on the common.” + </p> + <p> + “So I hear,” answered Jason; “but I want to see a ship and all the sights + this way, in the first place. It will be time enough for Pinkster, two or + three hours hence, if a Christian ought even to look at such vanities. Can + you tell me where I am to find Hanover Square, Corny?” + </p> + <p> + “You are in it now, Mr. Newcome; and to my fancy, a very noble area it + is!” + </p> + <p> + “<i>This</i> Hanover Square!” repeated Jason. “Why, its shape is not that + of a square at all; it is nearer a <i>triangle</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “What of that, sir? By a square in a town, one does not necessarily + understand an area with four equal sides and as many right angles, but an + open space that is left for air and beauty. There are air and beauty + enough to satisfy any reasonable man. A square may be a parallelogram, or + a triangle, or any other shape one pleases.” + </p> + <p> + “This, then, is Hanover Square!—a New York square, or a Nassau Hall + square, Corny; but not a Yale College square, take my word for it. It is + so small, moreover!” + </p> + <p> + “Small!—the width of the street at the widest end must be near a + hundred feet; I grant you it is not half that at the other end, but that + is owing to the proximity of the houses.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, it is all owing to the proximity of the houses, as you call it. Now, + according to my notion, Hanover Square, of which a body hears so much talk + in the country, ought to have had fifty or sixty acres in it, and statues + of the whole House of Brunswick, besides. Why is that nest of houses left + in the middle of your square?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not, sir. The square ceases when it reaches <i>them.</i> They are + too valuable to be torn down, although there has been some talk of it. My + uncle Legge told me, last evening, that those houses have been valued as + high as twelve thousand dollars; and some persons put them as high as six + thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + This reconciled Jason to the houses; for he never failed to defer to + money, come in what shape it would. It was the only source of human + distinction that he could clearly comprehend, though he had some faint + impressions touching the dignity of the crown, and the respect due to its + representatives. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” said Jason, in an under tone, and taking me by the arm to lead me + aside, though no one was near, like a man who has a great secret to ask, + or to communicate, “what was that I saw you taking for your bitters, a + little while ago?” + </p> + <p> + “Bitters! I do not understand you, Jason. Nothing bitter have I tasted + to-day; nor can I say I have any great wish to put anything bitter into my + mouth.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the draught you got from the nigger who is now coming back across + the square, as you call it, and which you seemed to enj'y particularly. I + am dry, myself, and should wonderfully like a drink.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that fellow sells 'white wine,' and you will find it delicious. If + you want your 'bitters,' as you call them, you cannot do better than stop + him, and give him a penny.” + </p> + <p> + “Will he let it go so desperate cheap as that?” demanded Jason, his eyes + twinkling with a sort of “bitters” expectation. + </p> + <p> + “That is the stated price. Stop him boldly; there is no occasion for all + this Connecticut modesty. Here, uncle, this gentleman wishes a cup of your + white wine.” + </p> + <p> + Jason turned away in alarm, to see who was looking on; and, when the cup + was put into his hand, he shut his eyes, determined to gulp its contents + at a swallow, in the most approved “bitters” style. About half the liquor + went down his throat, the rest being squirted back in a small white + stream. + </p> + <p> + “Buttermilk, by Jingo!” exclaimed the disappointed pedagogue, who expected + some delicious combination of spices with rum. St. Jingo was the only + saint, and a “darnation” or “darn you,” were the only oaths his puritan + education ever permitted him to use. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-9" id="linknote-9"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 9 (<a href="#linknoteref-9">return</a>)<br /> [ The dinner of the last half + century is, in one sense, but a substitute for the <i>petits soupers</i> + of the century or two that preceded. It is so entirely rational and + natural, that the cultivated and refined should meet for the purposes of + social enjoyment after the business of the day has terminated, that the + supper has only given place to the same meal under another name, and at + hours little varying from those of the past. The Parisian dines at + half-past six, remaining at table until eight. The Englishman, later in + all his hours, and more ponderous in all his habits, sits down to table + about the time the Frenchman gets up; quitting it between nine and ten. + The Italian pays a tribute to his climate, and has his early dinner and + light supper, both usually alone, the habits of the country carrying him + to the opera and the <i>conversazione</i> for social communion. But what + is the American? A jumble of the same senseless contradictions in his + social habits, as he is fast getting to be in his political creeds and + political practices; a being that is <i>in transitu</i>, pressed by + circumstances on the one side, and by the habit of imitation on the other; + unwilling, almost unable, to think and act for himself. The only American + who is temporarily independent in such things, is the unfledged + provincial, fresh from his village conceit and village practices, who, + until corrected by communion with the world, fancies the south-east corner + of the north-west parish, in the town of Hebron, in the county of Jericho, + and the State of Connecticut, to be the only portion of this globe that is + perfection. If he should happen to keep a school, or conduct a newspaper, + the community becomes, in a small degree, the participant of his rare + advantages and vast experience!—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Here's your fine clams! + As white as snow! + On Rockaway these clams do grow.” + + <i>New York Cries</i>. +</pre> + <p> + It was some time before Jason's offended dignity and disappointment would + permit him to smile at the mistake; and we had walked some distance + towards Old Slip, where I was to meet Dirck, before the pedagogue even + opened his lips. Then, the only allusion he made to the white wine, was to + call it “a plaguy Dutch cheat;” for Jason had implicitly relied on having + that peculiar beverage of his caste, known as “bitters.” What he meant by + a <i>Dutch</i> cheat, I do not know; unless he thought the buttermilk was + particularly Dutch, and <i>this</i> buttermilk an imposition. + </p> + <p> + Dirck was waiting for me at the Old Slip; and, on inquiry, I found he had + enjoyed his draught of white wine as well as myself, and was ready for + immediate service. We proceeded along the wharves in a body, admiring the + different vessels that lined them. About nine o'clock, all three of us + passed up Wall Street, on the stoops of which, no small portion of its + tenants were already seated, enjoying the sight of the negroes, as, with + happy “shining” faces they left the different dwellings, to hasten to the + Pinkster field. Our passage through the street attracted a good deal of + attention; for, being all three strangers, it was not to be supposed we + could be thus seen in a body, without exciting a remark. Such a thing + could hardly have been expected in London itself. + </p> + <p> + After showing Jason the City Hall, Trinity Church, and the City Tavern, we + went out of town, taking the direction of a large common that the King's + officers had long used for a parade-ground, and which has since been + called the Park, though it would be difficult to say why, since it is + barely a paddock in size, and certainly has never been used to keep any + animals wilder than the boys of the town. A park, I suppose, it will one + day become, though it has little at present that comports with my ideas of + such a thing. On this common, then, was the Pinkster ground, which was now + quite full of people, as well as of animation. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing new in a Pinkster frolic, either to Dirck, or to myself; + though Jason gazed at the whole procedure with wonder. He was born within + seventy miles of that very spot, but had not the smallest notion before, + of such a holiday as Pinkster. There are few blacks in Connecticut, I + believe; and those that are there, are so ground down in the Puritan mill, + that they are neither fish, flesh, nor red-herring, as we say of a + nondescript. No man ever heard of a festival in New England, that had not + some immediate connection with the saints, or with politics. + </p> + <p> + Jason was at first confounded with the noises, dances, music, and games + that were going on. By this time, nine-tenths of the blacks of the city, + and of the whole country within thirty or forty miles, indeed, were + collected in thousands in those fields, beating banjoes, singing African + songs, drinking, and worst of all, laughing in a way that seemed to set + their very hearts rattling within their ribs. Everything wore the aspect + of good-humour, though it was good-humour in its broadest and coarsest + forms. Every sort of common game was in requisition, while drinking was + far from being neglected. Still, not a man was drunk. A drunken negro, + indeed, is by no means a common thing. The features that distinguish a + Pinkster frolic from the usual scenes at fairs, and other merry-makings, + however, were of African origin. It is true, there are not now, nor were + there then, many blacks among us of African birth; but the traditions and + usages of their original country were so far preserved as to produce a + marked difference between this festival, and one of European origin. Among + other things, some were making music, by beating on skins drawn over the + ends of hollow logs, while others were dancing to it, in a manner to show + that they felt infinite delight. This, in particular, was said to be a + usage of their African progenitors. + </p> + <p> + Hundreds of whites were walking through the fields, amused spectators. + Among these last were a great many children of the better class, who had + come to look at the enjoyment of those who attended them, in their own + ordinary amusements. Many a sable nurse did I see that day, chaperoning + her young master, a young mistress, or both together, through the various + groups; demanding of all, and receiving from all, the respect that one of + these classes was accustomed to pay to the other. + </p> + <p> + A great many young ladies between the ages of fifteen and twenty were also + in the field, either escorted by male companions, or, what was equally as + certain of producing deference, under the dare of old female nurses, who + belonged to the race that kept the festival. We had been in the field + ourselves two hours, and even Jason was beginning to condescend to be + amused, when, unconsciously, I got separated from my companions, and was + wandering through the groups by myself, as I came on a party of young + girls, who were under the care of two or three wrinkled and grey-headed + negresses, so respectably attired, as to show at once they were + confidential servants in some of the better families. As for the young + ladies themselves, most were still of the age of school girls; though + there were some of that equivocal age, when the bud is just breaking into + the opening flower, and one or two that were even a little older; young + women in forms and deportment, though scarcely so in years. One of a party + of two of the last, appeared to me to possess all the grace of young + womanhood, rendered radiant by the ingenuous laugh, the light-hearted + playfulness, and the virgin innocence of sweet seventeen. She was simply, + but very prettily dressed, and everything about her attire, air, carriage + and manner, denoted a young lady of the better class, who was just old + enough to feel all the proprieties of her situation, while she was still + sufficiently youthful to enjoy all the fun. As she came near me, it seemed + as if I knew her; but it was not until I heard her sweet, mirthful voice, + that I recollected the pretty little thing in whose behalf I had taken a + round with the butcher's boy, on the Bowery road, near six years before. + As her party came quite near the spot where I stood, what was only + conjecture at first, was reduced to a certainty. + </p> + <p> + In the surprise of the moment, happening to catch the eye of the young + creature, I was emboldened to make her a low bow. At first she smiled, + like one who fancies she recognises an acquaintance; then her face became + scarlet, and she returned my bow with a very lady-like, but, at the same + time, a very distant curtsey; upon which, bending her blue eyes to the + ground, she turned away, seemingly to speak to her companion. After this, + I could not advance to speak, though I was strongly in hopes the old black + nurse who was with her would recognise me, for she had manifested much + concern about me on the occasion of the quarrel with the young butcher. + This did not occur; and old Katrinke, as I heard the negress called, + jabbered away, explaining the meaning of the different ceremonies of her + race, to a cluster of very interested listeners, without paying any + attention to me. The tongues of the pretty little things went, as girls' + tongues will go, though my unknown fair one maintained all the reserve and + quiet of manner that comported with her young womanhood, and apparent + condition in life. + </p> + <p> + “Dere, Miss Anneke!” exclaimed Katrinke, suddenly; “dere come a genttleum + dat will bring a pleasure, I know.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Anneke,” I</i> repeated, mentally, and “gentleman that will cause + pleasure by his appearance.” “Can it be Dirck?” I thought. Sure enough, + Dirck it proved to be, who advanced rapidly to the group, making a general + salute, and finishing by shaking my beautiful young stranger's hands, and + addressing her by the name of “cousin Anneke.” This, then, was Annie + Mordaunt, as the young lady was commonly called in the English circles, + the only child and heiress of Herman Mordaunt, of Crown Street and of + Lilacsbush. Well, Dirck has more taste than I had ever given him credit + for! Just as this thought glanced through my mind, my figure caught my + friend's eye, and, with a look of pride and exultation, he signed to me to + draw nearer, though I had managed to get pretty near as it was, already. + </p> + <p> + “Cousin Anneke,” said Dirck, who never used circumlocution, when direct + means were at all available, “this is Corny Littlepage, of whom you have + heard me speak so often, and for whom I ask one of your best curtsies and + sweetest smiles.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Mordaunt was kind enough to comply literally, both curtsying and + smiling precisely as she had been desired to do, though I could see she + was also slightly disposed to laugh. I was still making my bow, and + mumbling some unintelligible compliment, when Katrinke gave a little + exclamation, and using the freedom of an old and confidential servant, she + eagerly pulled the sleeve of her young mistress, and hurriedly whispered + something in her ear. Anneke coloured, turned quickly towards me, bent her + eyes more boldly and steadily on my face—and then it was that I + fancied the sweetest smile which mortal had ever received, or that with + which I had just before been received, was much surpassed. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Littlepage, I believe, is not a total stranger, cousin Dirck,” she + said. “Katrinke remembers him, as a young gentleman who once did me an + important service, and now I think I can trace the resemblance myself! I + allude to the boy who insulted me on the Bowery Road, Mr. Littlepage, and + your handsome interference in my behalf.” + </p> + <p> + “Had there been twenty boys, Miss Mordaunt, an insult to <i>you</i> would + have been resented by any man of ordinary spirit.” + </p> + <p> + I do not know that any youth, who was suddenly put to his wits to be + polite, or sentimental, or feeling, could have done a great deal better + than <i>that</i>! So Anneke thought too, I fancy, for her colour + increased, rendering her ravishingly lovely, and she looked surprisingly + pleased. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” put in Dirck with energy,—“let twenty, or a hundred try it if + they please, Anneke, men or boys, and they'll find those that will protect + you.” + </p> + <p> + “You for one, of course, cousin Dirck,” rejoined the charming girl, + holding out her hand towards my friend, with a frankness I could have + dispensed with in her; “but, you will remember, Mr. Littlepage, or <i>Master</i> + Littlepage as he then was, was a stranger, and I had no such claim on <i>him</i>, + as I certainly have on you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Corny, it is odd you never said a word of this to me! when I was + showing him Lilacsbush, and talking of you and of your father, not a word + did he say on the subject.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not then know it was Miss Mordaunt I had been so fortunate as to + serve; but here is Mr. Newcome at your elbow, Follock, and dying to be + introduced, as he sees I have been.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke turned to smile and curtsey again to Jason, who made his bow in a + very school-master sort of a fashion, while I could see that the + circumstance I had not boasted of my exploit gave it new importance in the + sweet creature's eyes. As for Jason, he had no sooner got along with the + introduction,—the first, I fancy, he had ever gone regularly + through,—than, profiting by some questions Miss Mordaunt was asking + Dirck about his mother and the rest of the family, he came round to me, + drew me aside by a jerk of the sleeve, and gave me to understand he had + something for my private ear. + </p> + <p> + “I did not know before that you had ever kept school, Corny,” he half + whispered earnestly. + </p> + <p> + “How do you know it now, Mr. Newcome? since the thing never happened?” + </p> + <p> + “How comes it, then, that this young woman called you <i>Master</i> + Littlepage?” + </p> + <p> + “Bah! Jason, wait a year or two, and you will begin to get truer notions + of us New Yorkers.” + </p> + <p> + “But I heard her with my own ears—<i>Master</i> Littlepage; as plain + as words were ever called.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, Miss Mordaunt must be right, and I have forgotten the affair. + I must once have kept a woman's school, somewhere in my younger days, but + forgotten it.” + </p> + <p> + “Now this is nothing (nawthin', as expressed) but you? desperate York + pride, Corny; but I think all the better of you for it. Why, as it could + not have taken place after you went to college, you must have got the + start of even me! But, the Rev. Mr. Worden is enough to start a youth with + a large capital, if he be so minded. I admit he does understand the dead + languages. It is a pity he is so very dead in religious matters.” + </p> + <p> + “Well—well—I will tell you all about it another time, you + perceive, now, that Miss Mordaunt wishes to move on, and does not like to + quit us too abruptly. Let us follow.” + </p> + <p> + Jason complied, and for an hour or two we had the pleasure of accompanying + the young ladies, as they strolled among the booths and different groups + of that singular assembly. As has been said, most of the blacks had been + born in the colony, but there were some native Africans among them. New + York never had slaves on the system of the southern planters, or in gangs + of hundreds, to labour in the fields under overseers, and who lived apart + in cabins of their own; but, our system of slavery was strictly domestic, + the negro almost invariably living under the same roof with the master, + or, if his habitation was detached, as certainly sometimes happened, it + was still near at hand, leaving both races as parts of a common family. In + the country, the negroes never toiled in the field, but it was as ordinary + husbandmen; and, in the cases of those who laboured on their own property, + or as tenants of some extensive land-ford, the black did his work at his + master's side. Then all, or nearly all our household servants were, and + still are, blacks, leaving that department of domestic economy almost + exclusively in their hands, with the exception of those cases in which the + white females busied themselves also in such occupations, united to the + usual supervision of the mistresses. Among the Dutch, in particular, the + treatment of the negro was of the kindest character, a trusty field slave + often having quite as much to say on the subject of the tillage and the + crops, as the man who owned both the land he worked, and himself. + </p> + <p> + A party of native Africans kept us for half an hour. The scene seemed to + have revived their early associations, and they were carried away with + their own representation of semi-savage sports. The American-born blacks + gazed at this group with intense interest also, regarding them as so many + ambassadors from the land of their ancestors, to enlighten them in usages + and superstitious lore, that were more peculiarly suited to their race. + The last even endeavoured to imitate the acts of the first, and, though + the attempt was often ludicrous, it never failed on the score of intention + and gravity. Nothing was done in the way of caricature, but much in the + way of respect and affection. + </p> + <p> + Lest the habits of this generation should pass away and be forgotten, of + which I see some evidence, I will mention a usage that was quite common + among the Dutch, and which has passed in some measure, into the English + families that have formed connections with the children of Holland. Two of + these intermarriages had so far brought the Littlepages within the pale, + that the usage to which I allude was practised in my own case. The custom + was this: when a child of the family reached the age of six, or eight, a + young slave of the same age and sex, was given to him, or her, with some + little formality, and from that moment the fortunes of the two were + considered to be, within the limits of their respective pursuits and + positions, as those of man and wife. It is true, divorces do occur, but it + is only in cases of gross misconduct, and quite as often the misconduct is + on the side of the master, as on that of the slave. A drunkard may get in + debt, and be compelled to part with his blacks this one among the rest; + but this particular negro remains with him as long as anything remains. + Slaves that seriously misbehave, are usually sent to the islands, where + the toil on the sugar plantations proves a very sufficient punishment. + </p> + <p> + The day I was six, a boy was given to me, in the manner I have mentioned; + and he remained not only my property, but my factotum, to this moment. It + was Yaap, or Jacob, the negro to whom I have already had occasion to + allude. Anneke Mordaunt, whose grandmother was of a Dutch family, it will + be remembered, had with her there, in the Pinkster field, a negress of + just her own age, who was called Mari; not Mary, or Maria; but the last, + as it would be pronounced without the final a. This <i>Mari</i> was a + buxom, glistening, smooth-faced, laughing, red-lipped, pearl-toothed, + black-eyed hussy, that seemed born for fun; and who was often kept in + order by her more sedate and well-mannered young mistress with a good deal + of difficulty. My fellow was on the ground, somewhere, too; for I had + given him permission to come to town to keep Pinkster; and he was to leave + Satanstoe, in a sloop, within an hour after I left it myself. The wind had + been fair, and I made no question of his having arrived; though, as yet, I + had not seen him. + </p> + <p> + I could have accompanied Anneke, and her party, all day, through that + scene of unsophisticated mirth, and felt no want of interest. Her presence + immediately produced an impression; even the native Africans moderating + their manner, and lowering their yells, as it might be, the better to suit + her more refined tastes. No one, in our set, was too dignified to laugh, + but Jason. The pedagogue, it is true, often expressed his disgust at the + amusements and antics of the negroes, declaring they were unbecoming human + beings and otherwise manifesting that disposition to hypercriticism, which + is apt to distinguish one who is only a tyro in his own case. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state of things, when Ma<i>ri</i> came rushing up to her + young mistress, with distended eyes and uplifted hands, exclaiming, on a + key that necessarily made us all sharers in the communication— + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Miss Anneke!—What you t'ink, Miss Anneke! Could you ever s'pose + sich a t'ing, Miss Anneke!” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me at once, Mari, what it is you have seen, or heard; and leave off + these silly exclamations;” said the gentle mistress, with a colour that + proved she was unused to her own girl's manner. + </p> + <p> + “Who <i>could</i> t'ink it, Miss Anneke! Dese, here, werry niggers have + sent all'e way to deir own country, and have had a lion cotched for + Pinkster!” + </p> + <p> + This was news, indeed, if true. Not one of us all had ever seen a lion; + wild animals, then, being exceedingly scarce in the colonies, with the + exception of those that were taken in our own woods. I had seen several of + the small brown bears, and many a wolf, and one stuffed panther, in my + time; but never supposed it within the range of possibilities, that I + could be brought so near a living lion. Inquiry showed, nevertheless, that + Mari was right, with the exception of the animal's having been expressly + caught for the occasion. It was the beast of a showman, who was also the + proprietor of a very active and amusing monkey. The price of admission was + a quarter of a dollar, for adult whites; children and negroes going in for + half-price. These preliminaries understood, it was at once settled that + all who could muster enough of money and courage, should go in a body, and + gaze on the king of beasts. I say, of courage; for it required a good deal + for a female novice to go near a living lion. + </p> + <p> + The lion was kept in a cage, of course, which was placed in a temporary + building of boards, that had been erected for the Pinkster field. As we + drew near the door, I saw that the cheeks of several of the pretty young + creatures who belonged to the party of Anneke, began to turn pale; a sign + of weakness that, singular as it may appear, very sensibly extended itself + to most of their attendant negresses. Mari did not flinch, however; and, + when it came to the trial, of that sex, she and her mistress were the only + two who held out in the original resolution of entering. Some time was + thrown away in endeavouring to persuade two or three of her older + companions to go in with her; but, finding it useless, with a faint smile, + Miss Mordaunt calmly said— + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, Mari and myself must compose the female portion of the + party. I have never seen a lion, and would not, by any means, miss this + opportunity. We shall find my friends waiting for such portions of us as + shall not be eaten, on our return.” + </p> + <p> + We were now near the door, where stood the man who received the money, and + gave the tickets. It happened that Dirck had been stopped by a gentleman + of his acquaintance, who had just left the building, and who was + laughingly relating some incident that had occurred within. I stood on one + side of Anneke, Jason on the other, while Mari was close in the rear. + </p> + <p> + “A quarter for each gentleman and the lady,” said the door-keeper, “and a + shilling for the wench.” + </p> + <p> + On this hint, Jason, to my great surprise, (for usually he was very + backward on such occasions,) drew out a purse, and emptying some silver + into his hand, he said with a flourish— + </p> + <p> + “Permit me, Miss—it is an honour I covet; a quarter for yourself, + and a shilling for Mari.” + </p> + <p> + I saw Anneke colour, and her eye turn hastily towards Dirck. Before I had + time to say anything, or to do anything in fact, she answered steadily— + </p> + <p> + “Give yourself no trouble, Mr. Newcome; Mr. Littlepage will do me the + favour to obtain tickets for me.” + </p> + <p> + Jason had the money in his fingers, and I passed him and bought the + tickets, while he was protesting— + </p> + <p> + “It gave him pleasure—he was proud of the occasion—another + time her brother could do the same for his sisters and he had six,” and + other matters of the sort. + </p> + <p> + I simply placed the tickets in Anneke's hand, who received them with an + expression of thanks, and we all passed; Dirck inquiring of his cousin, as + he came up, if he should get her tickets. I mention this little incident + as showing the tact of woman, and will relate all that pertains to it, + before I proceed to other things. Anneke said nothing on the subject of + her tickets until we had left the booth, when she approached me, and with + that grace and simplicity which a well-bred woman knows how to use on such + an occasion, and quietly observed— + </p> + <p> + “I am under obligations to you, Mr. Littlepage, for having paid for my + tickets;—they cost three shillings, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + I bowed, and had the pleasure of almost touching Miss Mordaunt's beautiful + little hand, as she gave me the money. At this instant, a jerk at my elbow + came near causing me to drop the silver. It was Jason, who had taken this + liberty, and who now led me aside with a earnestness of manner it was not + usual for him to exhibit. I saw by the portentous look of the pedagogue's + countenance, and his swelling manner, that something extraordinary was on + his mind, and waited with some little curiosity to learn what it might be. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what in human natur', Corny, do you mean?” he cried, almost angrily. + “Did ever mortal man hear of a gentleman's making a lady pay for a treat! + Do you know you have made Miss Anneke pay for a treat!” + </p> + <p> + “A treat, Mr. Newcome!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, a treat, Mr. Corny Littlepage! How often do you think young ladies + will accompany you to shows, and balls, and other sights, if you make <i>them + pay</i>!” + </p> + <p> + Then a laugh of derision added emphasis to Jason's words. + </p> + <p> + “Pay!—could I presume to think Miss Mordaunt would suffer me to pay + money for her, or for her servant?” + </p> + <p> + “You almost make me think you a nat'ral! Young men <i>always</i> pay for + young women, and no questions asked. Did you not remark how smartly I + offered to pay for this Miss, and how well she took it, until you stepped + forward and cut me out;—I bore it, for it saved me three + nine-pences.” + </p> + <p> + “I observed how Miss Mordaunt shrunk from the familiarity of being called + Miss, and how unwilling she was to let you buy the tickets; and that I + suspect was solely because she saw you had some notion of what you call a + treat.” + </p> + <p> + I cannot enter into the philosophy of the thing, but certainly nothing is + more vulgar in English, to address a young lady as Miss, without affixing + a name, whereas I know it is the height of breeding to say Mademoiselle in + French, and am told the Spaniards, Italians and Germans, use its synonyme + in the same manner. I had been indignant at Jason's familiarity when he + called Anneke—the pretty Anneke!—Miss; and felt glad of an + occasion to let him understand how I felt on the subject. + </p> + <p> + “What a child you be, a'ter all, Corny!” exclaimed the pedagogue, who was + much too good-natured to take offence at a trifle. “You a bachelor of + arts! But this matter <i>must</i> be set right, if it be only for the + honour of my school. Folks”—Jason never blundered on the words 'one' + or 'people' in this sense—“Folks may think that you have been in the + school since it has been under my care, and I wouldn't for the world have + it get abroad that a youth from my school had neglected to treat a lady + under such circumstances.” + </p> + <p> + Conceiving it useless to remonstrate with <i>me</i> any further, Jason + proceeded forthwith to Anneke, with whom he begged permission to say a + word in private. So eager was my companion to wipe out the stain, and so + surprised was the young lady, who gently declined moving more than a step, + that the conference took place immediately under my observation, neither + of the parties being aware that I necessarily heard or saw all that + passed. + </p> + <p> + “You must excuse Corny, Miss,” Jason commenced, producing his purse again, + and beginning to hunt anew for a quarter and a shilling; “he is quite + young, and knows nawthin' worth speaking of, of the ways of mankind. Ah! + here is just the money—three ninepennies, or three York shillings. + Here, Miss, excuse Corny, and overlook it all; when he is older, he will + not make such blunders.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not certain that I understand you, sir!” exclaimed Anneke, who had + shrunk back a little at the 'Miss,' and who now saw Jason hold out the + silver, with a surprise she took no pains to conceal. + </p> + <p> + “This is the price of the tickets—yes, that's all. Naw-thin' else, + on honour. Corny, you remember, was so awful dumb as to let you pay, just + as if you had been a gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke now smiled, and glancing at me at the same instant, a bright blush + suffused her face, though the meaning of my eye, as I could easily see, + strongly tempted her to laugh. + </p> + <p> + “It is very well as it is, Mr. Newcome, though I feel much indebted to + your liberal intentions,” she said, turning to rejoin her friends; “it is + customary in New York for ladies to pay, themselves, for everything of + this nature. When I go to Connecticut, I shall feel infinitely indebted to + you for another such offer.” + </p> + <p> + Jason did not know what to make of it! He long after insisted that the + young lady was 'huffed,' as he called it, and that she had refused to take + the money merely because she was thus offended. + </p> + <p> + “There is a manner, you know, Corny,” he said, “of doing even a genteel + thing, and that is to do it genteelly. I much doubt if a genteel thing <i>can</i> + be done ungenteelly. One thing I'm thankful for, and that is, that she + don't know that you ever were at the 'Seminarian Institute' in your life;” + such being the appellation Jason had given to that which Mr. Worden had + simply called a 'Boys' School.' To return to the booth. + </p> + <p> + The lion had many visitors, and we had some difficulty in finding places. + As a matter of course, Anneke was put in front, most of the men who were + in the booth giving way to her with respectful attention. Unfortunately, + the young lady wore an exceedingly pretty shawl, in which scarlet was a + predominant colour; and that which occurred has been attributed to this + circumstance, though I am far from affirming such to have been literally + the case. Anneke, from the first, manifested no fear; but the circle + pressing on her from without, she got so near the cage that the beast + thrust a paw through, and actually caught hold of the shawl, drawing the + alarmed girl quite up to the bars. I was at Anneke's side, and with a + presence of mind that now surprises me, I succeeded in throwing the shawl + from the precious creature's shoulders, and of fairly lifting her from the + ground and setting her down again at a safe distance from the beast. All + this passed so soon that half the persons present were unconscious of what + had occurred until it was all over; and what astonishes me most is, that I + do not retain the least recollection of the pleasure I ought to have felt + while my arm encircled Anneke Mordaunt's slender waist, and while she was + altogether supported by me. The keeper interfered immediately, and the + lion relinquished the shawl, looking like a disappointed beast when he + found it did not contain its beautiful owner. + </p> + <p> + Anneke was rescued before she had time fully to comprehend the danger she + had been in. Even Dirck could not advance to her aid, though he saw and + comprehended the imminent risk ran by the being he loved best in the + world; but Dirck was always so slow! I must do Jason the credit to say + that he behaved well, though so situated as to be of no real use. He + rushed forward to assist Anneke, and remained to draw away the shawl, as + soon as the keeper had succeeded in making the lion relinquish his hold. + But, all this passed so rapidly, as to give little opportunity for noting + incidents. + </p> + <p> + Anneke was certainly well frightened by this adventure with the lion, as + was apparent by her changing colour, and a few tears that succeeded. + Still, a glass of water, and a minute or two, seated in a chair, were + sufficient to restore her self-composure, and she remained with us, for + half an hour, examining and admiring her terrible assailant. + </p> + <p> + And, here, let me add, for the benefit of those who have never had an + opportunity of seeing the king of beasts, that he is a sight well worthy + to behold! I have never viewed an elephant, which travelled gentlemen tell + me is a still more extraordinary animal, though I find it difficult to + imagine anything finer, in its way, than the lion which came so near + injuring “sweet Anne Mordaunt.” I question if any of us were aware of the + full extent of the danger she ran, until we began to reflect on it coolly, + after time and leisure were afforded. As soon as the commotion naturally + produced at first, had subsided, the incident seemed forgotten, and we + left the booth, after a long visit, expatiating on the animal, and its + character, apparently in forgetfulness of that which, by one blow of his + powerful paw, the lion might have rendered fatal to one of the very + sweetest and happiest innocents of the whole province, but for the timely + and merciful interposition of a kind providence. + </p> + <p> + After the little affair of the tickets, I walked on with Anneke, who + declared her intention of quitting the field, her escape beginning to + affect her spirits, and she was afraid that some particularly kind friend + might carry an exaggerated account of what had happened to her father. + Dirck offered to accompany her home, for Mr. Mordaunt kept no carriage; + or, at least, nothing that was habitually used as a town equipage. We had + all gone as far as the verge of the Common with Anneke, when the sweet + girl stopped, looked at me earnestly, and, while her colour changed and + tears rose to her eyes, she said,— + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Littlepage, I am just getting to be fully conscious of what I owe to + you. The thing passed so suddenly, and I was so much alarmed, that I did + not know how to express myself at the time, nor am I certain that I do + now. Believe me, notwithstanding, that I never can forget this morning, + and I beg of you, if you have a sister, to carry to her the proffered + friendship of Anneke Mordaunt, and tell her that her own prayers in behalf + of her brother will not be more sincere than mine.” + </p> + <p> + Before I could recollect myself, so as to make a suitable answer, Anneke + had curtsied and walked away, with her handkerchief to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Nay, be brief: + I see into thy end, and am almost + A man already.” + + <i>Cymbeline</i>. +</pre> + <p> + As Dirck accompanied Miss Mordaunt to her father's house in Crown Street, + <a href="#linknote-10" name="linknoteref-10" id="linknoteref-10"><small>10</small></a> + I took an occasion to give Jason the slip, being in no humour to listen to + his lectures on the proprieties of life, and left the Pinkster field as + fast as I could. Notwithstanding the size and importance of New York, a + holiday like this could not fail to draw great crowds of persons to + witness the sports. In 1757, James de Lancey was at the head of the + government of the province, as indeed he had been, in effect, for much of + his life; and I remember to have met his chariot, carrying the younger + children of the family to the field, on my way into the town. As the day + advanced, carriages of one sort and another made their appearance in + Broadway, principally conveying the children of their different owners. + All these belonged to people of the first mark; and I saw the Ship that + denotes the arms of Livingston, the Lance, of the de Lanceys, the Burning + Castle, of the Morrises, and other armorial bearings that were well known + in the province. Carriages, certainly, were not as common in 1757 as they + have since become; but most of our distinguished people rode in their + coaches, chariots, or phaetons, or conveyances of some sort or other, when + there was occasion to go so far out of town as the Common, which is the + site of the present “Park.” The roads on the island of Manhattan were very + pretty and picturesque, winding among rocks and through valleys, being + lined with groves and copses in a way to render all the drives rural and + retired. Here and there, one came to a country-house, the residence of + some person of importance, which, by its comfort and snugness, gave all + the indications of wealth and of a prudent taste. Mr. Speaker Nicoll had + <a href="#linknote-11" name="linknoteref-11" id="linknoteref-11"><small>11</small></a> + occupied a dwelling of this sort for a long series of years, that was + about a league from town, and which is still standing, as I pass it + constantly in travelling between Satanstoe and York. I never saw the + Patentee myself, as he died long before my birth; but his house near town + still stands, as I have said, a memorial of past ages! + </p> + <p> + The whole town seemed alive, and everybody had a desire to get a glance at + the sports of the Pinkster Field; though the more dignified and cultivated + had self-denial enough to keep aloof, since it would hardly have comported + with their years and stations to be seen in such a place. The war had + brought many regiments into the province, however, and I met at least + twenty young officers, strolling out to the scene of amusement, as I + walked into town. I will confess I gazed at these youths with admiration, + and not entirely without envy, as they passed me in pairs, laughing and + diverting themselves with the grotesque groups of blacks that were + occasionally met, coming in from their sports. These young men I knew had + enjoyed the advantages of being educated at home, some of them, quite + likely, in the Universities, and all of them amid the high civilization + and taste of England. I say all of them, too hastily; as there were young + men of the colonies among them, who probably had not enjoyed these + advantages. The easy air, self-possession, and quiet, what shall I call + it?—insolence would be too strong a word, and a term that I, the son + and grandson of old king's officers, would not like to apply, and yet it + comes nearest to what I mean as applicable to the covert manner of these + young men—but, whatever it was, that peculiar air of metropolitan + superiority over provincial ignorance and provincial dependence, which + certainly distinguished all the younger men of this class, had an effect + on me, I find it difficult to describe. I was a loyal subject, loved the + King,—most particularly since he was so identified with the + Protestant succession,—loved all of the blood-royal, and wished for + nothing more than the honour and lustre of the English crown. One thus + disposed could not but feel amicably towards the King's officers; yet, I + will confess, there were moments when this air of ill-concealed + superiority, this manner that so much resembled that of the master towards + the servant, the superior to the dependent, the patron to the client, gave + me deep offence, and feelings so bitter, that I was obliged to struggle + hard to suppress them. But this is Anticipating, and is interrupting the + course of my narrative. I am inclined to think there must always be a good + deal of this feeling, where the relation of principal and dependant + exists, as between distinct territories. + </p> + <p> + I was a good deal excited, and a little fatigued with the walk and the + incidents of the morning, and determined to proceed at once to Duke + Street, and share the cold dinner of my aunt; for few private families in + York, that depended on regular cooks for their food, had anything served + warm on their tables, for that and the two succeeding days. Here and there + a white substitute was found, it is true, and we had the benefit of such + an assistant at half-past one. It was the English servant of a Col. + Mosely, an officer of the army, who was intimate at my uncle's, and who + had had the civility to offer a man for this occasion. I afterwards + ascertained, that many officers manifested the same kind spirit towards + various other families in which they visited on terms of friendship. + </p> + <p> + Marriages between young English officers and our pretty, delicate York + belles, were of frequent occurrence, and I had felt a twinge or two, on + the subject of Anneke, that morning, as I passed the youths of the 55th, + 60th, or Loyal Americans, 17th, and other regiments that were then in the + province. + </p> + <p> + My aunt was descending from the drawing-room, in dinner dress—for + that no lady ever neglects, even though she dines on a cold dumpling. As I + opened the street-door, Mrs. Legge was not coming down alone to take her + seat at table, but, having some extra duty to perform in consequence of + the absence of most of her household, she was engaged in that service. + Seeing me, however, she stopped on the landing of the stains, and beckoned + me to approach. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” she said, “what have you been doing, my child, to have drawn this + honour upon you?” + </p> + <p> + “Honour!—I am ignorant of having even received any. What can you + mean, my dear aunt?” + </p> + <p> + “Here is Herman Mordaunt waiting to see you, in the drawing-room. He asked + particularly for <i>you</i>;—wishes to <i>see</i> you—expresses + his regrets that <i>you</i> are not in, and talks only of <i>you</i>!” + </p> + <p> + “In which case, I ought to hasten up stairs in order to receive him, as + soon as possible. I will tell you all about it at dinner, aunt;—excuse + me now.” + </p> + <p> + Away I went, with a beating heart, to receive a visit from Anneke's + father. I can scarcely give a reason why this gentleman was usually + called, when he was spoken of, and sometimes when he was spoken to, <i>Herman</i> + Mordaunt; unless, indeed, it were, that being in part of Dutch extraction, + the name which denoted the circumstance (Hermanus—pronounced by the + Hollanders, Her<i>maa</i>nus,) was used by a portion of the population in + token of the fact, and adopted by others in pure compliance. But <i>Herman</i> + Mordaunt was he usually styled; and this, too, in the way of respect, and + not as coarse-minded persons affect to speak of their superiors, or in a + way to boast of their own familiarity. I should have thought it an honour, + at my time of life, to receive a visit from Herman Mordaunt; but my heart + fairly beat, as I have said, as I went hastily up stairs, to meet Anneke's + father. + </p> + <p> + My uncle was not in, and I found my visitor waiting for me, alone, in the + drawing-room. Aware of the state of the family, and of all families, + indeed, during Pinkster, he had insisted on my aunt's quitting him, while + he looked over some new books that had recently been received from home; + among which was a new and very handsome edition of the Spectator, a work + that enjoys a just celebrity throughout the colonies. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Mordaunt advanced to receive me with studied politeness, yet a warmth + that could not well be counterfeited, the instant I approached. + Nevertheless, his manner was easy and natural; and to me he appeared to be + the highest-bred man I had ever seen. + </p> + <p> + “I am thankful that the debt of gratitude I owe you, my young friend,” he + said, at once, and without preface of any sort, unless that of manner be + so received, “is due to the son of a gentleman I so much esteem as Evans + Littlepage. A loyal subject, an honest man, and a well-connected and + well-descended gentleman, like him, may well be the parent of a brave + youth, who does not hesitate to face even lions, in defence of the weaker + sex.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot affect to misunderstand you, sir,” I answered; “and I sincerely + congratulate you that matters are no worse; though you greatly overrate + the danger. I doubt if even a lion would have the heart to hurt Miss + Mordaunt, were she in his power.” + </p> + <p> + I think this was a very pretty speech, for a youth of twenty; and I + confess I look back upon it, even now, with complacency. If I occasionally + betray weakness of this character, I beg the reader to recollect that I am + acting in the part of an honest historian, and that it is my aim to + conceal nothing that ought to be known. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt did not resume his seat, on account of the lateness of the + hour, (half-past one); but he made me professions of friendship, and named + Friday, the first moment when he could command the services of his + domestics, when I should dine with him. The army had introduced later + hours than was usual; and this invitation was given for three o'clock; it + being said, at the time, as I well remember, that persons of fashion in + London sat down to table even later than this. After remaining with me + five minutes, Herman Mordaunt took his leave. Of course, I accompanied him + to the door, where we parted with many bows. + </p> + <p> + At dinner, I told my uncle and aunt all that had occurred, and was glad to + hear them both speak so favourably of my new acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + “Herman Mordaunt might be a much more considerable man than he is,” + observed my uncle, “were he disposed to enter into public life. He has + talents, a good education, a very handsome estate, and is well-connected + in the colony, certainly; some say at home, also.” + </p> + <p> + “And Anneke is a sweet young thing,” added my aunt; “and, since Corny was + to assist any young lady, I am heartily glad it was Anneke. She is an + excellent creature, and her mother was one of my most intimate friends, as + she was of my sister Littlepage, too. You must go and inquire after her + health, this evening, Corny. Such an attention is due, after what has + passed all round.” + </p> + <p> + Did I wish to comply with this advice? Out of all question; and yet I was + too young, and too little at my ease, to undertake this ceremony, without + many misgivings. Luckily, Dirck came in, in the evening; and my aunt + repeating her opinion before my friend, he at once declared it was + altogether proper, and that he thought Anneke would have a right to expect + it. As he offered to be my companion, we were soon on our way to Crown + Street, in which Mr. Mordaunt owned and inhabited a very excellent house. + We were admitted by Mr. Mordaunt himself, not one of his blacks, having + yet returned from the Pinkster field. + </p> + <p> + Dirck appeared to be on the best terms, not only with Herman Mordaunt, but + with his charming daughter. I had observed that the latter always called + him “<i>cousin</i> Dirck,” and I hardly knew whether to interpret this as + a sign of particular or of family regard. That Dirck was fonder of Anneke + Mordaunt than of any other human being, I could easily see; and I confess + that the discovery already began to cause uneasiness. I loved Dirck, and + wished he loved any one else but the very being I feared he did. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt showed me the way, up the noble, wide, mahogany-garnished + staircase of his dwelling, and ushered us into a very handsome, though not + very large, but well-lighted drawing-room. There sat Anneke, his daughter, + in the loveliness of her maiden charms, a little more dressed than usual, + perhaps, for she had three or four young and lovely girls with her, and + five or six young men; among whom were no less than three scarlet coats. + </p> + <p> + I shall not attempt to conceal my weakness. Only twenty, inexperienced and + unaccustomed to town society, I felt awkward and unpleasantly the instant + I entered the room; nor did the feeling subside during the first + half-hour. Anneke came forward, one or two steps, to meet me; and I could + see, she was almost as much confused, as I was myself. She blushed, as she + thanked me for the service I had rendered, and expressed her satisfaction + that her father had been fortunate enough to find me at home, and had had + an opportunity of saying a little of what he felt, on the occasion. She + then invited me to be seated, naming me to the company, and telling me who + two or three of the young ladies were. From these last I received sundry + approving smiles; which I took as so many thanks for serving their friend; + while I could not help seeing that I was an object of examination to most + of the men present. The three officers, in particular, looked at me the + most intently, and the longest. + </p> + <p> + “I trust, your little accident, which could have been of no great moment, + in itself, since you escaped so well, did not have the effect to prevent + you from enjoying the rare fun of this Pinkster affair?” said one of the + scarlet coats, as soon as the movement caused by my reception had + subsided. + </p> + <p> + “You call it a 'little accident,' Mr. Bulstrode,” returned Anneke, with a + reproachful shake of her pretty head, “but, I can assure you, it is not a + trifle, to a young lady, to find herself in the paws of a lion.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Serious</i> accident, then; since, I see, you are resolved to consider + yourself a victim;” rejoined the other; “but, not serious enough, I trust, + to deprive you of the fun?” + </p> + <p> + “Pinkster fields, and Pinkster frolics, are no novelties to us, sir, as + they occur every season; and I am just old enough not to have missed one + of them all, for the last twelve years.” + </p> + <p> + “We heard you had been 'out,” put in another red-coat, whom I had heard + called Billings, “accompanied by a little army, of what Bulstrode called, + the Light Infantry.” + </p> + <p> + Here three or four of the other young ladies joined in the discourse, at + once, protesting against Mr. Bulstrode's placing their younger sisters in + the army, in so cavalier a manner; an accusation that Mr. Bulstrode + endeavoured to parry, by declaring his hopes of having them all, not only + in the army, but in his own regiment, one day or other. At this, there was + a certain amount of mirth, and various protestations of an unwillingness + to enlist; in which, I was glad to see, that neither Anneke, nor her most + intimate friend, Mary Wallace, saw fit to join, I liked their reserve of + manner, far better than the girlish trifling of their companions; and, I + could see, that all the men respected them the more for it. There was a + good deal of general and disjointed conversation that succeeded; which I + shall not pretend to follow or relate, but confine myself to such + observations as had a bearing on matters that were connected with myself. + </p> + <p> + As none of the young soldiers were addressed by their military titles, + such things never occurring in the better circles, as I now discovered, + and, least of all, in those connected with the army, I was not able, at + the time, to ascertain the rank of the three red-coats; though I + afterwards ascertained, that the youngest was an ensign, of the name of + Harris; a mere boy, and the younger son of a member of Parliament. The + next oldest, Billings, was a captain, and was said to be a natural son of + a nobleman; while Bulstrode was actually the oldest son of a baronet, of + three or four thousand a year, and had already bought his way up as high + as a Majority, though only four-and-twenty. This last was a handsome + fellow, too; nor had I been an hour in his company, before I saw, plainly + enough, that he was a strong admirer of Anneke Mordaunt. The other two + evidently admired themselves too much, to have any very lively feelings on + the subject of other persons. As for Dirck, younger than myself, and + diffident, as well as slow by nature, he kept himself altogether in the + back-ground, conversing, most of the time, with Herman Mordaunt, on the + subject of farming. + </p> + <p> + We had been together an hour, and I had acquired sufficient ease to change + my seat, and to look at a picture or two, which adorned the walls, and + which were said to be originals, from the Old World; for, to own the + truth, the art of painting has not made much progress in the colonies. We + <i>have</i> painters, it is true, and one or two are said to be men of + rare merit, the ladies being very fond of sitting to them for their + portraits; but these are exceptions. At a future day, when critics shall + have immortalized the names of a Smybert, and a Watson, and a Blackburn, + the people of these provinces will become aware of the talents they once + possessed among them; and the grandchildren of those who neglected these + men of genius, in their day—ay, their descendants to the latest + generations—will revenge the wrongs of merit and talent, to the end + of civilized time. It is a failing of colonies to be diffident of their + own opinions; but I have heard gentlemen, who were educated at home, and + who possessed cultivated and refined tastes, affirm that the painters of + Europe, when visiting this hemisphere, have retained all their excellence; + and have painted as freely and as well, under an American, as under a + European sun. As for a sister art, the Thespian muse had actually made her + appearance among us, five years before the time of my visit to town in + 1757, or in 1752; a theatre having actually been built and opened in + Nassau Street in 1753, with a company under the care of the celebrated + Hallam, and his family. This theatre I had been dying to visit, while it + stood, for as yet I had never witnessed a theatrical performance; but my + mother's injunctions prevented me from entering it while at college. “When + you are old enough, Corny,” she used to say, “you shall have my permission + to go as often as is proper; but you are now of an age, when Shakspeare + and Rowe might unsettle your Latin and Greek.” My task of obedience had + not been very difficult, inasmuch as the building in Nassau Street, the + second regular theatre ever erected in British America, was taken down, + and a church erected in its place. <a href="#linknote-12" + name="linknoteref-12" id="linknoteref-12"><small>12</small></a> The + comedians went to the islands, and had not reappeared on the continent + down to the period of which I am now writing; nor did their return occur + until the following year. That they were expected, however, and that a new + house had been built for them, in another part of the town, I was aware, + though month after month passed away, and the much-expected company did + not appear. I had understood, however, that the large military force + collecting in the colony, would be likely to bring them back soon; and the + conversation soon took a turn, that proved how much interest the young, + the gay, and the fair, felt in the result. I was still looking at a + picture, when Mr. Bulstrode approached me, and entered into conversation. + It will be remembered, that this gentleman was four years my senior; that + he had been at one of the universities; was the heir to a baronetcy; knew + the world; had risen to a Majority in the army, and was by nature, as well + as training, agreeable, when he had a mind to be, and genteel. These + circumstances, I could not but feel, gave him a vast advantage over me; + and I heartily wished that we stood anywhere but in the presence of Anneke + Mordaunt, as he thus saw fit to single me out for invidious comparison, by + a sort of <i>tête-à-tête,</i> or aside. Still, I could not complain of his + manner, which was both polite and respectful; though I could scarce divest + myself of the idea, that he was covertly amusing himself, the whole time. + </p> + <p> + “You are a fortunate man, Mr. Littlepage,” he commenced, “in having had it + in your power to do so important a service to Miss Mordaunt. We all envy + you your luck, while we admire your spirit, and I feel certain the men of + our regiment will take some proper notice of it. Miss Anneke is in + possession of half our hearts, and we should be still more heartless to + overlook such a service.” + </p> + <p> + I muttered some half-intelligible answer to this compliment, and my new + acquaintance proceeded. + </p> + <p> + “I am almost surprised, Mr. Littlepage,” he added, “that a man of your + spirit does not come among us in times as stirring as these. They tell me + both your father and grandfather served, and that you are quite at your + ease. You will find a great many men of merit and fashion among us, and I + make no doubt they would contribute to make your time pass agreeably + enough. Large reinforcements are expected, and if you are inclined for a + pair of colours, I think I know a battalion in which there are a vacancy + or two, and which will certainly serve in the colonies. It would afford me + great pleasure to help to further your views, should you be disposed to + turn them towards the army.” + </p> + <p> + Now all this was said with an air of great apparent frankness and + sincerity, which I fancied was only the more visible from the circumstance + that Anneke was so seated as unavoidably to hear every word of what was + said. I observed that she even turned her eyes on me as I made my answer, + though I did not dare so far to observe her in turn as to note their + expression. + </p> + <p> + “I am very sensible, Mr. Bulstrode, of the liberality and kindness of your + intentions,” I answered steadily enough, for pride came to my assistance, + “though I fear it will not be in my power to profit by it at once, if + ever. My grandfather is still living, and he has much influence over me + and my fortune, and I know it is his wish that I should remain at + Satanstoe.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” demanded Bulstrode, with more quickness and curiosity than + strictly comported with good-breeding perhaps. + </p> + <p> + “Satanstoe; I do not wonder you smile, for it has an odd sound, but it is + the name my grandfather has given the family place in Westchester. Given, + I have said, though translated would be better, as I understand the + present appellation is pretty literally rendered into English from the + Dutch.” + </p> + <p> + “I like the name exceedingly, Mr. Littlepage, and I feel certain I should + like your good, old, honest, Anglo-Saxon grandfather. But, pardon me, it + is his wish you should remain at Satansfoot?” + </p> + <p> + “Satanstoe, sir; we do not aspire to the whole foot. It is my + grandfather's wish that I remain at home until of age, which will not be + now for some months.” + </p> + <p> + “By way of keeping you out of Satan's footsteps, I suppose. Well, these + old gentlemen are often right. Should you alter your views, however, my + dear Littlepage, do not forget me, but remember you can count on one who + has some little influence, and who will ever be ready to exert it in the + behalf of one who has proved so serviceable to Miss Mordaunt. Sir Harry is + a martyr to the gout, and talks of letting me stand in his place at the + dissolution. In that case my wishes will naturally carry more weight. I + like that name of Satanstoe amazingly!” + </p> + <p> + “I am infinitely obliged to you, Mr. Bulstrode, though I will confess I + have never looked forward to rising in the world by taxing my friends. One + may own that he has had some hopes founded on merit and honesty—” + </p> + <p> + “Poh! poh!—my dear Littlepage, honesty is a very pretty thing to + talk about, but I suppose you remember what Juvenal says on that + interesting subject—“<i>probitas laudatur et alget.</i>” I dare say + you are fresh enough from college to remember that comprehensive + sentiment.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never read Juvenal, Mr. Bulstrode, and never wish to, if such be + the tendency of what he teaches—” + </p> + <p> + “Juvenal was a satirist, you know,” interrupted Bulstrode a little + hastily, for by this time he too had ascertained that Anneke was + listening, and he betrayed some eagerness to get rid of so flagitious a + sentiment; “and satirists speak of things as they are, rather than as they + ought to be. I dare say Rome deserved all she got, for the moralists give + a very sad account of her condition. Of all the large capitals of which we + have any account, London is the only town of even tolerable manners.” + </p> + <p> + What young Bulstrode would have ventured to say next, it is out of my + power to guess; for a certain Miss Warren, who was of the company, and who + particularly affected the youth, luckily called out at this critical + instant— + </p> + <p> + “Your attention one moment, if you please, Mr. Bulstrode; is it true that + the gentlemen of the army have been getting the new theatre in + preparation, and that they intend to favour us with some representations? + A secret something like this has just leaked out, from Mr. Harris, who + even goes so far as to add that you can tell us all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Harris must be put under an arrest for this, though I hear the + colonel let the cat out of the bag, at the Lt. Governor's table, as early + as last week.” + </p> + <p> + “I can assure you, Mr. Bulstrode,” Anneke observed calmly, “that I have + heard rumours to this effect for quite a fortnight. You must not blame Mr. + Harris solely, for your whole regiment has been hinting to the same + purpose far and near.” + </p> + <p> + “Then the delinquent will escape, this time. I confess the charge; we have + hired the new theatre, and do intend to solicit the honour of the ladies + coming to hear me murder Cato, and Scrub; a pretty climax of characters, + you will admit, Miss Mordaunt?” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing of Scrub, though I have read Mr. Addison's play, and think + you have no need of being ashamed of the character of Cato. When is the + theatre to open?” + </p> + <p> + “We follow the sable gentry. As soon as St. Pinkster has received his + proper share of attention, we shall introduce Dom-Cato and Mr. Scrub to + your acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + All the young ladies, but Anneke and her friend Mary Wallace, laughed, two + or three repeating the words 'St. Pinkster,' as if they contained + something much cleverer than it was usual to hear. A general burst of + exclamations, expressions of pleasure, and of questions and answers + followed, in which two or three voices were heard at the same moment, + during which time Anneke turned to me, who was standing near her, at the + spot occupied by Bulstrode a minute before, and seemed anxious to say + something. + </p> + <p> + “Do you seriously think of the army, Mr. Littlepage?” she asked, changing + colour at the freedom of her own question. + </p> + <p> + “In a war like this, no one can say when he may be called on to go out,” I + answered. “But, only as a defender of the soil, if at all.” + </p> + <p> + I thought Anneke Mordaunt seemed pleased with this answer. After a short + pause, she resumed the dialogue. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you understand Latin, Mr. Littlepage, although you have not + been at the universities?” + </p> + <p> + “As it is taught in our own colleges, Miss Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + “And that is sufficient to tell me what Mr. Bulstrode's quotation means—if + it be proper for me to hear.” + </p> + <p> + “He would hardly presume to use even a Latin saying in your presence, that + is unfit for your ear. The maxim which Mr. Bulstrode attributes to + Juvenal, simply means 'that honesty is praised and starves.'” + </p> + <p> + I thought that something like displeasure settled on the fair, polished, + brow of Miss Mordaunt, who, I could soon see, possessed much character and + high principles for one of her tender years. She said nothing, however, + though she exchanged a very meaning glance with her friend Mary Wallace. + Her lips were moved, and I fancied I could trace the formation of the + sounds “honesty is praised and starves!” + </p> + <p> + “And <i>you</i> are to be Cato I hear, Mr. Bulstrode,” cried one of the + young ladies, who thought more of a scarlet coat, I fancy, than was for + her own good. “How very charming! Will you play the character in + regimentals or in mohair—in a modern or in an ancient dress?” + </p> + <p> + “In my <i>robe de chambre</i>, a little altered for the occasion, Unless + St. Pinkster and his sports should suggest some more appropriate costume,” + answered the young man lightly. + </p> + <p> + “Are you quite aware what feast Pinkster is?” asked Anneke, a little + gravely. + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode actually changed colour, for it had never crossed his mind to + inquire into the character of the holiday; and, to own the truth, the + manner in which it is kept by the negroes of New York, never would + enlighten him much on the subject. + </p> + <p> + “That is information for which I perceive I am now about to be indebted to + Miss Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you shall not be disappointed, Mr. Bulstrode; Pinkster is neither + more nor less than the Festival of Whit-sunday, or the Feast of Pentecost. + I suppose we shall now hear no more of your saint.” + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode took this little punishment, which was very sweetly but quite + steadily uttered, with perfect good-humour, and with a manner so rebuked + as to prove that Anneke possessed great control over him. He bowed in + submission, and she smiled so kindly, that I wished the occasion for the + little pantomime had not occurred. + </p> + <p> + “<i>Our</i> ancestors, Miss Mordaunt, never heard of any Pinkster, you + will remember, and that must explain my ignorance,” he said meekly. + </p> + <p> + “But some of <i>mine</i> have long understood it, and observed the + festival,” answered Anneke. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, on the side of Holland—but when I presume to speak of <i>our</i> + ancestors, I mean those which I can claim the honour of boasting as + belonging to me in common with yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you and Mr. Bulstrode, then, related?” I asked, as it might be + involuntarily and almost too abruptly. + </p> + <p> + Anneke replied, however, in a way to show that she thought the question + natural for the circumstances, and not in the least out of place. + </p> + <p> + “My grandfather's mother, and Mr. Bulstrode's grandfather, were brother + and sister,” was the quiet answer. + </p> + <p> + “This makes us a sort of cousins, according to those Dutch notions which + he so much despises, though I fancy it would not count for much at home.” + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode protested to the contrary, stating that he knew his father + valued his relationship to Mr. Mordaunt, by the earnest manner in which he + had commanded him to cultivate the acquaintance of the family the instant + he reached New York. I saw by this, the footing on which the formidable + Major was placed in the family, everybody seeming to be related to Anneke + Mordaunt but myself. I took an occasion that very evening, to question the + dear girl on the subject of her Dutch connections, giving her a clue to + mine but with all our industry, and some assistance from Herman Mordaunt, + who took an interest in such a subject, as it might be <i>ex officio</i>, + we could make out no affinity worth mentioning. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-10" id="linknote-10"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 10 (<a href="#linknoteref-10">return</a>)<br /> [ Now, Liberty Street.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-11" id="linknote-11"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 11 (<a href="#linknoteref-11">return</a>)<br /> [ The person meant here, + was William Nicoll, Esquire, Patentee of Islip, a large estate on Long + Island, that is still in the family, under a Patent granted in 1683. This + gentleman was a son of Mr. Secretary Nicoll, who is supposed to have been + a relative of Col. Nicoll, the first English Governor. Mr. Speaker Nicoll, + as the son was called, in consequence of having filled that office for + nearly a generation, was the direct ancestor of the Nicolls of Islip and + Shelter Island, as well as of a branch long settled at Stratford, + Connecticut. The house alluded to by Mr. Littlepage, as a relic of + antiquity in <i>his</i> day,—American antiquity, be it remembered,—was + standing a few years since, if it be not still standing, at the point of + junction between the Old Boston Road and the New Road, and nearly opposite + to tha termination of the long avenue that led to Rosehill, originally a + seat of the Watts'. The house stood a short distance above the present + Union Square, and not far from that of the present Gramercy. It was, or + is, a brick-house of one story, with a small court-yard in front; the + House of Refuge being at a little distance on its right. If still + standing, it must now be one of the oldest buildings of any sort, in a + town of 400,000 souls! As Mr. Speaker Nicoll resigned the chair in 1718, + this house must be at least a hundred and thirty or forty years old; and + it may be questioned if a dozen as old, public of private, can be found on + the whole island. + </p> + <p> + As the regular family residences of the Nicolls were in Suffolk, or on + their estates, it is probable that the abode mentioned was, in a measure, + owing to an intermarriage with the Watts', as much as to the necessity of + the Speaker's passing so much time at the seat of government.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-12" id="linknote-12"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 12 (<a href="#linknoteref-12">return</a>)<br /> [ The church is now (1845) + being converted into a Post-Office.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Sir Valentino, I care not for her, I.” + + “I hold him but a fool, that will endanger + His body for a girl that loves him not.” + + “I claim her not, and therefore she is thine.” + + <i>Two Gentlemen of Verona</i>. +</pre> + <p> + I saw Anne Mordaunt several times, either in the street or in her own + house, between that evening and the day I was to dine with her father. The + morning of the last named day Mr. Bulstrode favoured me with a call, and + announced that he was to be of the party in Crown Street, and that the + whole company was to repair to the theatre, to see his own Cato and Scrub, + in the evening. + </p> + <p> + “By giving yourself the trouble to call at the Crown and Bible, kept + hard-by here, in Hanover Square or Queen Street, by honest Hugh Gaine, you + will find a package of tickets for yourself, Mr. and Mrs. Legge, and your + relative Mr. Dirck Follock, as I believe the gentleman is called. These + Dutch have extraordinary patronymics, you must admit, Littlepage.” + </p> + <p> + “It may appear so to an Englishman, though our names are quite as odd to + strangers. But Dirck Van Valkenburgh is not a kinsman of mine, though he + is related to the Mordaunts, <i>your</i> relatives.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it's all the same! I knew he was related to somebody that I know, + and I fancied it was to yourself. I am sure I never see him but I wish he + was in our grenadier company.” + </p> + <p> + “Dirck would do honour to any corps, but you know how it is with the Dutch + families, Mr. Bulstrode. They still retain much of their attachment to + Holland, and do not as often take service in the army, or navy, as we of + English descent.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have thought a century might have cooled them off, a little, + from their veneration of the meadows of Holland. It is the opinion at + home, that New York is a particularly well affected colony.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is, as I hear from all sides. As respects the Dutch, among + ourselves, I have heard my grandfather say, that the reign of King William + had a powerful influence in reconciling them to the new government, but, + since his day, that they are less loyal than formerly. The Van + Valkenburghs, notwithstanding, pass for as good subjects as any that the + house of Hanover possesses. On no account would I injure them in your + opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “Good or bad, we shall hope to see your friend, who is a connection in + some way, as you believe, of the Mordaunts. You will get but a faint idea + of what one of the royal theatres is, Littlepage, by this representation + of ours, though it may serve to kill time. But, I must go to rehearsal; we + shall meet at three.” + </p> + <p> + Here my gay and gallant major made his bow, and took his leave. I + proceeded on to the sign of the Crown and the Bible, where I found a large + collection of people, coming in quest of tickets. As the <i>élite</i> of + the town would not of themselves form an audience sufficiently large to + meet the towering ambition of the players, more than half the tickets were + sold, the money being appropriated to the sick families of soldiers—those + who were not entitled to receive aid from government. It was deemed a high + compliment to receive tickets gratis, though all who did, made it a point + to leave a donation to the fund, with Mr. Gaine. Receiving my package, I + quitted the shop, and it being the hour for the morning promenade, I went + up Wall Street, to the Mall, as Trinity Church Walk was even then called. + Here, I expected to meet Dirck, and hoped to see Anneke, for the place was + much frequented by the young and gay, both in the mornings and in the + evenings. The bands of different regiments were stationed in the + churchyard, and the company was often treated to much fine martial music. + Some few of the more scrupulous objected to this desecration of the + churchyard, but the army had everything pretty much in its own way. As + they were supposed to do nothing but what was approved of at home, the + dissenters were little heeded, nor do I think the army would have greatly + cared, had they been more numerous. + </p> + <p> + I dare say there were fifty young ladies promenading the church-walk when + I reached it, and nearly as many young men in attendance on them; no small + portion of the last being scarlet-coats, though the mohairs had their + representatives there too. A few blue-jackets were among us also, there + being two or three king's cruisers in port. As no one presumed to + promenade the Mall, who was not of a certain stamp of respectability, the + company was all gaily dressed; and I will confess that I was much struck + with the air of the place, the first time I showed myself among the gay + idlers. The impression made on me that morning was so vivid, that I will + endeavour to describe the scene, as it now presents itself to my mind. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, there was the noble street, quite eighty feet in width + in its narrowest part, and gradually expanding as you looked towards the + bay, until it opened into an area of more than twice that width, at the + place called the Bowling-Green. <a href="#linknote-13" + name="linknoteref-13" id="linknoteref-13"><small>13</small></a> Then came + the Fort, crowning a sharp eminence, and overlooking everything in that + quarter of the town. In the rear of the Fort, or in its front, taking a + water view, lay the batteries that had been built on the rocks which form + the south-western termination of the island. Over these rocks, which were + black and picturesque, and over the batteries they supported, was obtained + a view of the noble bay, dotted here and there with some speck of a sail, + or possibly with some vessel anchored on its placid bosom. Of the two rows + of elegant houses, most of them of brick, and with very few exceptions + principally of two stories in height, it is scarcely necessary to speak, + as there are few who have not heard of, and formed some notion of + Broadway; a street that all agree is one day to be the pride of the + western world. + </p> + <p> + In the other direction, I will admit that the view was not so remarkable, + the houses being principally of wood, and of a somewhat ignoble + appearance. Nevertheless the army was said to frequent those habitations + quite as much as they did any other in the place. After reaching the + Common, or present Park, where the great Boston road led off into the + country, the view was just the reverse of that which was seen in the + opposite quarter. Here, all was inland, and rural. It is true, the new + Bridewell had been erected in that quarter, and there was also a new gaol, + both facing the common; and the king's troops had barracks in their rear; + but high, abrupt, conical hills, with low marshy land, orchards and + meadows, gave to all that portion of the island a peculiarly novel and + somewhat picturesque character. Many of the hills in that quarter, and + indeed all over the widest part of the island, are now surmounted by + country-houses, as some were then, including Petersfield, the ancient + abode of the Stuyvesants, or that farm which, by being called after the + old Dutch governor's retreat, has given the name of Bowery, or Bouerie, to + the road that led to it; as well as the Bowery-house, as it was called, + the country abode of the then Lieutenant Governor, James de Lancey, Mount + Bayard, a place belonging to that respectable family; Mount Pitt, another + that was the property of Mrs. Jones, the wife of Mr. Justice Jones, a + daughter of James de Lancey, and various other mounts, houses, hills, and + places, that are familiar to the gentry and people of New York. + </p> + <p> + But, the reader can imagine for himself the effect produced by such a + street as Broadway, reaching very nearly half a mile in length, + terminating at one end, in an elevated, commanding Fort, with its + back-ground of batteries, rocks and bay, and, at the other, with the + common, on which troops were now constantly parading, the Bridewell an I + gaol, and the novel scene I have just mentioned. Nor is Trinity itself to + be forgotten. This edifice, one of the noblest, if not the most noble of + its kind, in all the colonies, with its gothic architecture, statues in + carved stone, and flanking walls, was a close accessory of the view, + giving to the whole grandeur, and a moral. <a href="#linknote-14" + name="linknoteref-14" id="linknoteref-14"><small>14</small></a> + </p> + <p> + As has been said, I found the Mall crowded with young persons of fashion + and respectability. This Mall was near a hundred yards in length; and it + follows that there must have been a goodly show of youth and beauty. The + fine weather had commenced; spring had fairly opened; Pinkster Blossoms + (the wild honeysuckle) had been seen in abundance throughout the week; and + everything and person appeared gay and happy. + </p> + <p> + I could discover that my person in this crowd attracted attention as a + stranger. I say as a stranger; for I am unwilling to betray so much vanity + as to ascribe the manner in which many eyes followed me, to any vain + notion that I was known or admired. Still, I will not so far disparage the + gifts of a bountiful Providence, as to leave the impression that my face, + person, or air was particularly disagreeable. This would not be the fact; + and I have now reached a time of life when something like the truth may be + told, without the imputation of conceit. My mother often boasted to her + intimates, “that Corny was one of the best-made, handsomest, most active, + and genteelest youths in the colony.” This I know, for such things will + leak out; but mothers are known to have a remarkable weakness on the + subject of their children. As I was the sole surviving offspring of my + dear mother, who was one of the best-hearted women that ever breathed, it + is highly probable that the notions she entertained of her son partook + largely of the love she bore me. It is true, my aunt Legge, on more than + one occasion, has been heard to express a very similar opinion; though + nothing can be more natural than that sisters should think alike, on a + family matter of this particular nature, more especially as my aunt Legge + never had a child of her own to love and praise. + </p> + <p> + Let all this be as it may, well stared at was I, as I mingled among the + idlers on Trinity Church Walk, on the occasion named. As for myself, my + own eyes were bent anxiously on the face of every pretty, delicate young + creature that passed, in the hope of seeing Anneke. I both wished and + dreaded to meet her; for, to own the truth, my mind was dwelling on her + beauty, her conversation, her sentiments, her grace, her gentleness, and + withal her spirit, a good deal more than half the time. I had some qualms + on the subject of Dirck, I will confess; but Dirck was so young, that his + feelings could not be much interested, after all; and then Anneke was a + second cousin, and that was clearly too near to marry. My grandfather had + always put his foot down firmly against any connection between relations + that were nearer than <i>third</i> cousins; and I now saw how proper were + his reasons. If they were even farther removed, so much the better, he + said; and so much the better it was. + </p> + <p> + If the reader should ask me why I <i>dreaded</i> to meet Anne Mordaunt, + under such circumstances, I might be at a loss to give him a very + intelligible answer. I feared even to see the sweet face I sought; and oh! + how soft, serene, and angel-like it was, at that budding age of seventeen!—but, + though I almost feared to see it, when at last I saw her I had so + anxiously sought approaching me, arm and arm with Mary Walface, having + Bulstrode next herself, and Harris next her friend, my eyes were instantly + averted, as if they had unexpectedly lighted on something disagreeable. I + should have passed without even the compliment of a bow, had not my + friends been more at their ease, and more accustomed to the free ways of + town life than I happened to be myself. + </p> + <p> + “How's this, Cornelius, <i>Coeur de Lion</i>!” exclaimed Bulstrode, + stopping, thus causing the whole party to stop with him, or to appear to + wish to avoid me; “will you not recognise us, though it is not an hour + since you and I parted? I hope you found the tickets; and when you have + answered 'yes,' I hope you will turn and do me the honour to bow to these + ladies.” + </p> + <p> + I apologized, I am afraid I blushed; for I detected Anneke looking at me, + as I thought, with some little concern, as if she pitied my awkward + country embarrassment. As for Bulstrode, I did not understand him at that + time; it exceeding my observation to be certain whether he considered me + of sufficient importance or not, to feel any concern on my account, in his + very obvious suit with Anneke. Nevertheless, as he treated me with + cordiality and respect, while he dealt with me so frankly, there was not + room to take offence. Of course, I turned and walked back with the party, + after had properly saluted the ladies and Mr. Harris. + </p> + <p> + “<i>Coeur de Lion</i> is a better name for a soldier than for a civilian;” + said Anneke, as we moved forward; “and, however much Mr. Littlepage may <i>deserve</i> + the title, I am not certain, Mr. Bulstrode, he would not prefer leaving it + among you gentlemen who serve the king.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad of this occasion, Mr. Littlepage, to enlist you on my side, in + a warfare I am compelled to wage with Miss Anne Mordaunt,” said the Major + gaily. “It is on the subject of the great merit of us poor fellows who + have crossed the wide Atlantic in order to protect the colonies, New York + among the number, and their people, Miss Mordaunt and Miss Wallace + inclusively, from the grasp of their wicked enemies, the French. The + former young lady has a way of reasoning on the matter to which I cannot + assent, and I am willing to choose you as arbitrator between us.” + </p> + <p> + “Before Mr. Littlepage accept the office, it is proper he should know its + duties and responsibilities,” said Anneke, smiling. “In the first place, + he will find Mr. Bulstrode with loud professions of attachment to the + colonies, much disposed to think them provinces that owe their very + existence to England; while I maintain it is English <i>men</i>, and that + it is not England, that have done so much in America. As for New York, Mr. + Littlepage, and especially as for you and me, we can also say a word in + favour of Holland. I am very proud of my Dutch connections and Dutch + descent.” + </p> + <p> + I was much gratified with the “as for you and me;” though I believe I + cared less for Holland than she did herself. I made an answer much in the + vein of the moment; but the conversation soon changed to the subject of + the military theatre that was about to open. + </p> + <p> + “I shall dread you as a critic, cousin Annie,” so Bulstrode often termed + Anneke, as I soon discovered; “I find you are not too well disposed to us + of the cockade, and I think you have a particular spite to our regiment. I + know that Billings and Harris, too, hold you in the greatest possible + dread.” + </p> + <p> + “They then feel apprehensive of a very ignorant critic; for I never was + present at a theatrical entertainment in my life,” Anneke answered with + perfect simplicity. “So far as I can learn, there never has been but one + season of any regular company, in this colony; and that was when I was a + very little and a very young girl—as I am now neither very large, + nor very old as a young woman.” + </p> + <p> + “You see, Littlepage, with how much address my cousin avoids adding, and + 'very uninteresting, and very ugly, and very disagreeable, and very much + unsought,' and fifty other things she <i>might</i> add with such perfect + truth and modesty! But is it true, that the theatre was open only one + season, here?” + </p> + <p> + “So my father tells me, though I know very little of the facts themselves. + To-night will be my first appearance in <i>front</i> of any stage, Mr. + Bulstrode, as I understand it will be your first appearance <i>on</i> it.” + </p> + <p> + “In one sense the last will be true, though not altogether in another. As + a school-boy, I have often played, school-boy fashion; but this is quite a + new thing with us, to be <i>amateur</i> players.” + </p> + <p> + “It may seem ungrateful, when you are making so many efforts, principally + to amuse us young ladies, I feel convinced, to inquire if it be quite as + wise as it is novel. I must ask this, as a cousin, you know, Henry + Bulstrode, to escape entirely from the imputation of impertinence.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, Anneke Mordaunt, I am not absolutely certain that it is. Our + manners are beginning to change in this respect, however, and I can assure + you that various noblemen have permitted sports of this sort at their + seats. The custom is French, as you probably know, and whatever is French + has much vogue with us during times of peace. Sir Harry does not + altogether approve of it, and as for my lady mother, she has actually + dropped more than one discouraging hint on the subject in her letters.” + </p> + <p> + “The certain proof that you are a most dutiful son. Perhaps when Sir Harry + and Lady Bulstrode learn your great success, however, they will overlook + the field on which your laurels have been won. But our hour has come, + Mary; we have barely time to thank these gentlemen for their politeness, + and to return in season to dress. I am to enact a part myself, at dinner, + as I hope you will all remember.” + </p> + <p> + Saying this, Anneke made her curtsies in a way to preclude any offer of + seeing her home, and went her way with her silent but sensible-looking and + pretty friend. Bulstrode took my arm with an air of easy superiority, and + led the way towards his own lodgings, which happened to be in Duke Street. + Harris joined another party, making it a point to be always late at + dinner. + </p> + <p> + “That is not only one of the handsomest, but she is one of the most + charming girls in the colonies, Littlepage!” my companion exclaimed, as + soon as we had departed, speaking at the same time with an earnestness and + feeling I was far from expecting. “Were she in England, she would make one + of the first women in it, by the aid of a little fashion and training; and + very little would do too, for there is a charm in her <i>naiveté</i> that + is worth the art of fifty women of fashion.” + </p> + <p> + “Fashion is a thing that any one may want who does not happen to be in + vogue,” I answered, notwithstanding the great degree of surprise I felt. + “As for training, I can see nothing but perfection in Miss Mordaunt as she + is, and should deprecate the lessons that produced any change.” + </p> + <p> + I believe it was now Bulstrode's turn to feel surprise, for I was + conscious of his casting a keen look into my face, though I did not like + to return it. My companion was silent for a minute; then, without again + adverting to Anneke, he began to converse very sensibly on the subject of + theatres and plays. I was both amused and instructed, for Mr. Bulstrode + was an educated and a clever man; and a strange feeling came over the + spirit of my dream, even then, as I listened to his conversation. This + man, I thought, admires Anne Mordaunt, and he will probably carry her with + him to England, and obtain for her that fashion and training of which he + has just spoken. With his advantages of birth, air, fortune, education, + and military rank, he can scarcely fail in his suit, should he seriously + attempt one; and it will be no more than prudent to command my own + feelings, lest I become the hopeless victim of a serious passion. Young as + I was, all this I saw, and thus I reasoned; and when I parted from my + companion I fancied myself a much wise man than when we had met. We + separated in Duke Street, with a promise on my part to call at the Major's + lodgings half an hour later, after dressing, and walk with him to Herman + Mordaunt's door. + </p> + <p> + “It is fortunate that it is the fashion of New York to walk to a dinner + party,” said Bulstrode, as he again took my arm on our way to Crown + Street; “for these narrow streets must be excessively inconvenient for + chariots, though I occasionally see one of them. As for sedan chairs, I + detest them as things unfit for a man to ride in.” + </p> + <p> + “Many of our leading families keep carnages, and <i>they</i> seem to get + along well enough,” I answered. “Nevertheless, it is quite in fashion even + for ladies to walk. I understand that many, perhaps most of your auditors, + will walk to the play-house door this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “They tell me as much,” said Bulstrode, curling his lip, a little, in a + way I did not exactly like. “Notwithstanding, there will be many charming + creatures among them, and they shall be welcome. Well, Littlepage, I do + not despair of having you among us; for, to be candid, without wishing to + boast, I think you will find the ——th as liberal a set of + young men as there is in the service. There is a wish to have the mohairs + among us instead of shutting ourselves up altogether in scarlet. Then your + father and grandfather have both served, and that will be a famous + introduction.” + </p> + <p> + I protested my unfitness for such an amusement, never having seen such an + exhibition in my life; but to this my companion would not listen; and we + picked our way, as well as we could, through William Street, up Wall, and + then by Nassau into Crown; Herman Mordaunt owning a new house, that stood + not far from Broadway, in the latter street. This was rather in a remote + part of the town; but the situation had the advantage of good air; and, as + a place extends, it is necessary some persons should live on its skirts. + </p> + <p> + “I wish my good cousin did not live quite so much in the suburbs,” said + Bulstrode, as he knocked in a very patrician manner; “it is not altogether + convenient to go quite so much out of one's ordinary haunts, in order to + pay visits. I wonder Mr. Mordaunt came so far out of the world, to build.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet the distances of London must be much greater though <i>there</i> you + have coaches.” + </p> + <p> + “True; but not a word more on <i>this</i> subject: I would not have Anneke + fancy I ever find it far to visit <i>her</i>.” + </p> + <p> + We were the last but one; the tardy Mr. Harris making it a point always to + be the last. We found Anneke Mordaunt supported by two or three ladies of + her connection, and a party of quite a dozen assembled. As most of those + present saw each other every day, and frequently two or three times a day, + the salutations and compliments were soon over, and Herman Mordaunt began + to look about him, to see who was wanting. + </p> + <p> + “I believe everybody is here but Mr. Harris,” the father observed to his + daughter, interrupting some of Mr. Bulstrode's conversation, to let this + fact be known. “Shall we wait for him, my dear; he is usually so uncertain + and late?” + </p> + <p> + “Yet a very important man,” put in Bulstrode, “as being entitled to lead + the lady of the house to the table, in virtue of his birthright. So much + for being the fourth son of an Irish baron! Do you know Harris's father + has just been ennobled?” + </p> + <p> + This was news to the company; and it evidently much increased the doubts + of the propriety of sitting down without the young man in question. + </p> + <p> + “Failing of this son of a new Irish baron, I suppose you fancy I shall be + obliged to give my hand to the eldest son of an English baronet,” said + Anneke, smiling, so as to take off the edge of a little irony that I fancy + just glimmered in her manner. + </p> + <p> + “I wish to Heaven you <i>would</i>, Anne Mordaunt,” whispered Bulstrode, + loud enough for me to hear him, “so that the heart were its companion!” + </p> + <p> + I thought this both bold and decided; and I looked anxiously at Anneke, to + note the effect; but she evidently received it as trifling, certainly + betraying no emotion at a speech I thought so pointed. I wished she had + manifested a little resentment. Then she was so very young to be thus + importuned! + </p> + <p> + “Dinner had better be served, sir,” she calmly observed to her father. + “Mr. Harris is apt to think himself ill-treated if he do not find + everybody at table. It would be a sign his watch was wrong, and that he + had come half an hour too soon.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt nodded assent, and left his daughter's side to give the + necessary order. + </p> + <p> + “I fancy Harris will regret this,” said Bulstrode. “I wish I dared repeat + what he had the temerity to say to me on this very subject, no later than + yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Of the propriety of so doing, Mr. Bulstrode must judge for himself; + though <i>repetitions</i> of this nature are usually best avoided.” + </p> + <p> + “No, the fellow deserves it; so I will just tell you and Mr. Littlepage in + confidence. You must know, as his senior in years, and his senior officer + in the bargain, I was hinting to Harris the inexpediency of always being + so late at dinner; and here is my gentleman's answer:—'You know,' + said he, 'that excepting my lord Loudon, the Commander-in-chief, the + Governor, and a few public officers, I shall now take precedence of almost + every man here; and I find, if I go early to dinner, I shall have to hand + in all the elderly ladies, and to take my place at <i>their</i> sides; + whereas, if I go a little late, I can steal in alongside of their + daughters.' Now, on the present occasion, he will be altogether a loser, + the lady of the house not yet being quite fifty.” + </p> + <p> + “I had not given Mr. Harris credit for so much ingenuity,” said Anneke, + quietly. “But here he is to claim his rights.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, the fellow has remembered <i>your</i> age, and quite likely your <i>attractions</i>!” + </p> + <p> + Dinner was announced at that instant, and all eyes were turned on Harris, + in expectation that he would advance to lead Anneke down stairs. The young + man, even more youthful than myself, had a good deal of <i>mauvaise honte;</i> + for, though the son of an Irish peer, of two months' creation, the family + was not strictly Irish, and he had very little ambition to figure in this + manner. From what I saw of him subsequently, I do believe that nothing but + a sense of duty to his order made him respect these privileges of rank at + all, and that he would really just as soon go to a dinner-table last, as + first. In the present case, however, he was soon relieved by Herman + Mordaunt; who had been educated at home, and understood the usages of the + world very well. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” he said, “I must ask you to waive the privileges of rank in + favour of Mr. Cornelius Littlepage, to-day. This good company has met to + do honour especially to his courage and devotion to his fellow-creatures, + and he will do me the favour to hand Miss Mordaunt down stairs.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt then pointed out to the Hon. Mr. Harris, the next lady of + importance, and to Mr. Bulstrode a third; after which all the rest took + care of themselves. As for myself, I felt my face in a glow, at this + unexpected order, and scarcely dared to look at Anneke as we led the way + to the dining-room door. So much abashed was I, that I scarce touched the + tips of her slender little fingers, and a tremour was in the limb that + performed this office, the whole time it was thus employed. Of course, my + seat was next to that of the young and lovely mistress of the house, at + this banquet. + </p> + <p> + What shall I say of the dinner? It was the very first entertainment of the + sort at which I had ever been present; though I had acquired some of the + notions of town habits, on such occasions, at my aunt Legge's table. To my + surprise, there was soup; a dish that I never saw at Satanstoe, except in + the most familiar way; while here it was taken by every one, seemingly as + a matter of course. Everything was elegant, and admirably cooked. + Abundance, however, was the great feature of the feast; as I have heard it + said, is apt to be the case with most New York entertainments. + Nevertheless, I have always understood that, in the way of eating and + drinking, the American colonies have little reason to be ashamed. + </p> + <p> + “Could I have foreseen this dinner, Miss Mordaunt,” I said, when everybody + was employed, and I thought there was an opening to say something to my + beautiful neighbour; “it would have made my father very happy to have sent + a sheepshead to town, for the occasion.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke thanked me, and then we began to converse about the game. + Westchester was, and is still, famous for partridges, snipe, quails, + ducks, and meadow-larks; and I understood expatiating on such a subject, + as well as the best of them. All the Littlepages were shots; and I have + known my father bag ten brace of woodcock, among the wet thickets of + Satanstoe, of a morning; and this with merely a second class dog, and only + one. Both Bulstrode and Harris listened to what I said on this subject + with great attention, and it would soon have been the engrossing + discourse, had not Anneke pleasantly said— + </p> + <p> + “All very well, gentlemen; but you will remember that neither Miss + Wallace, nor I, shoot.” + </p> + <p> + “Except with the arrows of Cupid,” answered Bulstrode, gaily; “with these + you do so much execution <i>between you</i>,” emphasizing the words, so as + to make me look foolish, for I sat between them, “that you ought to be + condemned to hear nothing but fowling conversation for the next year.” + </p> + <p> + This produced a laugh, a little at my expense, I believe; though I could + see that Anneke blushed, while Mary Wallace smiled indifferently; but as + the healths now began, there was a truce to trifling. And a serious thing + it is, to drink to everybody by name, at a large table; serious I mean to + a new beginner. Yet, Herman Mordaunt went through it with a grace and + dignity, that I think would have been remarked at a royal banquet. The + ladies acquitted themselves admirably, omitting no one; and even Harris + felt the necessity of being particular with this indispensable part of + good-breeding. So well done was this part of the ceremony, that I declare, + I believe everybody had drunk to everybody, within five minutes after + Herman Mordaunt commenced; and it was very apparent that there was more + ease and true gaiety <i>after</i> all had got through, than there had + previously been. + </p> + <p> + But the happy period of every dinner-party, is after the cloth is removed. + With the dark polished mahogany for a back-ground, the sparkling decanters + making their rounds, the fruit and cake baskets, the very scene seems to + inspire one with a wish for gaiety. Herman Mordaunt called for toasts, as + soon as the cloth disappeared, with a view I believe of putting everybody + at ease, and to render the conversation more general. He was desired to + set the example, and immediately gave “Miss Markham,” who, as I was told, + was a single lady of forty, with whom he had carried on a little + flirtation. Anneke's turn came next, and she chose to give a sentiment, + notwithstanding all Bulstrode's remonstrances, who insisted on a + gentleman. He did not succeed, however; Anneke very steadily gave “The + Thespian corps of the——h; may it prove as successful in the + arts of peace, as in its military character it has often proved itself to + be in the art of war.” Much applause followed this toast, and Harris was + persuaded by Bulstrode to stand up, and say a few words, for the credit of + the regiment. Such a speech!—It reminded me of the horse that was + advertised as a show, in London, about this time, and which was said 'to + have its tail where its head ought to be.' But, Bulstrode clapped his + hands, and cried 'hear,' at every other word, protesting that the regiment + was honoured as much in the thanks, as in the sentiment. Harris did not + seem displeased with his own effort, and, presuming on his rank, he drank, + without being called on, “to the fair of New York; eminent alike for + beauty and wit, may they only become as merciful as they are victorious.” + </p> + <p> + “Bravo!” again cried Bulstrode,—“Harris is fairly inspired, and is + growing better and better. Had he said imminent, instead of eminent, it + would be more accurate, as their frowns are as threatening, as their + smiles are bewitching.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that to pass for <i>your</i> sentiment, Mr. Bulstrode, and are we to + drink it?” demanded Herman Mordaunt. + </p> + <p> + “By no means, sir; I have the honour to give Lady Dolly Merton.” + </p> + <p> + Who Lady Dolly was, nobody knew, I believe, though we of the colonies + always drank a titled person, who was known to be at home, with a great + deal of respectful attention, not to say veneration. Other toasts + followed, and then the ladies were asked to sing. Anneke complied, with + very little urging, as became her position, and never did I hear sweeter + strains than those she poured forth! The air was simple, but melody + itself, and the sentiment had just enough of the engrossing feeling of + woman in it, to render it interesting, without in the slightest degree + impairing its fitness for the virgin lips from which it issued. Bulstrode, + I could see, was almost entranced; and I heard him murmur “an angel, by + Heavens!” He sang, himself, a love song, full of delicacy and feeling, and + in a way to show that he had paid much attention to the art of music. + Harris sang, too, as did Mary Wallace; the former, much as he spoke; the + last plaintively, and decidedly well. Even Herman Mordaunt gave us a + strain, and my turn followed. Singing was somewhat of a <i>forte</i> with + me, and I have reason to think I made out quite as well as the best of + them. I know that Anneke seemed pleased, and I saw tears in her eyes, as I + concluded a song that was intended to produce just such an effect. + </p> + <p> + At length the youthful mistress of the house arose, reminding her father + that he had at table the principal performer of the evening, by way of a + caution, when three or four of us handed the ladies to the drawing-room + door. Instead of returning to the table, I entered the room, and Bulstrode + did the same, under the plea of its being necessary for him to drink no + more, on account of the work before him. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-13" id="linknote-13"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 13 (<a href="#linknoteref-13">return</a>)<br /> [ Mr. Cornelius Littlepage + betrays not a little of provincial admiration, as the reader will see. I + have not thought it necessary to prune these passages, their causes being + too familiar to leave any danger of their insertion's being misunderstood. + Admiration of Broadway, certainly not more than a third-class street, as + streets go in the old world, is so very common among us as to need no + apology.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-14" id="linknote-14"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 14 (<a href="#linknoteref-14">return</a>)<br /> [ The provincial admiration + of Mr. Cornelius Littlepage was not quite as much in fault, as respects + the church, as the superciliousness of our more modern tastes and opinions + may lead us to suspect. The church that was burned in 1776, was a larger + edifice than that just pulled down, and, in many respects, was its + superior.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Odd's bodikins, man, much better: use + Every man after his desert, and who shall 'scape + Whipping? use them after your own honour + And dignity: the less they deserve, the more + Merit is in your bounty.” + + <i>Hamlet</i>. +</pre> + <p> + “Harris will be <i>hors de combat</i>” Bulstrode soon observed, “unless I + can manage to get him from the table.—You know he is to play Marcia + this evening; and, though a <i>little</i> wine will give him fire and + spirit for the part, too much will impair its feminine beauties. Addison + never intended that 'the virtuous Marcia,' in towering above her sex, was + to be picked out of a kennel, or from under a table. Harris is a true + Irish peer, when claret is concerned.” + </p> + <p> + All the ladies held up their hands, and protested against Mr. Harris' + being permitted to act a travestie on their sex. As yet, no one had known + how the characters were to be cast, beyond the fact that Bulstrode himself + was to play Cato, for great care had been taken to keep the bills of the + night from being seen, in order that the audience might have the + satisfaction of finding out, who was who, for themselves. At the close of + each piece a bill was to be sent round, among the favoured few, telling + the truth. As Anneke declared that her father never locked in his guests, + and had faithfully promised to bring up everybody for coffee, in the + course of half an hour, it was determined to let things take their own + way. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, at the end of the time mentioned, Herman Mordaunt appeared, + with all the men, from the table. Harris was not tipsy, as I found was + very apt to be the case with him after dinner, but neither was he sober. + According to Bulstrode's notion, he may have had just fire enough to play + the 'virtuous Marcia.' In a few minutes he hurried the ensign off, + declaring that, like Hamlet's ghost, their hour had come. At seven, the + whole party left the house in a body to walk to the theatre. Herman + Mordaunt did not keep a proper town equipage, and, if he had, it would not + have contained a fourth of our company. In this, however, we were not + singular, as nine in ten of the audience that night, I mean nine in ten of + the gentle sex, went to the theatre on foot. + </p> + <p> + Instead of going directly down Crown Street, into Maiden Lane, which would + have been the nearest way to the theatre, we went out into Broadway, and + round by Wall Street, the walking being better, and the gutters farther + from the ladies; the centre of the street being at no great distance from + the houses, in the narrower passages of the town. We found a great many + well-dressed people moving in the same direction with ourselves. Herman + Mordaunt remarked that he had never before seen so many hoops, cardinals, + cocked hats and swords in the streets, at once, as he saw that evening. + All the carriages in town rolled past us as we went down Wall Street, and + by the time we reached William Street, the pavements resembled a + procession, more than anything else. As every one was in full dress, the + effect was pleasing, and the evening being fine, most of the gentlemen + carried their hats in their hands, in order not to disturb their curls, + thus giving to the whole the air of a sort of vast drawing-room. I never + saw a more lovely creature than Anneke Mordaunt appeared, as she led our + party, on this occasion. The powder had got a little out of her fine + auburn hair, and on the part of the head that was not concealed by a cap, + that shaded half her beautiful face, it seemed as if the rich covering + bestowed by nature was about to break out of all restraint, and shade her + bust with its exuberance. Her negligée was a rich satin, flounced in + front, while the lace that dropped from her elbows seemed as if woven by + fairies, expressly for a fairy to wear. She had paste buckles in her + shoes, and I thought I had never beheld such a foot, as was occasionally + seen peeping from beneath her dress, while she walked daintily, yet with + the grace of a queen, at my side. I do not thus describe Anneke with a + view of inducing the reader to fancy her stately and repulsive; on the + contrary, winning ease and natural grace were just as striking in her + manner, as were beauty, and sentiment, and feeling in her countenance. + More than once, as we walked side by side, did I become painfully + conscious how unworthy I was to fill the place I occupied. I believe this + humility is one of the surest signs of sincere love. + </p> + <p> + At length we reached the theatre, and were permitted to enter. All the + front seats were occupied by blacks, principally in New York liveries; + that is to say, with cuffs, collars and pocket-flaps of a cloth different + from the coat, though a few were in lace. These last belonged to the + topping families, several of which gave colours and ornaments almost as + rich as those that I understand are constantly given at home. I well + remember that two entire boxes were retained by servants, in + shoulder-knots, and much richer dresses than common, one of whom belonged + to the Lt. Governor, and the other to my Lord Loudon, who was then + Commander-In-Chief. As the company entered, these domestics disappeared, + as is usual, and we all took our seats on the benches thus retained for + us. Bulstrode's care was apparent in the manner in which he had provided + for Anneke, and her party, which, I will take it on myself to say, was one + of the most striking, for youth and good looks, that entered the house + that evening. + </p> + <p> + Great was the curiosity, and deep the feeling, that prevailed, among the + younger portion of the audience in particular, as party after party was + seated, that important evening. The house was ornamented as a theatre, and + I thought it vast in extent; though Herman Mordaunt assured me it was no + great things, in that point of view, as compared with most of the + playhouses at home. But the ornaments, and the lights, and the curtain, + the pit, the boxes the gallery, were all so many objects of intense + interest. Few of us said anything; but our eyes wandered over all with a + species of delight, that I am certain can be felt in a theatre only once. + Anneke's sweet face was a picture of youthful expectation; an expectation, + however, in which intelligence and discretion had their full share. The + orchestra was said to have an undue portion of wind instruments in it; + though I perceived ladies all over the house, including those in our own + box, returning the bows of many of the musicians, who, I was told, were <i>amateurs</i> + from the army and the drawing-rooms of the town. + </p> + <p> + At length the Commander-In-Chief and the Lt. Governor entered together, + occupying the same box, though two had been provided, their attendants + having recourse to the second. The commotion produced by these arrivals + had hardly subsided, when the curtain arose, and a new world was presented + to our view! Of the playing, I shall not venture to say much; though to me + it seemed perfection. Bulstrode gained great applause that night; and I + understand that divers gentlemen, who had either been educated at home, or + who had passed much time there, declared that his Cato would have done + credit to either of the royal theatres. His dress appeared to me to be + everything it should be; though I cannot describe it. I remember that + Syphax wore the uniform of a colonel of dragoons, and Juba, that of a + general officer; and that there was a good deal of criticism expended, and + some offence taken, because the gentlemen who played these parts came out + in wool, and with their faces blacked. It was said, in answer to these + feelings, that the characters were Africans; and that any one might see, + by casting his eyes at the gallery, that Africans are usually black, and + that they have woolly hair; a sort of proof that, I imagine, only + aggravated the offence. <a href="#linknote-15" name="linknoteref-15" + id="linknoteref-15"><small>15</small></a> Apart from this little mistake, + everything went off well, even Marcia. It is true, that some evil-inclined + person whispered that the “virtuous Marcia” was a little how-came-you-so; + but Bulstrode afterwards assured me that his condition helped him along + amazingly, and that it added a liquid lustre to his eyes, that might + otherwise have been wanting. The high-heeled shoes appeared to trouble + him; but some persons fancied it gave him a pretty tottering in his walk, + that added very much to the deception. On the whole, the piece went off + surprisingly, as I could see by Lord Loudon and the Lt. Governor, both of + whom seemed infinitely diverted. Herman Mordaunt smiled once or twice, + when he ought to have looked grave; but this I ascribed to a want of + practice, of late years, in scenic representations. He certainly was a man + of judgment, and must have known the proper moments to exhibit particular + emotions. + </p> + <p> + During the interval between the play and the farce, the actors came among + us, to receive the homage they merited, and loud were the plaudits that + were bestowed on them. Anneke's bright eyes sparkled with pleasure as she + admitted, without reserve, to Bulstrode the pleasure she had received, and + confessed she had formed no idea, hitherto, of the beauty and power of a + theatrical representation, aided as was this, by the auxiliaries of + lights, dress and scenery. It is true, the women had been a little absurd, + and the “virtuous Marcia” particularly so; but the fine sentiments of + Addison, which, though as Herman Mordaunt observed, they had all the + accuracy and all the stiffness of a pedantic age, were sufficiently + beautiful and just, to cover the delinquencies of the Hon. Mr. Harris. She + hoped the afterpiece would be of the same general character, that they + might all enjoy it as much as they had the play itself. + </p> + <p> + The other young ladies were equally decided in their praise, though it + struck me that Anneke <i>felt</i> the most, on the occasion. That the + Major had obtained a great advantage by his efforts, I could not but see; + and the folly of my having any pretensions with one who was courted by + such a rival, began to impress itself on my imagination with a force I + found painful. But the bell soon summoned away the gallant actors, in + order to dress for the farce. + </p> + <p> + The long interval that occurred between the two pieces, gave ample + opportunity for visiting one's acquaintances, and to compare opinions. I + went to my aunt's box, and found her well satisfied, though less animated + than the younger ladies, in the expression of her pleasure. My uncle was + altogether himself; good-natured, but not disposed to award any indiscreet + amount of praise. + </p> + <p> + “Pretty well for boys, Corny,” he said, “though the youngster who acted + Marcia had better been at school. I do not know his name, but he + completely took all the virtue out of Marcia. He must have studied her + character from some of the ladies who follow the camp.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear uncle, how differently you think from all in our box! That + gentleman is the Hon. Mr. Harris, who is only eighteen, and has a pair of + colours in the ——th, and is a son of Lord Ballybannon, or + Bally-something else, and is said to have the softest voice in the army!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and the softest head, too, I'll answer for it. I tell you, Corny, the + Hon. Mr. Ballybilly, who is only eighteen, and has a pair of colours in + the ——th, and the softest voice in the army, had better been + at school, instead of undermining the virtue of the 'virtuous Marcia,' as + he has so obviously done. Bulstrode did well enough; capitally well, for + an amateur, and must be a first-rate fellow. By the way, Jane”—that + was my aunt's name—“they tell me, he is likely to marry that + exceedingly pretty daughter of Herman Mordaunt, and make her Lady + Bulstrode, one of these days.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, Mr. Legge?—Anne Mordaunt is as sweet a girl as there is in + the colony, and is very respectably connected. They even say the Mordaunts + are of a high family at home. Mary Wallace told me that Herman Mordaunt + and Sir Henry Bulstrode are themselves related; and you know, my dear, how + intimate the Mordaunts and the Wallaces are?” + </p> + <p> + “Not I;—I know nothing of their intimacies, though I dare say it may + be all true. Mordaunt's father was an English gentleman of some family, I + have always heard, though he was as poor as a church-mouse, when he + married one of our Dutch heiresses; and as for Herman Mordaunt himself, he + proved he had not lost the instinct by marrying another, though she did + not happen to be Dutch. Here comes Anneke to inherit it all, and I'll + answer for it that care is had that she shall marry an heir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Bulstrode is an heir, and the eldest son of a baronet. I am + always pleased when one of our girls makes a good connection at home, for + it does the colony credit. It is an excellent thing, Corny, to have our + interest well sustained at home—especially before the Privy Council, + they tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am not,” answered my uncle. “I think it more to the credit of the + colony for its young women to take up with its young men, and its young + men with its young women. I wish Anne Mordaunt had been substituted for + the Hon. Ballyshannon to-night. She would have made a thousand times + better 'virtuous Marcia.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely would not have had a young lady of respectability appear in + public, in this way, Mr. Legge.” + </p> + <p> + My uncle said something to this, for he seldom let “Jane” get the better + of it for want of an answer; but as I left the box, I did not hear his + reply. It seemed then to be settled, in the minds of most persons, that + Bulstrode was to marry Anneke! I cannot describe the new shock this + opinion gave me; but it seemed to make me more fully sensible of the depth + of the impression that had been made on myself, in the intercourse of a + single week. The effect was such that I did not return to the party I had + left, but sought a seat in a distant part of the theatre, though one in + which I could distinctly see those I had abandoned. + </p> + <p> + The Beaux Stratagem soon commenced, and Bulstrode was again seen in the + character of Scrub. Those who were most familiar with the stage, + pronounced his playing to be excellent—far better in the footman + than in the Roman Senator. The play itself struck me as being as broad and + coarse as could be tolerated; but as it had a reputation at home, where it + had a great name, our matrons did not dare to object to it. I was glad to + see the smiles soon disappear from Anneke's face, however, and to discover + that <i>she</i> found no pleasure in scenes so unsuited to her sex and + years. The short, quick glances that were exchanged between Anneke and + Mary Wallace, did not escape me, and the manner in which they both rose, + as soon as the curtain dropped, told quite plainly the haste they were in + to quit the theatre. I reached their box-door in time to assist them + through the crowd. + </p> + <p> + Not a word was said by any of us, until we reached the street, where two + or three of Miss Mordaunt's female friends became loud in the expression + of their satisfaction. Neither Anneke nor Mary Wallace said anything, and + so well did I understand the nature of their feelings, that I made no + allusion whatever to the farce. As for the others, they did but chime in + with what appeared to be the common opinion, and were to be pitied rather + than condemned. It was perhaps the more excusable in them to imagine such + a play right, inasmuch as they must have known it was much extolled at + home, a fact that gave any custom a certain privilege in the colonies. A + mother country has much of the same responsibility as a natural mother, + herself, since its opinions and example are apt to be quoted in the one + case by the dependant, in justification of its own opinions and conduct, + as it is by the natural offspring in the other. + </p> + <p> + I fancy, notwithstanding, this sort of responsibility gives the ministers + or people of England very little trouble, since I never could discover any + sensitiveness to their duties on this score. We all went in at Herman + Mordaunt's, after walking to the house as we had walked from it, and were + made to take a light supper, including some delicious chocolate. Just as + we sat down to table, Bulstrode joined us, to receive the praises he had + earned, and to enjoy his triumph. He got a seat directly opposite to mine, + on Anneke's left hand, and soon began to converse. + </p> + <p> + “In the first place,” he cried, “you must all admit that Tom Harris did + wonders to-night as Miss Marcia Cato. I had my own trouble with the rogue, + for there is no precedent for a tipsy Marcia; but we managed to keep him + straight, and that was the nicest part of my management, let me assure + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” observed Herman Mordaunt, drily; “I should think keeping Tom Harris + straight, after dinner, an exploit of no little difficulty, but a task + that would demand a very judicious management, indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “You were pleased to express your satisfaction with the performance of + Cato, Miss Mordaunt,” said Bulstrode, in a very deferential and solicitous + manner; “but I question if the entertainment gave you as much pleasure?” + </p> + <p> + “It certainly did not. Had the representation ended with the first piece, + I am afraid I should too much regret that we are without a regular stage; + but the farce will take off much of the keenness of such regrets.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear I understand you, cousin Anne, and greatly regret that we did not + make another choice,” returned Bulstrode, with a humility that was not + usual in his manner, even when addressing Anneke Mordaunt; “but I can + assure you the play has great vogue at home; and the character of Scrub, + in particular, has usually been a prodigious favourite. I see by your + look, however, that enough has been said; but after having done so much to + amuse this good company, to-night, I shall feel authorised to call on + every lady present, at least for a song, as soon as the proper moment + arrives. Perhaps I have a right to add, a sentiment, and a toast.” + </p> + <p> + And songs, and toasts, and sentiments, we had, as usual, the moment we had + done eating. It was, and indeed <i>is</i>, rather more usual to indulge in + this innocent gaiety after supper, than after dinner, with us; and that + night everybody entered into the feeling of the moment with spirit. Herman + Mordaunt gave “Miss Markham,” as he had done at dinner, and this with an + air so determined, as to prove no one else would ever be got out of <i>him</i>. + </p> + <p> + “There is a compact between Miss Markham and myself, to toast each other + for the remainder of our lives,” cried the master of the house, laughing; + “and we are each too honest ever to violate it.” + </p> + <p> + “But Miss Mordaunt is under no such engagement,” put in a certain Mr. + Benson, who had manifested much interest in the beautiful young mistress + of the house throughout the day; “and I trust we shall not be put off by + any such excuse from her.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not in rule to ask two of the same race for toasts in succession,” + answered Herman Mordaunt. “There is Mr. Bulstrode dying to give us another + English belle.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart,” said Bulstrode, gaily. “This time it shall be Lady + Betty Boddington.” + </p> + <p> + “Married or single, Bulstrode?” inquired Billings, as I thought with some + little point. + </p> + <p> + “No matter which, so long as she be a beauty and a toast. I believe it is + now my privilege to call on a lady, and I beg a gentleman from Miss + Wallace.” + </p> + <p> + There had been an expression of pained surprise, at the trifling between + Billings and Bulstrode, in Anneke's sweet countenance; for, in the + simplicity of our provincial habits, we of the colonies did not think it + exactly in rule for the single to toast the married, or <i>vice versa</i>; + but the instant her friend was thus called on, it changed for a look of + gentle concern. Mary Wallace manifested no concern, however, but gave “Mr. + Francis Fordham.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Frank Fordham, with all my heart,” cried Herman Mordaunt. “I hope he + will return to his native country as straight-forward, honest, and good as + he left it.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Fordham is then abroad?” inquired Bulstrode. “I thought the name new + to me.” + </p> + <p> + “If being at home can be called being abroad. He is reading law at the + Temple.” + </p> + <p> + This was the answer of Mary Wallace, who looked as if she felt a friendly + interest in the young Templar, but no more. She now called on Dirck for + his lady. Throughout the whole of that day, Dirck's voice had hardly been + heard; a reserve that comported well enough with his youth and established + diffidence. This appeal, however, seemed suddenly to arouse all that there + was of manhood in him; and that was not a little, I can tell the reader, + when there was occasion to use it. Dirck's nature was honesty itself; and + he felt that the appeal was too direct, and the occasion too serious, to + admit of duplicity. He loved but one, esteemed but one, felt for one only; + and it was not in his nature to cover his preference by any attempt at + deception. After colouring to the ears, appearing distressed, he made an + effort, and pronounced the name of—“Anneke Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + A common laugh rewarded this blunder; common with all but the fair + creature who had extorted this involuntary tribute, and myself, who knew + Dirck's character too well not to understand how very much he must be in + earnest thus to lay bare the most cherished secret of his heart. The mirth + continued some time, Herman Mordaunt appearing to be particularly pleased, + and applauding his kinsman's directness with several 'bravos' very + distinctly uttered. As for Anneke, I saw she looked touched, while she + looked concerned, and as if she would be glad to have the thing undone. + </p> + <p> + “After all, Dirck, much as I admire your spirit and plain dealing, boy,” + cried Herman Mordaunt, “Miss Wallace can never let such a toast pass. She + will insist on having another.” + </p> + <p> + “I!—I protest I am well pleased with it, and ask for no other,” + exclaimed the lady in question. “No toast can be more agreeable to me than + Anneke Mordaunt, and I particularly like the quarter from which this + comes.” + </p> + <p> + “If friends can be trusted in a matter of this nature,” put in Bulstrode, + with a little pique, “Mr. Follock has every reason to be contented. Had I + known, however, that the customs of New York allowed a lady who is present + to be toasted, that gentleman would not have had the merit of being the + first to make this discovery.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor is it,” said Herman Mordaunt; “and Dirck must hunt up another to + supply my daughter's place.” + </p> + <p> + But no other was forthcoming from the stores of Dirck Follock's mind. Had + he a dozen names in reserve, not one of them would he have produced under + circumstances that might seem like denying his allegiance to the girl + already given; but he <i>could</i> not name any other female. So, after + some trifling, the company attributing Dirck's hesitation to his youth and + ignorance of the world, abandoned the attempt, desiring him to call on + Anneke herself for a toast in turn. + </p> + <p> + “<i>Cousin</i> Dirck Van Valkenburgh,” said Anneke, with the greater + self-possession and ease of her sex, though actually my friend's junior by + more than two years; laying some emphasis, at the same time, on the word + <i>cousin</i>. + </p> + <p> + “There!” exclaimed Dirck, looking exultingly at Bulstrode; “you see, + gentlemen and ladies, that <i>it</i> is permitted to toast a person + present, if you happen to respect and esteem that person!” + </p> + <p> + “By which, sir, we are to understand how much Miss Mordaunt respects and + esteems Mr. Dirck Van Valkenburgh,” answered Bulstrode gravely. “I am + afraid there is only too much justice in an opinion that might, at the + first blush, seem to savour of self-love.” + </p> + <p> + “An imputation I am far from denying,” returned Anneke, with a steadiness + that showed wonderful self-command, did she really return any of Dirck's + attachment. “My kinsman gives me as his toast, and I give him as mine. Is + there anything unnatural in that?” + </p> + <p> + Here there was an outbreak of raillery at Anneke's expense, which the + young lady bore with a calmness and composure that at first astonished me. + But when I came to reflect that she had been virtually at the head of her + father's house for several years, and that she had always associated with + persons older than herself, it appeared more natural; for it is certain we + can either advance or retard the character by throwing a person into + intimate association with those who, by their own conversation, manners, + or acquirements, are most adapted for doing either. In a few minutes the + interruption was forgotten by those who had no interest in the subject, + and the singing commenced. I had obtained so much credit by my attempt at + dinner, that I had the extreme gratification of being asked to sing + another song by Anneke herself. Of course I complied, and I thought the + company seemed pleased. As for my young hostess, I knew she looked more + gratified with my song than with the afterpiece, and that I felt to be + something. Dirck had an occasion to renew a little of the ground lost by + the toast, for he sang a capital comic song in Low Dutch. It is true, not + half the party understood him, but the other half laughed until the tears + rolled down their cheeks, and there was something so droll in my friend's + manner, that everybody was delighted. The clocks struck twelve before we + broke up. + </p> + <p> + I staid in town but a day or two longer, meeting my new acquaintances + every day, and sometimes twice a-day, however, on Trinity Church Walk. I + paid visits of leave-taking with a heavy heart, and most of all to Anneke + and her father. + </p> + <p> + “I understood from Follock,” said Herman Mordaunt, when I explained the + object of my call, “that you are to leave town to-morrow. Miss Mordaunt + and her friend, Miss Wallace, go to Lilacsbush this afternoon; for it is + high time to look after the garden and the flowers, many of which are now + in full bloom. I shall join them in the evening and I propose that you + young men, take a late breakfast with us, on your way to Westchester. A + cup of coffee before you start, and getting into your saddle at six, will + bring all right. I promise you that you shall be on the road again by one, + which will give you plenty of time to reach Satanstoe before dark.” + </p> + <p> + I looked at Anneke, and fancied that the expression of her countenance was + favourable. Dirck left everything to me, and I accepted the invitation. + This arrangement shortened my visit in Crown Street, and I left the house + with a lighter heart than that with which I had entered it. It is always + so agreeable to get an unpleasant duty deferred! + </p> + <p> + Next day Dirck and I were in the saddle at six precisely, and we rode + through the streets just as the blacks were washing down their stoops and + side-walks; though there were but very few of the last, in my youth. This + is a commodious improvement, and one that it is not easy to see how the + ladies could dispense with, and which is now getting to be pretty common; + all the new streets, I see, being provided with the convenience. + </p> + <p> + It was a fine May morning, and the air was full of the sweet fragrance of + the lilac, in particular, as we rode into the country. Just as we got into + the Bowery Lane, a horseman was seen walking out of one of the by-streets, + and coming our way. He no sooner caught sight of two travellers going in + his own direction, than he spurred forward to join us; being alone, and + probably wishing company. As it would have been churlish to refuse to + travel in company with one thus situated, we pulled up, walking our horses + until the stranger joined us; when, to our surprise, it turned out to be + Jason Newcome. The pedagogue was as much astonished when he recognised us, + as we were in recognising him; and I believe he was a little disappointed; + for Jason was so fond of making acquaintances, that it was always a + pleasure to him to be thus employed. It appeared that he had been down on + the island to visit a relative, who had married and settled in that + quarter; and this was the reason we had not met since the morning of the + affair of the lion. Of course we trotted on together, neither glad nor + sorry at having this particular companion. + </p> + <p> + I never could explain the process by means of which Jason wound his way + into everybody's secrets. It is true he had no scruples about asking + questions; putting those which most persons would think forbidden by the + usages of society, with as little hesitation as those which are + universally permitted. The people of New England have a reputation this + way; and I remember to have heard Mr. Worden account for the practice in + the following way: Everything and everybody was brought under rigid church + government among the Puritans; and, when a whole community gets the notion + that it is to sit in judgment on every act of one of its members, it is + quite natural that it should extend that right to an inquiry into all his + affairs. One thing is certain; our neighbours of Connecticut do assume a + control over the acts and opinions of individuals that is not dreamed of + in New York; and I think it very likely that the practice of pushing + inquiry into private things, has grown up under this custom. + </p> + <p> + As one might suppose, Jason, whenever baffled in an attempt to obtain + knowledge by means of inquiries, more or less direct, sought to advance + his ends through conjectures; taking those that were the most plausible, + if any such could be found, but putting up with those that had not even + this questionable recommendation, if nothing better offered. He was, + consequently, for ever falling into the grossest errors, for, necessarily + making his conclusions on premises drawn from his own ignorance and + inexperience, he was liable to fall into serious mistakes at the very + outset. Nor was this the worst; the tendency of human nature not being + very directly to charity, the harshest constructions were sometimes + blended with the most absurd blunders, in his mind, and I have known him + to be often guilty of assertions, that had no better foundation than these + conjectures, which might have subjected him to severe legal penalties. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion, Jason was not long in ascertaining where we were + bound. This was done in a manner so characteristic and ingenious, that I + will attempt to relate it. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you're out early, this morning, gentlemen,” exclaimed Jason, + affecting surprise. “What in natur' has started you off before breakfast?” + </p> + <p> + “So as to be certain not to lose our suppers at Satanstoe, this evening,” + I answered. + </p> + <p> + “Suppers? why, you will almost reach home (Jason <i>would</i> call this + word <i>hum</i>) by dinner-time; that is, your York dinner-time. Perhaps + you mean to call by the way?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps we do, Mr. Newcorne; there are many pleasant families between + this and Satanstoe.” + </p> + <p> + “I know there be. There's the great Mr. Van Cortlandt's at Yonker's; + perhaps you mean to stop there?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; we have no such intention.” + </p> + <p> + “Then there's the rich Count Philips's, on the river; that would be no + great matter out of the way?” + </p> + <p> + “It's farther than we intend to turn.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! so you <i>do</i> intend to turn a bit aside! Well, there's that Mr. + Mordaunt, whose daughter you pulled out of the lion's paws;—he has a + house near King's-Bridge, called Lilacsbush.” + </p> + <p> + “And how did you ascertain that, Jason?” + </p> + <p> + “By asking. Do you think I would let such a thing happen, and not inquire + a little about the young lady? Nothing is ever lost by putting a few + questions, and inquiring round; and I did not forget the rule in her + case.” + </p> + <p> + “And you ascertained that the young lady's father has a place called + Lilacsbush, in this neighbourhood?” + </p> + <p> + “I did; and a queer York fashion it is to give a house a name, just as you + would a Christian being; that must be a Roman Catholic custom, and some + way connected with idolatry.” + </p> + <p> + “Out of all doubt. It is far better to say, for instance, that we are + going to breakfast at Mr. Mordaunt's-es-es, than to say we intend to stop + at Lilacsbush.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you be, be you? Well, I thought it would turn out that some such + place must have started you off so early. It will be a desperate late + breakfast, Corny!” + </p> + <p> + “It will be at ten o'oclock, Jason, and that is rather later than common; + but our appetites will be so much the better.” + </p> + <p> + To this Jason assented, and then commenced a series of manoeuvres to be + included in the party. This we did not dare to do, however, and all + Jason's hints were disregarded, until, growing desperate by our evasions, + he plumply proposed to go along, and we as plumply told him we would take + no such liberty with a man of Herman Mordaunt's years, position and + character. I do not know that we should have hesitated so much had we + considered Jason a gentleman, but this was impossible. The custom of the + colony admitted of great freedom in this respect, being very different + from what it is at home, by all accounts, in these particulars; but there + was always an understanding that the persons one brought with him should + be of a certain stamp and class in life; recommendations to which Jason + Newcome certainly had no claim. + </p> + <p> + The case was getting to be a little embarrassing, when the appearance of + Herman Mordaunt himself, fortunately removed the difficulty. Jason was not + a man to be thrown off very easily; but here was one who had the power, + and who showed the disposition to set things right. Herman Mordaunt had + ridden down the road a mile or two to meet us, intending to lead us by a + private and shorter way to his residence, than that which was already + known to us. He no sooner saw that Jason was of our company, than he asked + that as a favour, which our companion would very gladly have accepted as a + boon. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-15" id="linknote-15"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 15 (<a href="#linknoteref-15">return</a>)<br /> [ In England, Othello is + usually played as a black, while in America he is played as a nondescript; + or of no colour that is ordinarily seen. It is not clear that England is + nearer right than America, however; the Moor not being a negro, any more + than he is of the colour of a dried herring.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I question'd Love, whose early ray + So heavenly bright appears; + And love, in answer, seem'd to say, + His light was dimm'd by tears.” + + HEBER. +</pre> + <p> + It was not long after the explanation occurred, as respects Jason, and the + invitation was given to include him in our party, before Herman Mordaunt + opened a gate, and led the way into the fields. A very tolerable road + conducted us through some woods, to the heights, and we soon found + ourselves on an eminence, that overlooked a long reach of the Hudson, + extending from Haverstraw, to the north, as far as Staten Island, to the + south; a distance of near forty miles. On the opposite shore, rose the + wall-like barrier of the Palisadoes, lifting the table-land, on their + summits, to an elevation of several hundred feet. The noble river, itself, + fully three-quarters of a mile in width, was unruffled by a breath of air, + lying in one single, extended, placid sheet, under the rays of a bright + sun, resembling molten silver. I scarce remember a lovelier morning; + everything appearing to harmonize with the glorious but tranquil grandeur + of the view, and the rich promises of a bountiful nature. The trees were + mostly covered with the beautiful clothing of a young verdure; the birds + had mated, and were building in nearly every tree; the wild-flowers + started up beneath the hoofs of our horses; and every object, far and + near, seemed, to my young eyes, to be attuned to harmony and love. + </p> + <p> + “This is a favourite ride of mine, in which Anneke often accompanies me,” + said Herman Mordaunt, as we gained the commanding eminence I have + mentioned. “My daughter is a spirited horse-woman, and is often my + companion in these morning rides. She and Mary Wallace should be somewhere + on the hills, at this moment, for they promised to follow me, as soon as + they could dress for the saddle.” + </p> + <p> + A cry of something like wild delight burst out of Dirck, and the next + moment he was galloping away for an adjoining ridge, on the top of which + the beautiful forms of the two girls were just then visible; embellished + by neatly-fitting habits, and beavers with drooping feathers. I pointed + out these charming objects to Herman Mordaunt, and followed my friend, at + half-speed. In a minute or two the parties had joined. + </p> + <p> + Never had I seen Anneke Mordaunt so perfectly lovely, as she appeared that + morning. The exercise and air had deepened a bloom that was always rich; + and her eyes received new lustre from the glow on her cheeks. Though + expected, I thought she received us as particularly acceptable guests; + while Mary Wallace manifested more than an usual degree of animation, in + her reception. Jason was not forgotten, but was acknowledged as an old + acquaintance, and was properly introduced to the friend. + </p> + <p> + “You frequently take these rides, Mr. Mordaunt tells me,” I said, reining + my horse to the side of that of Anneke's, as the whole party moved on; + “and I regret that Satanstoe is so distant, as to prevent our oftener + meeting of a morning. We have many noted horse-women, in Westchester, who + would be proud of such an acquisition.” + </p> + <p> + “I know several ladies, on your side of Harlem river” Anneke answered, + “and frequently ride in their company; but none so distant as any in your + immediate neighbourhood. My father tells me, he used often to shoot over + the fields of Satanstoe, when a youth; and still speaks of your birds with + great affection.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe our fathers were once brother-sportsmen. Mr. Bulstrode has + promised to come and imitate their good example. Now you have had time to + reflect on the plays you have seen, do you still feel the same interest in + such representations as at first?” + </p> + <p> + “I only wish there was not so much to condemn. I think Mr. Bulstrode might + have reached eminence as a player, had not fortune put it, in one sense, + beyond his reach, as an elder son, and a man of family.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bulstrode, they tell me, is not only the heir of an old baronetcy, + but of a large fortune?” + </p> + <p> + “Such are the facts, I believe. Do you not think it creditable to him, Mr. + Littlepage, that one so situated, should come so far to serve his king and + country, in a rude war like this of our colonies?” + </p> + <p> + I was obliged to assent, though I heartily wished that Anneke's manner had + been less animated and sincere, as she put the question. Still, I hardly + knew what to think of her feelings towards that gentleman; for, otherwise, + she always heard him named with a calmness and self-possession that I had + observed was not shared by all her young companions, when there was + occasion to allude to the gay and insinuating soldier. I need scarcely + say, it was no disadvantage to Mr. Bulstrode to be the heir of a + baronetcy, in an English colony. Somehow or other, we are a little apt to + magnify such accidental superiority, at a distance from home; and I <i>have</i> + heard Englishmen, themselves, acknowledge that a baronet was a greater + man, in New York, than a duke was in London. These were things, that + passed through my mind, as I rode along at Anneke's side; though I had the + discretion not to give utterance of my thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “Herman Mordaunt rode in advance, with Jason; and he led the party, by + pretty bridle-paths, along the heights for nearly two miles, occasionally + opening a gate, without dismounting, until he reached a point that + overlooked Lilacsbush, which was soon seen, distant from us less than half + a mile. + </p> + <p> + “Here we are, on my own domain,” he said, as he pulled up to let us join + him; “that last gate separating me from my nearest neighbour south. These + hills are of no great use, except as early pastures, though they afford + many beautiful views.” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard it predicted,” I remarked, “that the time would come, some + day, when the banks of the Hudson would contain many such seats as that of + the Philipses, at Yonkers, and one or two more like it, that I am told are + now standing above the Highlands.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite possibly; it is not easy to foretell what may come to pass in such + a country. I dare say, that in time, both towns and seats will be seen on + the banks of the Hudson, and a powerful and numerous nobility to occupy + the last. By the way, Mr. Littlepage, your father and my friend Col. + Follock have been making a valuable acquisition in lands, I hear; having + obtained a patent for an extensive estate, somewhere in the neighbourhood + of Albany?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not so very extensive, sir, there being only some forty thousand + acres of it, altogether; nor is it very near Albany, by what I can learn, + since it must lie at a distance of some forty miles, or more, from that + town. Next winter, however, Dirck and myself are to go in search of the + land, when we shall learn all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we may meet in that quarter of the country. I have affairs of + importance at Albany, which have been too long neglected; and it has been + my intention to pass some months at the north, next season; and early in + the season, too. We may possibly meet in the woods.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been at Albany, I suppose, Mr. Mordaunt?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite often, sir; the distance is so great, that one has not much + inducement to go there, unless carried by affairs, however, as has been my + case. I was at Albany before my marriage, and have had various occasions + to visit it since.” + </p> + <p> + “My father was there, when a soldier; and he tells me it is a part of the + province well worth seeing. At all events, I shall encounter the risk and + fatigue next season; for it is useful to young persons to see the world. + Dirck and myself may make the campaign, should there be one in that + direction.” + </p> + <p> + I fancied Anneke manifested some interest in this conversation; but we + rode on, and soon alighted at the door of Lilacsbush. Bulstrode was not in + the way, and I had the supreme pleasure of helping Miss Mordaunt to + alight, when we paused a moment before entering the house, to examine the + view. I have given the reader some idea of the general appearance of the + place; but it was necessary to approach it, in order to form a just + conception of its beauties. As its name indicated, the lawn, house, and + out-buildings were all garnished or buried in lilacs, the whole of which + were then in full blossom. The flowers filled the air with a species of + purple light, that cast a warm and soft radiance even on the glowing face + of Anneke, as she pointed out to me the magical effect. I know no flower + that does so much to embellish a place, as the lilac, on a large scale, + common as it is, and familiar as we have become with its hues and its + fragrance. + </p> + <p> + “We enjoy the month our lilacs are out, beyond any month in the year,” + said Anneke, smiling at my surprise and delight; “and we make it a point + to pass most of it here. You will at least own, Mr. Littlepage, that + Lilacsbush is properly named.” + </p> + <p> + “The effect is more like enchantment than anything else!” I cried. “I did + not know that the simple, modest lilac could render anything so very + beautiful!” + </p> + <p> + “Simplicity and modesty are such charms in themselves, sir, as to be + potent allies,” observed the sensible but taciturn Mary Wallace. + </p> + <p> + To this I assented, of course, and we all followed Mr. Mordaunt into the + house. I was as much delighted with the appearance of things in the + interior of Lilacsbush, as I had been with the exterior. Everywhere, it + seemed to me, I met with the signs of Anneke's taste and skill. I do not + wish the reader to suppose that the residence itself was of the very first + character and class, for this it could not lay claim to be. Still, it was + one of those staid, story-and-a-half dwellings, in which most of our first + families were, and are content to dwell, in the country; very much + resembling the good old habitation at Satanstoe in these particulars. The + furniture, however, was of a higher town-finish than we found it necessary + to use; and the little parlour in which we breakfasted was a model for an + eating-room. The buffets in the corners were so well polished that one + might see his face in them; the cellarets were ornamented with plated + hinges, locks, etc., and the table itself shone like a mirror. I know not + how it was, but the china appeared to me richer and neater than common + under Anneke's pretty little hand; while the massive and highly-finished + plate of the breakfast service, was such as could be wrought only in + England. In a word, while everything appeared rich and respectable, there + was a certain indescribable air of comfort, gentility, and neatness about + the whole, that impressed me in an unusual manner. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Littlepage tells me, Anneke,” observed Herman Mordaunt, while we were + at breakfast, “that he intends to make a journey to the north, next + winter, and it may be our good fortune to meet him there. The ——th + expects to be ordered up as high as Albany, this summer; and we may all + renew our songs and jests, with Bulstrode and his gay companions, among + the Dutchmen.” + </p> + <p> + I was charmed with this prospect of meeting Anneke Mordaunt at the north, + and took occasion to say as much; though I was afraid it was in an awkward + and confused manner. + </p> + <p> + “I heard as much as this, sir, while we were riding,” answered the + daughter. “I hope cousin Dirck is to be of the party?” + </p> + <p> + Cousin Dirck assured her he was, and we discussed in anticipation the + pleasure it must give to old acquaintances to meet so far from home. Not + one of us, Herman Mordaunt excepted, had ever been one hundred miles from + his or her birth-place, as was ascertained on comparing notes. I was the + greatest traveller; Princeton lying between eighty and ninety miles from + Satanstoe, as the road goes. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I come nearer to it than any of you,” put in Jason, “for my late + journey on the island must have carried me nearly that far from Danbury. + But, ladies, I can assure you, a traveller has many opportunities for + learning useful things, as I know by the difference there is between York + and Connecticut.” + </p> + <p> + “And which do you prefer, Mr. Newcome?” asked Anneke, with a somewhat + comical expression about her laughing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “That is hardly a fair question, Miss;” no reproof could break Jason of + this vulgarism, “since it might make enemies for a body to speak all of + his mind in such matters. There are comparisons that should never be made, + on account of circumstances that overrule all common efforts. New York is + a great colony—a very great colony, Miss; but it was once Dutch, as + everybody knows, begging Mr. Follock's pardon; and it must be confessed + Connecticut has, from the first, enjoyed almost unheard-of advantages, in + the moral and religious character of her people, the excellence of her + lands, and the purity”—Jason called this word “poority;” but that + did not alter the sentiment—though I must say, once for all, it is + out of my power to spell every word as this man saw fit to pronounce it—“of + her people and church.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt looked up with surprise, at this speech; but Dirck and I + had heard so many like it, that we saw nothing out of the way on this + particular occasion. As for the ladies, they were too well-bred to glance + at each other, as girls sometimes will; but I could see that each thought + the speaker a very singular person. + </p> + <p> + “You find, then, a difference in customs between the two colonies, sir?” + said Herman Mordaunt. + </p> + <p> + “A vast difference truly, sir. Now there was a little thing happened about + your daughter, 'Squire Mordaunt, the very first time I saw her”—the + present was the <i>second</i> interview—“that could no more have + happened in Connecticut, than the whole of the province could be put into + that tea-cup.” + </p> + <p> + “To my daughter, Mr. Newcome!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, to your own daughter; Miss, that sits there looking as innocent + as if it had never come to pass.” + </p> + <p> + “This is so extraordinary, sir, that I must beg an explanation.” + </p> + <p> + “You may well call it extr'ornary, for extr'ornary it would be called all + over Connecticut; and I'll never give up that York, if this be a York + usage, is or can be right in such a matter, at least.” + </p> + <p> + “I entreat you to be more explicit, Mr. Newcome.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, you must know, Corny, here, and I, and Dirck there, went in to + see the lion, about which no doubt you've heard so much, and Corny paid + for Miss's ticket Well, <i>that</i> was all right enough, but——” + </p> + <p> + “Surely, Anneke, you have not forgotten to return to Mr. Littlepage the + money!” + </p> + <p> + “Listen patiently, my dear sir, and you will get the whole story, my + delinquencies and debts included, if any there are.” + </p> + <p> + “That's just what she did, Squire Mordaunt, and I maintain there is not + the man in all Connecticut that would have taken it. If ladies can't be + treated to sights, and other amusements, I should like to know who is to + be so.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt, at first, looked gravely at the speaker, but catching the + expression of our eyes he answered with the tact of a perfectly well-bred + man, as he certainly was, on all occasions that put him to the proof— + </p> + <p> + “You must overlook Miss Mordaunt's adhering to her own customs, Mr. + Newcome, on account of her youth, and her little knowledge of any world + but that immediately around her. When she has enjoyed an opportunity of + visiting Danbury, no doubt she will improve by the occasion.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Corny, sir—think of Corny's falling into such a mistake!” + </p> + <p> + “As for Mr. Littlepage, I must suppose he labours under somewhat of the + same disadvantage. We are less gallant here than you happen to be in + Connecticut; hence our inferiority. At some future day, perhaps, when + society shall have made a greater progress among us, our youths will come + to see the impropriety of permitting the fair sex to pay for anything, + even their own ribands. I have long known, sir, that you of New England + claim to treat your women better than they are treated in any other + portion of the inhabited world, and it must be owing to that circumstance + hat they enjoy the advantage of being 'treated' for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + With this concession Jason was apparently content. How much of this + provincial feeling, arising from provincial ignorance, have I seen since + that time! It is certain that our fellow-subjects of the eastern provinces + are not addicted to hiding their lights under bushels, but make the most + of all their advantages. That they are superior to us of York, in some + respects, I am willing enough to allow; but there are certainly points on + which this superiority is far less apparent. As for Jason, he was entirely + satisfied with the answer of Herman Mordaunt, and often alluded to the + subject afterwards, to my prejudice, and with great self-complacency. To + be sure, it is a hard lesson to beat into the head of the self-sufficient + colonist, that his own little corner of the earth does not contain all + that is right, and just, and good, and refined. + </p> + <p> + I left Lilacsbush, that day, deeply in love. I hold it to be unmanly to + attempt to conceal it. Anneke had made a lively impression on me from the + very first, but that impression had now gone deeper than the imagination, + and had very sensibly touched the heart. Perhaps it was necessary to see + her in the retirement of the purely domestic circle, to give all her + charms their just ascendency. While in town, I had usually met her in + crowds, surrounded by admirers or other young persons of her own sex, and + there was less opportunity for viewing the influence of nature and the + affections on her manner. With Mary Wallace at her side, however, there + was always one on whom she could exhibit just enough of these feelings to + bring out the loveliness of her nature without effort or affectation. Anne + Mordaunt never spoke to her friend without a change appearing in her + manner. Affection thrilled in the tones of her voice, confidence beamed in + her eye, and esteem and respect were to be gathered from the expectation + and deference that shone in her countenance. Mary Wallace was two years + the oldest, and these years taken in connection with her character, + entitled her to receive this tribute from her nearest associate; but all + these feelings flowed spontaneously from the heart, for never was an + intercourse between two of the sex more thoroughly free from acting. + </p> + <p> + It was a proof that passion was getting the mastery over me, that I now + forgot Dirck, his obvious attachment, older claims, and possible success. + I know not how it was, or why it was, but it was certain that Herman + Mordaunt had a great regard for Dirck Van Valkenburgh. The affinity may + have counted for something, and it was possible that the father was + already weighing the advantages that might accrue from such a connection. + Col. Follock had the reputation of being rich, as riches were then counted + among us; and the young fellow himself, in addition to a fine manly + figure, that was fast developing itself into the frame of a youthful + Hercules, had an excellent temper, and a good reputation. Still, this idea + never troubled me. Of Dirck I had no fears, while Bulstrode gave me great + uneasiness, from the first. I saw all his advantages, may have even + magnified them; while those of my near and immediate friend, gave me no + trouble whatever. It is possible, had Dirck presented himself oftener, or + more distinctly to my mind, a feeling of magnanimity might have induced me + to withdraw in time, and leave him a field to which he had the earliest + claim. But, after the morning at Lilacsbush, it was too late for any such + sacrifice on my part; and I rode away from the house, at the side of my + friend, as forgetful of his interest in Anneke, as if he had never felt + any. Magnanimity and I had no further connection in relation to my + pretensions to Anneke Mordaunt. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” commenced Jason, as soon as we were fairly in the saddle, “these + Mordaunts are even a notch above your folks, Corny? There was more silver + vessels in that room where we ate, than there is at this moment in all + Danbury! The extravagance amounts to waste. The old gentleman must be + desperate rich, Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + “Herman Mordaunt has a good estate, and very little of it has gone for + plate, Jason; that which you saw is old, and came either from Holland, or + England; one home, or the other.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Holland is no home for me, boy. Depend on it, all that plate is not + put there for nothing. If the truth could be come at, this Herman + Mordaunt, as you call him, though I do not see why you cannot call him <i>'Squire</i> + Mordaunt, like other folks, but this Mr. Mordaunt has some notion, I + conclude, to get his daughter off on one of these rich English officers, + of whom there happen to be so many in the province, just at this time. I + never saw the gentleman, but there was one Bulstrode named pretty often + this forenoon,”—Jason's morning always terminated at his usual + breakfast hour,—“and I rather conclude he will turn out to be the + chap, in the long run. Such is my calculation, and <i>they</i> don't often + fail.” + </p> + <p> + I saw a quick, surprised start in Dirck; but I felt such a twinge myself, + that there was little opportunity to inquires into the state of my + friend's feelings, at this coarse, but unexpected remark. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any particular reason, Mr. Newcome, for; venturing such an + opinion?” I asked, a little sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Come, don't let us, out here in the highway, begin to mister one another. + You are Corny, Dirck is Dirck, and I am Jason. The shortest way is + commonly the best way, and I like given-names among friends. Have I any + particular reason?—Yes; plenty on 'em, and them that's good. In the + first place, no man has a daughter,”—darter à la Jason,—“that + he does not begin to think of setting her out in the world, accordin' to + his abilities; then, as I said before, these folks from home” (hum) “are + awful rich, and rich husbands are always satisfactory to parents, whatever + they may be to children. Besides, some of these officers will fall heirs + to titles, and that is a desperate temptation to a woman, all over the + world. I hardly think there is a young woman in Danbury that could hold + out agin' a real title.” + </p> + <p> + It has always struck me as singular, that the people of Jason's part of + the provinces should entertain so much profound respect for titles. No + portion of the world is of simpler habits, nor is it easier to find any + civilized people among whom there is greater equality of actual condition, + which, one would think, must necessarily induce equality of feeling, than + in Connecticut, at this very moment. Notwithstanding these facts, the love + of title is so great, that even that of serjeant is often prefixed to the + name of a man on his tombstone, or in the announcement of his death or + marriage; and as for the militia ensigns and lieutenants, there is no end + to them. Deacon is an important title, which is rarely omitted; and wo + betide the man who should forget to call a magistrate “esquire.” No such + usages prevail among us; or, if they do, it is among that portion of the + people of this colony which is derived from New England, and still retains + some of its customs. Then, in no part of the colonies is English rank more + deferred to, than in New England, generally, notwithstanding most of those + colonies possess the right to elect nearly every officer they have among + them. I allow that we of New York defer greatly to men of birth and rank + from home, and it is right we should so do; but I do not think our + deference is as great, or by any means as general, as it is in New + England. It is possible the influence of the Dutch may have left an + impression on our state of society, though I have been told that the + colonies farther south exhibit very much the same characteristics as we + do, ourselves, on this head. <a href="#linknote-16" name="linknoteref-16" + id="linknoteref-16"><small>16</small></a> + </p> + <p> + We reached Satanstoe a little late, in consequence of the delay at + Lilacsbush, and were welcomed with affection and warmth. My excellent + mother was delighted to see me at home again, after so long an absence, + and one which she did not think altogether without peril, when it was + remembered that I had passed a whole fortnight amid the temptations and + fascinations of the capital. I saw the tears in her eyes as she kissed me, + again and again, and felt the gentle, warm embrace, as she pressed me to + her bosom, in maternal thanksgiving. + </p> + <p> + Of course, I had to render an account of all I had seen and done, + including Pinkster, the theatre, and the lion. I said nothing, however, of + the Mordaunts, until questioned about them by my mother, quite a fortnight + after Dirck had gone across to Rockland. One morning, as I sat + endeavouring to write a sonnet in my own room, that excellent parent + entered and took a seat near my table, with the familiarity the relation + she bore me justified. She was knitting at the time, for never was she + idle, except when asleep. I saw by the placid smile on her face, which, + Heaven bless her! was still smooth and handsome, that something was on her + mind, that was far from disagreeable; and I waited with some curiosity for + the opening. That excellent mother! How completely did she live out of + herself in all that had the most remote bearing on my future hopes and + happiness! + </p> + <p> + “Finish your writing, my son,” commenced my mother, for I had + instinctively striven to conceal the sonnet; “finish your writing; until + you have done, I will be silent.” + </p> + <p> + “I have done, now, mother; 'twas only a copy of verses I was endeavouring + to write out—you know—that is—write out, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not know you were a poet, Corny,” returned my mother, smiling still + more complacently, for it <i>is</i> something to be the parent of a poet. + </p> + <p> + “I!—I a poet, mother?—I'd sooner turn school-master, than turn + poet. Yes, I'd sooner be Jason Newcome, himself, than even suspect it + possible I <i>could</i> be a poet.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, never mind; people never turn poets, I fancy, with their eyes open. + But, what is this I hear of your having saved a beautiful young lady from + the jaws of a lion, while you were in town; and why was I left to learn + all the particulars from Mr. Newcome?” + </p> + <p> + I believe my face was of the colour of scarlet, for it felt as if it were + on fire, and my mother smiled still more decidedly than ever. Speak! I + could not have spoken to be thus smiled on by Anneke. + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing to be ashamed of, Corny, in rescuing a young lady from a + lion, or in going to her father's to receive the thanks of the family. The + Mordaunts are a family any one can visit with pleasure. Was the battle + between you and the beast, a very desperate conflict, my child?” + </p> + <p> + “Poh! mother:—Jason is a regular dealer in marvels, and he makes + mountains of mole-hills. In the first place, for 'jaws,' you must + substitute 'paws,' and for a 'young lady,' 'her shawl.'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I understand it was the shawl, but it was on her shoulders, and + could not have been disengaged time enough to save her, had you not shown + so much presence of mind and courage. As for the 'jaws,' I believe that + was my mistake, for Mr. Newcome certainly said 'claws.'” + </p> + <p> + “Well, mother, have it your own way. I was of a little service to a very + charming young woman, and she and her father were civil to me, as a matter + of course. Herman Mordaunt is a name we all know, and, as you say, his is + a family that any man may be proud of visiting, ay, and pleased too.” + </p> + <p> + “How odd it is, Corny,” added my mother, in a sort of musing, + soliloquizing way,—“you are an only child, and Anneke Mordaunt is + also an only child, as Dirck Follock has often told me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then Dirck has spoken to you frequently of Anneke, before this, mother?” + </p> + <p> + “Time and again; they are relations, you must have heard; as, indeed, you + are yourself, if you did but know it.” + </p> + <p> + “I?—I related to Anneke Mordaunt, without being too <i>near</i>?” + </p> + <p> + My dear mother smiled again, while I felt sadly ashamed of myself at the + next instant. I believe that a suspicion of the truth, as respects my + infant passion, existed in that dear parent's mind from that moment. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly related, Corny, and I will tell you how. My + great-great-grandmother, Alida van der Heyden, was a first cousin of + Herman Mordaunt's great-great-grandmother, by his mother's side, who was a + Van Kleeck. So, you see, you and Anneke are actually related.” + </p> + <p> + “Just near enough, mother, to put one at ease in their house, and not so + near as to make relationship troublesome.” + </p> + <p> + “They tell me, my child, that Anneke is a sweet creature!” + </p> + <p> + “If beauty, and modesty, and grace, and gentleness, and spirit, and sense, + and delicacy, and virtue, and piety, can make any young woman of seventeen + a sweet creature, mother, then Anneke is sweet.” + </p> + <p> + My dear mother seemed surprised at my warmth, but she smiled still more + complacently than ever. Instead of pursuing the subject, however, she saw + fit to change it, by speaking of the prospects of the season, and the many + reasons we all had for thankfulness to God. I presume, with a woman's + instinct, she had learned enough to satisfy her mind for the present. + </p> + <p> + The summer soon succeeded to the May that proved so momentous to me; and I + sought occupation in the fields. Occupation, however, would not do. Anneke + was with me, go where I would; and glad was I when Dirck, about midsummer, + in one of his periodical visits to Satanstoe, proposed that we should ride + over, and make another visit to Lilacsbush. He had written a note, to say + we should be glad to ask a dinner and beds, if it were convenient, for a + day a short distance ahead; and he waited the answer at the Neck. This + answer arrived duly by mail, and was everything we could wish. Herman + Mordaunt offered us a hearty welcome, and sent the grateful intelligence + that his daughter and Mary Wallace would both be present to receive us. I + envied Dirck the manly feeling which had induced him to take this plain + and respectable course to his object. + </p> + <p> + We went across the country, accordingly, and reached Lilacsbush several + hours before dinner. Anneke received us with a bright suffusion of the + face, and kind smiles; though I could not detect the slightest difference + in her manners to either. To both was she gracious, gentle, attentive, and + lady-like. No allusion was made to the past, except a few remarks that + were given on the subject of the theatre. The officers had continued to + play until the ——th had been ordered up the river, when + Bulstrode, Billings, Harris, virtuous Marcia, and all, had proceeded to + Albany in company. Anneke thought there was about as much to be displeased + with, as there was to please, in these representations; though her removal + to the country had prevented her seeing more than three of them all. It + was admitted all round, however, that Bulstrode played admirably; and it + was even regretted by certain persons, that he should not have been + devoted to the stage. + </p> + <p> + We passed the night at Lilacsbush, and remained an hour or two after + breakfast, next morning. I had carried a warm invitation from both my + parents to Herman Mordaunt, to ride over, with the young ladies, and taste + the fish of the Sound; and the visit was returned in the course of the + month of September. My mother received Anneke as a relation; though I + believe that both Herman Mordaunt and his daughter were surprised to learn + that they came within even the wide embrace of Dutch kindred. They did not + seem displeased, however, for the family name of my mother was good, and + no one need have been ashamed of affinity to <i>her</i>, on her own + account. Our guests did not remain the night, but they left us in a sort + of a chaise that Herman Mordaunt kept for country use, about an hour + before sunset. I mounted my horse, and rode five miles with the party, on + its way back, and then took my leave of Anneke, as it turned out, for + many, many weary months. + </p> + <p> + The year 1757 was memorable in the colonies, by the progress of the war, + and as much so in New York as in any other province. Montcalm had advanced + to the head of Lake George, had taken Fort William Henry, and a fearful + massacre of the garrison had succeeded. This bold operation left the enemy + in possession of Champlain; and the strong post of Ticonderoga was + adequately garrisoned by a formidable force. A general gloom was cast over + the political affairs of the colony; and it was understood that a great + effort was to be made, the succeeding campaign, to repair the loss. Rumour + spoke of large reinforcements from home, and of greater levies in the + colonies themselves than had been hitherto attempted. Lord Loudon was to + return home, and a veteran of the name of Abercrombie was to succeed him + in the command of all the forces of the king. Regiments began to arrive + from the West Indies; and, in the course of the winter of 1757-8, we heard + at Satanstoe of the gaieties that these new forces had introduced into the + town. Among other things, a regular corps of Thespians had arrived from + the West Indies. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-16" id="linknote-16"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 16 (<a href="#linknoteref-16">return</a>)<br /> [ As respects the love of + titles that are derived from the people, there is nothing-opposed to + strict republican, or if the reader will, democratic, principles, since it + is deferring to the power that appoints, and manifests a respect for that + which the community chooses to elevate. But, the deference to <i>English</i> + rank, mentioned by Mr. Littlepage, is undeniably greater among the mass in + New England, than it is anywhere else in this country, at this very + moment. One leading New York paper, edited by New England men, during the + last controversy about the indemnity to be paid by France, actually styled + the Due de Broglie “his grace,” like a Grub Street cockney,—a mode + of address that would astonish that respectable statesman, quite as much + as it must have amused every man of the world who saw it. I have been much + puzzled to account for this peculiarity—unquestionably one that + exists in the country—but have supposed it must be owing to the + diffusion of information which carries intelligence sufficiently far to + acquaint the mass with leading social features, without going far enough + to compensate for a provincial position and provincial habits. Perhaps the + exclusively English origin of the people may have an influence. The writer + has passed portions of two seasons in Switzerland, and, excluding the + small forest cantons, he has no hesitation in saying that the habits and + general notions of Connecticut are more inherently democratical than those + of any part of that country. Notwithstanding, he thinks a nobleman, + particularly an English nobleman, is a far greater man in New England, + than he is among the real middle-state families of New York.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Dear Hasty-Pudding, what unpromised joy + Expands my heart to meet thee in Savoy! + Doom'd o'er the world through devious paths to roam, + Each clime my country, and each house my home, + My soul is sooth'd, my cares have found an end: + I greet my long-lost, unforgotten friend.” + + BARLOW. +</pre> + <p> + The winter was soon drawing to a close, and my twenty-first birth-day was + past. My father and Col. Follock, who came over to smoke more than usual + that winter with my father, began to talk of the journey Dirck and I were + to take, in quest of the Patent. Maps were procured, calculations were + made, and different modes of proceeding were proposed, by the various + members of the family. I will acknowledge that the sight of the large, + coarse, parchment map of the Mooseridge Patent, as the new acquisition was + called, from the circumstance of the surveyors having shot a moose on a + particular ridge of land in its centre, excited certain feelings of + avarice within my mind. There were streams meandering among hills and + valleys; little lakes, or ponds, as they were erroneously called in the + language of the country, dotted the surface; and there were all the + artistical proofs of a valuable estate that a good map-maker could devise, + to render the whole pleasing and promising. <a href="#linknote-17" + name="linknoteref-17" id="linknoteref-17"><small>17</small></a> + </p> + <p> + If it were a good thing to be the heir of Satanstoe, it was far better to + be the tenant in common, with my friend Dirck, of all these ample plains, + rich bottoms, flowing streams and picturesque lakes. In a word, for the + first time, in the history of the colonies, the Littlepages had become the + owners of what might be termed an estate. According to our New York + parlance, six or eight hundred acres are not an estate; nor two or three + thousand, scarcely, but ten, or twenty, and much more, forty thousand + acres of land might be dignified with the name of an estate! + </p> + <p> + The first knotty point discussed, was to settle the manner in which Dirck + and myself should reach Mooseridge. Two modes of going as far as Albany + offered, and on one of these it was our first concern to decide. We might + wait until the river opened, and go as far as Albany in a sloop, of which + one or two left town each week when business was active, as it was certain + to be in the spring of the year, It was thought, however, that the army + would require mos' of the means of transportation of this nature that + offered; and it might put us to both inconvenience and delay, to wait on + the tardy movements of quarter-masters and contractors. My grandfather + shook his head when the thing was named, and advised us to remain as + independent as possible. + </p> + <p> + “Have as little as possible to do with such people, Corny,” put in my + grandfather, now a grey-headed, venerable-looking old gentleman, who did + not wear his wig half the time, but was content to appear in a pointed + night-cap and gown at all hours, until just before dinner was announced, + when he invariably came forth dressed as a gentleman—“Have as little + as possible to do with these gentry, Corny. Money, and not honour, is + their game; and you will be treated like a barrel of beef, or a bag of + potatoes, if you fall into their hands. If you move with the army at all, + keep among the real soldiers, my boy, and, above all things, avoid the + contractors.” + </p> + <p> + It was consequently determined that there was too much uncertainty and + delay in waiting for a passage to Albany by water; for it was known that + the voyage itself often lasted ten days, or a fortnight, and it would be + so late before we could sail, as to render this delay very inconvenient. + The other mode of journeying, was to go before the snow had melted from + the roads, by the aid of which, it was quite possible to make the distance + between Satanstoe and Albany in three days. + </p> + <p> + Certain considerations of economy next offered, and we settled down on the + following plan; which, as it strikes me, is, even now, worthy of being + mentioned on account of its prudence and judgment. It was well known that + there would be a great demand for horses for the army, as well as for + stores, provisions, &c., of various sorts. Now, we had on the Neck + several stout horses, that were falling into years, though still + serviceable and good for a campaign. Col. Follock had others of the same + description, and when the cavalry of the two farms were all assembled at + Satanstoe, there were found to be no fewer than fourteen of the venerable + animals. These made just three four-horse teams, besides leaving a pair + for a lighter load. Old, stout lumber sleighs were bought, or found, and + repaired; and Jaap, having two other blacks with him, was sent off at the + head of what my father called a brigade of lumber sleighs, all of which + were loaded with the spare pork and flour of the two families. The war had + rendered these articles quite high; but the hogs that were slaughtered at + Christmas had not yet been sold; and it was decided that Dirck and myself + could not commence our career as men who had to buy and sell from the + respective farms, in any manner more likely to be useful to us and to our + parents, than this. As Yaap's movements were necessarily slow, he was + permitted to precede Dirck and myself by two entire days, giving him time + to clear the Highlands before we left Satanstoe. The negroes carried the + provender for their horses, and no small portion of the food, and all of + the cider that was necessary for their own consumption. No one was ashamed + of economising with his slaves in this manner; the law of slavery itself + existing principally as a money-making institution. I mention these little + matters, that posterity may understand the conventional feeling of the + colony, on such points. + </p> + <p> + When everything was ready, we had to listen to much good advice from our + friends, previously to launching ourselves into the world. What Col. + Follock said to Dirck, the latter never told me; but the following was + pretty much the form and substance of that which I received from my own + father—the interview taking place in a little room he called his + “office;” or “study,” as Jason used to term it. + </p> + <p> + “Here, Corny, are all the bills, or invoices, properly made out,” my + father commenced, handing me a small sheaf of papers; “and you will do + well to consult them before you make any sales. Here are letters of + introduction to several gentlemen in the army, whose acquaintance I could + wish you to cultivate. This, in particular, is to my old captain, Charles + Merrewether, who is now a Lt. Col., and commands a battalion in the Royal + Americans. You will find him of great service to you while you remain with + the army, I make no doubt. Pork, they tell me, if of the quality of that + you will have, ought to bring three half joes, the barrel—and you + might ask that much. Should accident procure you an invitation to the + table of the Commander-In-Chief, as may happen through Col. Merrewether's + friendship I trust you will do full credit to the loyalty of the + Littlepages Ah! there's the flour, too; it ought to be worth two half joes + the barrel, in times like these. I have thrown in a letter or two to some + of the Schuylers, with whom I served when of your age. They are first-rate + people, remember, and rank among the highest families of the colonies; + full of good old Van Cortlandt blood, and well crossed with the + Rensselaers. Should any of them ask you about the barrel of tongues, that + you will find marked T—” + </p> + <p> + “Any of whom, sir; the Schuylers, the Cortlandts, or the Rensselaers?” + </p> + <p> + “Poh! any of the sutlers, or contractors, I mean, of course. You can tell + them that they were cured at home, and that you dare recommend them as fit + for the Commander-In-Chief's own table.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the character of my father's parting instructions. My mother held + a different discourse. + </p> + <p> + “Corny, my beloved child,” she said; “this will be an all-important + journey to you. Not only are you going far from home, but you are going to + a part of the country where much will be to be seen. I hope you will + remember what was promised for you, by your sponsors in baptism, and also + what is owing to your own good name, and that of your family. The letters + you take with you, will probably introduce you to good company, and that + is a great beginning to a youth. I wish you to cultivate the society of + reputable females, Corny. My sex has great influence on the conduct of + yours, at your time of life, and both your manners and principles will be + aided by being as much with women of character as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “But, mother, if we are to go any distance with the army, as both my + father and Col. Follock wish, it will not be in our power to be much in + ladies' society.” + </p> + <p> + “I speak of the time you will pass in and near Albany. I do not expect you + will find accomplished women at Mooseridge, nor, should you really go any + distance with the troops, though I see no occasion for your going with + them a single foot, since you are not a soldier, do I suppose you will + find many reputable women in the camp; but, avail yourself of every + favourable opportunity to go into good company. I have procured a letter + for you, from a lady of one of the great families of this county, to Madam + Schuyler, who is above all other women, they tell me, in and around + Albany. Her you must see, and I charge you, on your duty, to deliver this + letter. It is possible, too, that Herman Mordaunt——” + </p> + <p> + “What of Herman Mordaunt and Anneke, mother?” + </p> + <p> + “I spoke only of Herman Mordaunt himself, and did not mention Anneke, + boy,” answered my mother, smiling “though I doubt not that the daughter is + with the father. They left town for Albany, two months since, my sister + Legge writes me, and intend to pass the summer north. I will not deceive + you, Corny, so you shall hear all that your aunt has written on the + subject. In the first place, she says Herman Mordaunt has gone on public + service, having an especial appointment for some particular duty of + importance, that is private, but which it is known will detain him near + Albany, and among the northern posts, until the close of the season, + though he gives out to the world, he is absent on account of some land he + has in Albany county. His daughter and Mary Wallace are with him, with + several servants, and they have taken up with them a sleigh-load of + conveniences; that looks like remaining. Now, you ought to hear the rest, + my child, though I feel no apprehension when such a youth as yourself is + put in competition with any other man in the colony. Yes, though your own + mother, I think I may say <i>that!</i>” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, mother?—never mind me; I shall do well enough, depend + on it—that is—but what is it, dear mother?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, your aunt says, it is whispered among a few in town, a very few + only, but whispered, that Herman Mordaunt got the appointment named, + merely that he might have a pretence for taking Anneke near the ——th, + in which regiment it seems there is a baronet's son, who is a sort of + relative of his, and whom he wishes to marry to Anneke.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, then, that my aunt Legge listens to any such unworthy + gossip!” I indignantly cried. “My life on it, Anneke Mordaunt never + contemplated so indelicate a thing!” + </p> + <p> + “No one supposes Anneke does, or did. But fathers are not daughters, + Corny; no, nor mothers neither, as I can freely say, seeing you are my + only child. Herman Mordaunt may imagine all this in <i>his</i> heart, and + Anneke be every thing that is innocent and delicate.” + </p> + <p> + “And how can my aunt Legge's informants know what is in Herman Mordaunt's + heart?” + </p> + <p> + “How?—I suppose they judge by what they find in their own, my son; a + common means of coming at a neighbour's failings, though I believe virtues + are rarely detected by the same process.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and judge of others by themselves. The means may be common, mother, + but they are not infallible.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, Corny, and that will be a ground of hope to you. Remember, + my child, you can bring me no daughter I shall love half as well as I feel + I can love Anneke Mordaunt. We are related too, her father's + great-great-grandmother——” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind the great-great-grandmother, my dear, good, excellent, parent. + After this I shall not attempt to have any secret from you. Unless Anneke + Mordaunt consent to be your daughter, you will never have one.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not say that, Corny, I beseech you,” cried my mother, a good deal + frightened. “Remember there is no accounting for tastes; the army is a + formidable rival, and, after all, this Mr. Bulstrode, I think you call + him, may prove as acceptable to Anneke as to her father. Do not say so + cruel a thing, I entreat of you, dearest, dearest, Corny.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not a minute, mother, since you said how little you apprehended for + me, when opposed by any other man in the province!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, child, but that is a very different thing from seeing you pass all + your days as a heartless, comfortless old bachelor. There are fifty young + women in this very county, I could wish to see you united to, in + preference to witnessing such a calamity.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, mother, we will say no more about it. But is it true that Mr. + Worden actually intends to be of our party?” + </p> + <p> + “Both Mr. Worden and Mr. Newcome, I believe. We shall scarcely know how to + spare the first, but he conceives he has a call to accompany the army, in + which there are so few chaplains; and souls are called to their last dread + account so suddenly in war, that one does not know how to refuse to let + him go.” + </p> + <p> + My poor, confiding mother! When I look back at the past, and remember the + manner in which the Rev. Mr. Worden discharged the duties of his sacred + office during the campaign that succeeded, I cannot but smile at the + manner in which confidence manifests itself in woman. The sex has a + natural disposition to place their trusts in priests, by a very simple + process of transferring their own dispositions to the bosoms of those they + believe set apart for purely holy objects. Well, we live and learn. I dare + say that many are what they profess to be, but I have lived long enough + now to know <i>all</i> are not. As for Mr. Worden, he had one good point + about him, at any rate. His friends and his enemies saw the worst of him. + He was no hypocrite, but his associates saw the man very much as he was. + Still, I am far from wishing to hold up this imported minister as a model + of Christian graces for my descendants to admire. No one can be more + convinced than myself how much sectarians are prone to substitute their + own narrow notions of right and wrong for the Law of God, confounding acts + that are perfectly innocent in themselves with sin; but, at the same time, + I am quite aware too, that appearances are ever to be consulted in cases + of morals, and that it is a minor virtue to be decent in matters of + manners. The Rev. Mr. Worden, whatever might have been his position as to + substantial, certainly carried the external of liberality to the verge of + indiscretion. + </p> + <p> + A day or two after the conversation I have related, our party left + Satanstoe, with some <i>éclat</i>. The team belonged equally to the + Follocks and the Littlepages, one horse being the property of my father, + while the other belonged to Col. Follock. The sleigh, an old one new + painted for the occasion, was the sole property of the latter gentleman, + and was consigned, in mercantile phrase, to Dirck, in order to be disposed + of as soon as we should reach the end of our journey. On its exterior it + was painted a bright sky-blue, while its interior was of vermilion, a + colour that was and is much in vogue for this species of vehicle, inasmuch + as it carries with it the idea of warmth; so, at least, the old people + say, though I will confess I never found my toes any less cold in a sleigh + thus painted, than in one painted blue, which is usually thought a + particularly cold colour to the feet. + </p> + <p> + We had three buffalo-skins, or, rather, two buffalo (bison) skins and one + bear-skin. The last, being trimmed with scarlet cloth, had a particularly + warm and comfortable appearance. The largest skin was placed on the + hind-seat, and thrown over the back of the sleigh, as a matter of course; + and, though this back was high enough to break off the wind from our heads + and necks, the skin not only covered it, but it hung two or three feet + down behind, as is becoming in a gentleman's sleigh. The other buffalo was + spread in the bottom of the sleigh, as a carpet for all four, leaving an + apron to come in front upon Dirck's and my lap, as a protection against + the cold in that quarter. The bear-skin formed a cushion for us in front, + and an apron for Mr. Worden and Jason, who sat behind. Our trunks had gone + on the lumber sleighs, that is, mine and Dirck's had thus been sent, while + our two companions found room for theirs in the conveyance in which we + went ourselves. + </p> + <p> + It was March 1st, 1758, the morning we left Satanstoe, on this memorable + excursion. The winter had proved as was common in our latitude, though + there had been more snow along the coast than was usual. Salt air and snow + do not agree well together; but I had driven in a sleigh over the Neck, + most of the month of February, though there were symptoms of a thaw, and + of a southerly wind, the day we left home. My father observed this, and he + advised me to take the road through the centre of the county, and get + among the hills, as soon as possible. Not only was there always more snow + in that part of the country, but it resisted the influence of a thaw much + longer than that which had fallen near the sea or Sound. I got my mother's + last kiss, my father's last shake of the hand, my grandfather's blessing, + stepped into the sleigh, took the reins from Dirck, and drove off. + </p> + <p> + A party in a sleigh must be composed of a very sombre sort of persons, if + it be not a merry one. In our case, everybody was disposed to good-humour; + though Jason could not pass along the highway, in York Colony, without + giving vent to his provincial, Connecticut hypercriticism. Everything was + Dutch, according to his view of matters; and when it failed of being + Dutch, why, it was York-Colony. The doors were not in the right places; + the windows were too large, when they were not too small; things had a + cabbage-look; the people smelt of tobacco; and hasty-pudding was called + “suppaan.” But these were trifles; and being used to them, nobody paid + much attention to what our puritanical neighbour saw fit to pour out, in + the humility and meekness of his soul. Mr. Worden chuckled, and urged + Jason on, in the hope of irritating Dirck; but Dirck smoked through it + all, with an indifference that proved how much he really despised the + critic. I was the only one who resented this supercilious ignorance; but + even I was often more disposed to laugh than to be angry. + </p> + <p> + The signs of a thaw increased, as we got a few miles from home; and by the + time we reached White Plains, the “south wind” did not blow “softly,” but + freshly, and the snow in the road became sloppy, and rills of water were + seen running down the hill-sides, in a way that menaced destruction to the + sleighing. On we drove, however, and deeper and deeper we got among the + hills, until we found not only more snow, but fewer symptoms of + immediately losing it. Our first day's work carried us well into the manor + of the Van Cortlandts, where we passed the night. Next morning the south + wind was still blowing, sweeping over the fields of snow, charged with the + salt air of the ocean; and bare spots began to show themselves on all the + acclivities and hill-sides—an admonition for us to be stirring. We + breakfasted in the Highlands, and in a wild and retired part of them, + though in a part where snow and beaten roads were still to be found. We + had escaped from the thaw, and no longer felt any uneasiness on the + subject of reaching the end of our journey on runners. + </p> + <p> + The second day brought us fairly through the mountains, out on the plains + of Dutchess, permitting us to sup at Fishkill. This was a thriving + settlement, the people appearing to me to live in abundance, as certainly + they did in peace and quiet. They made little of the war, and asked us + many questions concerning the army, its commanders, its force and its + objects. They were a simple, and judging from appearances, an honest + people, who troubled themselves very little with what was going on in the + world. + </p> + <p> + After quitting Fishkill we found a great change, not only in the country, + but in the weather. The first was level, as a whole, and was much better + settled than I could have believed possible so far in the interior. As for + the weather, it was quite a different climate from that we had left below + the highlands. Not only was the morning cold, cold as it had been a month + earlier with us, but the snow still lay two or three feet in depth on a + level, and the sleighing was as good as heart could wish. + </p> + <p> + That afternoon we overtook Yaap and the brigade of lumber-sleighs. + Everything had gone right, and after giving the fellow some fresh + instructions, I passed him, proceeding on our route. This parting did not + take place, however, until the following had been uttered between us: + </p> + <p> + “Well, Yaap,” I inquired, as a sort of close to the previous discourse, + “how do you like the upper counties?” + </p> + <p> + A loud negro laugh succeeded, and a repetition of the question was + necessary to extort an answer. + </p> + <p> + “Lor', Masser Corny, how you t'ink I know, when dere not'in but snow to be + seen!” + </p> + <p> + “There was plenty of snow in Westchester; yet, I dare say you could give + some opinion of our own county!” + </p> + <p> + “'Cause I know him, sah; inside and out, and all over Masser Corny.” + </p> + <p> + “Well; but you can see the houses, and orchards, and barns, and fences, + and other things of that sort.” + </p> + <p> + “'Em pretty much like our'n, Masser Corny; why you bother nigger with sich + question?” + </p> + <p> + Here another burst of loud, hearty “yah—yah—yahs succeeded; + and Yaap had his laugh out before another word could be got out of him, + when I put the question a third time. + </p> + <p> + “Well, den, Masser Corny, sin' you <i>will</i> know, dis is my mind. Dis + country is oncomparable wid our ole county sah. De houses seem mean, de + barns look empty, de fencea be low, and de niggers, ebbery one of 'em, + look cold, sah—yes, sah—'ey look berry cold!” + </p> + <p> + As a “cold negro” was a most pitiable object in negro eyes, I saw by this + summary that Yaap had commenced his travels in much of the same temper of + superciliousness as Jason Newcome. It struck me as odd at the time; but, + since that day, I have ascertained that this feeling is a very general + travelling companion for those who set out on their first journey. + </p> + <p> + We passed our third night at a small hamlet called Rhinebeck, in a + settlement in which many German names were to be found. Here we were + travelling through the vast estates of the Livingstons, a name well-known + in our colonial history. We breakfasted at Claverack, and passed through a + place called Kinderhook—a village of Low Dutch origin, and of some + antiquity. That night we succeeded in coming near Albany, by making a very + hard day's drive of it. There was no village at the place where we slept; + but the house was a comfortable, and exceedingly neat Dutch tavern. After + quitting Fishkill we had seen more or less of the river, until we passed + Claverack, where we took our leave of it. It was covered with ice, and + sleighs were moving about it, with great apparent security; but we did not + like to try it. Our whole party preferred a solid highway, in which there + was no danger of the bottom's dropping out. + </p> + <p> + As we were now about to enter Albany, the second largest town in the + colony and one of the largest inland towns of the whole country, if such a + word can properly be given to a place that lies on a navigable river, it + was thought necessary to make some few arrangements, in order to do it + decently. Instead of quitting the tavern at daylight, therefore, as had + been our practice previously, we remained until after breakfast, having + recourse to our trunks in the mean time. Dirck, Jason and myself, had + provided ourselves with fur caps for the journey, with ear-laps and other + contrivances for keeping oneself warm. The cap of Dirck, and my own, were + of very fine martens' skins, and as they were round and high, and each was + surmounted with a handsome tail, that fell down behind, they had both a + smart and military air. I thought I had never seen Dirck look so nobly and + well, as he did in his cap, and I got a few compliments on my own air in + mine, though they were only from my mother, who, I do think, would feel + disposed to praise me, even if I looked wretchedly. The cap of Jason was + better suited to his purse, being lower, and of fox-skins, though it had a + tail also. Mr. Worden had declined travelling in a cap, as unsuited to his + holy office. Accordingly he wore his clerical beaver, which differed a + little from the ordinary cocked-hats, that we all wore as a matter of + course, though not so much so as to be very striking. + </p> + <p> + All of us had overcoats well trimmed with furs, mine and Dirck's being + really handsome, with trimmings of marten, while those of our companion + were less showy and expensive. On a consultation, Dirck and I decided that + it was better taste to enter the town in traveller's dresses, than to + enter it in any other, and we merely smartened up a little, in order to + appear as gentlemen. The case was very different with Jason. According to + his idea a man should wear his best clothes on a journey, and I was + surprised to see him appear at breakfast, in black breeches, striped + woollen stockings, large plated buckles in his shoes, and a coat that I + well knew he religiously reserved for high-days and holidays. This coat + was of a light pea-green colour, and but little adapted to the season; but + Jason had not much notion of the fitness of things, in general, in matters + of taste. Dirck and myself wore our ordinary snuff-coloured coats, under + our furs; but Jason threw aside all the overcoats, when we came near + Albany, in order to enter the place in his best. Fortunately for him, the + day was mild, and there was a bright sun to send its warm rays through the + pea-green covering, to keep his blood from chilling. As for Mr. Worden, he + wore a cloak of black cloth, laying aside all the furs, but a tippet and + muff, both of which he used habitually in cold weather. + </p> + <p> + In this guise, then, we left the tavern, about nine in the morning, + expecting to reach the banks of the river about ten. Nor were we + disappointed; the roads being excellent, a light fall of snow having + occurred in the night, to freshen the track. It was an interesting moment + to us all, when the spires and roofs of that ancient town, Albany, first + appeared in view! We had journeyed from near the southern boundary of the + colony, to a place that stood at no great distance from its frontier + settlements on the north. The town itself formed a pleasing object, as we + approached it, on the opposite side of the Hudson. There it lay, + stretching along the low land on the margin of the stream, and on its + western bank, sheltered by high hills, up the side of which, the principal + street extended, for the distance of fully a quarter of a mile. Near the + head of this street stood the fort, and we saw a brigade paraded in the + open ground near it, wheeling and marching about. The spires of two + churches were visible, one, the oldest, being seated on the low land, in + the heart of the place, and the other on the height at no great distance + from the fort; or about half-way up the acclivity, which forms the barrier + to the inner country, on that side of the river. Both these buildings were + of stone, of course, shingle tenements being of very rare occurrence in + the colony of New York, though common enough further east. <a + href="#linknote-18" name="linknoteref-18" id="linknoteref-18"><small>18</small></a> + </p> + <p> + I will own that not one of our party liked the idea of crossing the + Hudson, in a loaded sleigh, on the ice, and that in the month of March. + There were no streams about us to be crossed in this mode, nor was the + cold exactly sufficient to render such a transit safe, and we felt as the + inexperienced would be apt to feel in circumstances so unpleasant. I must + do Jason the credit to admit that he showed more plain, practical, good + sense than any of us, determining our course in the end by his view of the + matter. As for Mr. Worden, however, nothing could induce him to venture on + the ice in a sleigh, or <i>near</i> a sleigh, though Jason remonstrated in + the following terms— + </p> + <p> + “Now, look here, Rev. Mr. Worden”—Jason seldom omitted anybody's <i>title</i>—“you've + only to turn your eyes on the river to see it is dotted with sleighs, far + and near. There are highways north and south, and if that be the place, + where the crossing is at the town, it is more like a thoroughfare than a + spot that is risky. In my judgment, these people who live hereabouts ought + to know whether there is any danger or not.” + </p> + <p> + Obvious as was this truth, 'Rev. Mr. Worden' made us stop on terra firma, + and permit him to quit the sleigh, that he might cross the river on foot. + Jason ventured a hint or two about faith and its virtues, as he stripped + himself to the pea-green, in order to enter the town in proper guise, + throwing aside everything that concealed his finery. As for Dirck and + myself, we kept our seats manfully, and trotted on the river at the point + where we saw sleighs and foot-passengers going and coming in some numbers. + The Rev. Mr. Worden, however, was not content to take the beaten path, for + he knew there was no more security in being out on the ice, <i>near</i> a + sleigh, than there was in being <i>in</i> it, so he diverged from the + road, which crossed at the ferry, striking diagonally atwhart the river + towards the wharves of the place. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to me to be a sort of a holiday among the young and idle, one + sleigh passing us after another, filled with young men and maidens, all + sparkling with the excitement of the moment, and gay with youth and + spirits. We passed no less than four of these sleighs on the river, the + jingling of the bells, the quick movement, the laughter and gaiety, and + the animation of the whole scene, far exceeding anything of the sort I had + ever before witnessed. We were nearly across the river, when a sleigh more + handsomely equipped than any we had yet seen, dashed down the bank, and + came whirling past us like a comet. It was full of ladies, with the + exception of one gentleman, who stood erect in front, driving. I + recognised Bulstrode, in furs like all of us, capped and <i>tailed</i>, if + not plumed, while among the half-dozen pairs of brilliant eyes that were + turned with their owner's smiling faces on us, I saw one which never could + be forgotten by me, that belonged to Anneke Mordaunt. I question if we + were recognised, for the passage was like that of a meteor; but I could + not avoid turning to gaze after the gay party. This change of position + enabled me to be a witness of a very amusing consequence of Mr. Worden's + experiment. A sleigh was coming in our direction, and the party in it + seeing one who was known for a clergyman, <i>walking</i> on the ice, + turned aside and approached him on a gallop, in order to offer the + courtesy of a seat to a man of his sacred profession. Our divine heard the + bells, and fearful of having a sleigh so near him, he commenced a + downright flight, pursued by the people in the sleigh, as fast as their + horses could follow. Everybody on the ice pulled up to gaze in wonder at + this strange spectacle, until the whole party reached the shore, the Rev. + Mr. Worden pretty well blown, as the reader may suppose. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-17" id="linknote-17"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 17 (<a href="#linknoteref-17">return</a>)<br /> [ Forty years ago, a + gentleman in New York purchased a considerable body of wild land, on the + faith of the map. When he came to examine his new property, it was found + to be particularly wanting in water-courses. The surveyor was sought, and + rebuked for his deception, the map having numerous streams, &c. “Why + did you lay down all these streams here, where none are to be found?” + demanded the irritated purchaser, pointing to the document. “Why?—Why + who the d—-l ever saw a map without rivers?” was the answer. + EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-18" id="linknote-18"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 18 (<a href="#linknoteref-18">return</a>)<br /> [ In nothing was the + difference of character between the people of New England, and those of + the middle colonies, more apparent than in the nature of the dwellings. In + New York, for instance, men worth thousands dwelt in humble, low, (usually + one story) dwellings of stone, having window-shutters, frequently within + as well as without, and the other appliances of comfort; whereas the + farmer farther east, was seldom satisfied, though his means were limited, + unless he lived in a house as good as his neighbour's; and the strife + dotted the whole of their colonies with wooden buildings, of great + pretension for the age, that rarely had even exterior shutters, and which + frequently stood for generations unfinished. The difference was not of + Dutch origin, for it was just as apparent in New Jersey or Pennsylvania as + in New York, and I think it may be attributed to a very obvious + consequence of a general equality of condition, a state of society in + which no one is content to wear even the semblance of poverty, but those + who cannot by any means prevent it; but, in which all strive to get as + high as possible, in appearances at least.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Bid physicians talk our veins to temper, + And with an argument new-set a pulse, + Then think, my lord, of reasoning unto love. + + YOUNG. +</pre> + <p> + As the road from the ferry into the town ran along the bank of the river, + we reached the point where the Rev. Mr. Worden had landed precisely at the + same instant with his pursuers, who had been obliged to make a little + circuit, in order to get off the ice. I do not know which party regarded + the other in the greatest astonishment,—the hunted, or the hunters. + The sleigh had in it two fine-looking young fellows, that spoke English + with a slight Dutch accent, and three young women, whose bright coal-black + eyes betokened surprise a little mitigated by a desire to laugh. Seeing + that we were all strangers, I suppose, and that we claimed the runaway as + belonging to our party, one of the young men raised his cap very + respectfully, and opened the discourse by asking in a very civil tone— + </p> + <p> + “What ails the reverent gentleman, to make him run so fast?” + </p> + <p> + “Run!” exclaimed Mr. Worden, whose lungs had been playing like a + blacksmith's bellows—“Run! and who would not run to save himself + from being drowned?” + </p> + <p> + “Drowned!” repeated the young Dutchman, looking round at the river, as if + to ascertain whether the ice were actually moving—“why does the + Dominie suppose there was any danger of <i>that?</i>” + </p> + <p> + As Mr. Worden's bellows were still hard at work, I explained to the young + Albanians that we were strangers just arrived from the vicinity of New + York; that we were unaccustomed to frozen rivers, and had never crossed + one on the ice before; that our reverend companion had chosen to walk at a + distance from the road, in order to be in less danger should any team + break in, and that he had naturally run to avoid their sleigh when he saw + it approaching. The Albanians heard this account in respectful silence, + though I could see the two young men casting sly glances at each other, + and that even the ladies had some little difficulty in altogether + suppressing their smiles. When it was through, the oldest of the Dutchmen—a + fine, dare-devil, roystering-looking fellow of four or five-and-twenty, + whose dress and mien, however, denoted a person of the upper class,—begged + a thousand pardons for his mistake, quitting his sleigh and insisting on + having the honours of shaking hands with the whole of us. His name was + 'Ten Eyck,' he said; 'Guert Ten Eyck,' and he asked permission, as we were + strangers, of doing the honour of Albany to us. Everybody in the place + knew him, which, as we afterwards ascertained, was true enough, for he had + just as much reputation for fun and frolic as at all comported with + respectability; keeping along, as it were, on the very verge of the pale + of reputable people, without being thrown entirely out of it. The young + females with him were a shade below his own natural position in society, + tolerating his frolics on account of this circumstance, aided as it was by + a singularly manly face and person, a hearty and ready laugh, a full + purse, and possibly by the secret hope of being the happy individual who + was designed by Providence to convert 'a reformed rake into the best of + husbands.' In a word, he was always welcome with them, when those a little + above them felt more disposed to frown. + </p> + <p> + Of course, all this was unknown to us at the time, and we accepted Guert + Ten Eyck's proffers of civility in the spirit in which they were offered. + He inquired at what tavern we intended to stop, and promised an early + call. Then, shaking us all round by the hand again with great cordiality, + he took his leave. His companion doffed a very dashing, high, wolf-skin + cap to us, and the black-eyed trio, on the hind-seat, smiled graciously, + and away they drove at a furious rate, startling all the echoes of Albany + with their bells. By this time Mr. Worden was seated, and we followed more + moderately, our team having none of the Dutch courage of a pair of horses + fresh from the stable. Such were the circumstances under which we made our + entrance into the ancient city of Albany. We were all in hopes, the little + affair of the chase would soon be forgotten, for no one likes to be + associated with a ridiculous circumstance, but we counted without our + host. Guert Ten Eyck was not of a temperament to let such an affair sleep, + but, as I afterwards ascertained, he told it with the laughing + embellishments that belonged to his reckless character, until, in turn, + the Rev. Mr. Worden came to be known, throughout all that region, by the + nick-name of the “Loping Dominie.” + </p> + <p> + The reader may be assured our eyes were about us, as we drove through the + streets of the second town in the colony. We were not unaccustomed to + houses constructed in the Dutch style, in New York, though the English + mode of building had been most in vogue there, for half a century. It was + not so with Albany, which remained, essentially, a Dutch town, in 1758. We + heard little beside Dutch, as we passed along. The women scolded their + children in Low Dutch, a use, by the way, for which the language appears + singularly well adapted; the negroes sang Dutch songs; the men called to + each other in Dutch, and Dutch rang in our ears, as we walked our horses + through the streets, towards the tavern. There were many soldiers about, + and other proofs of the presence of a considerable military force were not + wanting; still, the place struck me as very provincial and peculiar, after + New York. Nearly all the houses were built with their gables to the + streets, and each had heavy wooden Dutch stoops, with seats, at its door. + A few had small court-yards in front, and, here and there, was a building + of somewhat more pretension than usual. I do not think, however, there + were fifty houses in the place, that were built with their gables off the + line of the streets. <a href="#linknote-19" name="linknoteref-19" + id="linknoteref-19"><small>19</small></a> + </p> + <p> + We were no sooner housed, than Dirck and I sallied forth to look at the + place. Here we were, in one of the oldest towns of America; a place that + could boast of much more than a century's existence, and it was natural to + feel curious to look about one. Our inn was in the principal street,—that + which led up the hill towards the fort. This street was a wide avenue, + that quite put Broadway out of countenance, so far as mere width was + concerned. The streets that led out of it, however, were principally + little better than lanes, as if the space that had been given to two or + three of the main streets had been taken off of the remainder. The High + Street, as we English would call it, was occupied by sleds filled with + wood for sale; sleds loaded with geese, turkeys, tame and wild, and + poultry of all sorts; sleds with venison, still in the skin, piled up in + heaps, &c.,—all these eatables being collected, in unusual + quantities as we were told, to meet the extraordinary demand created by + the different military messes. Deer were no strangers to us; for Long + Island was full of all sorts of game, as were the upper counties of New + Jersey. Even Westchester, old and well settled as it had become, was not + yet altogether clear of deer, and nothing was easier than to knock over a + buck in the highlands. Nevertheless, I had never seen venison, wild + turkeys and sturgeons, in such quantities as they were to be seen that day + in the principal street of Albany. + </p> + <p> + The crowd collected in this street, the sleighs that were whirling past, + filled with young men and maidens, the incessant jingling of bells, the + spluttering and jawing in Low Dutch, the hearty English oaths of serjeants + and sutlers'-men and cooks of messes, the loud laughs of the blacks, and + the beauty of the cold clear day, altogether produced some such effect on + me, as I had experienced when I went to the theatre. Not the least + striking picture of the scene, was Jason, in the middle of the street, + gaping about him, in the cocked-hat, the pea-green coat, and the striped + woollen stockings. + </p> + <p> + Dirck and myself naturally examined the churches. These were two, as has + been said already,—one for the Dutch, and the other for the English. + The first was the oldest. It stood at the point where the two principal + streets crossed each other, and in the centre of the street, leaving + sufficient passages all round it. The building was square, with a high + pointed roof, having a belfry and weathercock on its apex; windows, with + diamond panes and painted glass, and a porch that was well suited both to + the climate and to appearances. <a href="#linknote-20" + name="linknoteref-20" id="linknoteref-20"><small>20</small></a> + </p> + <p> + We were examining this structure, when Guert Ten Eyck accosted us, in his + frank, off-hand way— + </p> + <p> + “Your servant, Mr. Littlepage; your servant, Mr. Follock,” he cried, again + shaking each cordially by the hand. “I was on the way to the tavern to + look you up, when I accidentally saw you here. A few gentlemen of my + acquaintance, who are in the habit of supping together in the winter time, + meet for the last jollification of the season to-night, and they have all + express't a wish to have the pleasure of your company. I hope you will + allow me to say you will come? We meet at nine, sup at ten, and break up + at twelve, quite regularly, in a very sedate and prudent manner.” + </p> + <p> + There was something so frank and cordial, so simple and straight-forward + in this invitation, that we did not know how to decline it. We both knew + that the name of Ten Eyck was respectable in the colony; our new + acquaintance was well dressed, he seemed to be in good company when we + first met him, his sleigh and horses had been actually of a more dashing + stamp than usual, and his own attire had all the peculiarities of a + gentleman's, with the addition of something even more decided and knowing + than was common. It is true, the style of these peculiarities was not + exactly such as I had seen in the air, manners and personal decorations of + those of Billings and Harris; but they were none the less striking, and + none the less attractive; the two Englishmen being “macaronis,” from + London, and Ten Eyck being a “buck” of Albany. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, very heartily, Mr. Ten Eyck,” I answered, “both for myself + and for my friend”— + </p> + <p> + “And will let me come for you at half-past eight, to show you the way?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, yes, sir; I was about to say as much, if it be not giving you too + much trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not speak of tr-r-ouple”—this last word will give a very good + notion of Guert's accent, which I cannot stop to imitate at all times in + writing—“and do not say your <i>fre'nt</i>, but your <i>fre'ntz</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “As to the two that are not here, I cannot positively answer; yonder, + however, is one that can speak for himself.” + </p> + <p> + “I see him, Mr. Littlepage, and will answer for <i>him</i>, on my own + account. Depent on it, <i>he</i> will come. But the Dominie—he has a + hearty look, and can help eat a turkey and swallow a glass of goot Madeira—I + think I can rely on. A man cannot take all that active exercise without + food.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Worden is a very companionable man, and is excellent company at a + supper-table. I will communicate your invitation, and hope to be able to + prevail on him to be of the party.” + </p> + <p> + “T'at is enough, sir,” returned Ten Eyck, or Guert, as I shall henceforth + call him, in general; “vere dere ist a vill, dere ist a vay.” Guert + frequently broke out in such specimens of broken English, while at other + times he would speak almost as well as any of us. “So Got pless you my + dear Mr. Littlepage, and make us lasting friends. I like your countenance, + and my eye never deceives me in these matters.” + </p> + <p> + Here, Guert shook us both by the hand again, most cordially, and left us. + Dirck and I next strolled up the hill, going as high as the English + church, which stood also in the centre of the principal street, an + imposing and massive edifice in stone. With the exception of Mother + Trinity, in New York, this was the largest, and altogether the most + important edifice devoted to the worship of my own church I had ever seen. + In Westchester, there were several of Queen Anne's churches, but none on a + scale to compare with this. Our small edifices were usually without + galleries, steeples, towers, or bells; while St. Peter's, Albany, if not + actually St. Peter's, Rome, was a building of which a man might be proud. + A little to our surprise, we found the Rev. Mr. Worden and Mr. Jason + Newcome had met at the door of this edifice, having sent a boy to the + sexton in quest of the key. In a minute or two, the urchin returned, + bringing not only the key of the church, but the excuses of the sexton for + not coming himself. The door was opened, and we went in. + </p> + <p> + I have always admired the decorous and spiritual manner in which the Rev. + Mr. Worden entered a building that had been consecrated to the services of + the Deity. I know not how to describe it; but it proved how completely he + had been drilled in the decencies of his profession. Off came his hat, of + course; and his manner, however facetious and easy it may have been the + moment before, changed on the instant to gravity and decorum. Not so with + Jason. He entered St. Peter's, Albany, with exactly the same indifferent + and cynical air with which he had seemed to regard everything but money, + since he entered “York Colony.” Usually, he wore his cocked-hat on the + back of his head, thereby lending himself a lolloping, negligent, and, at + the same time, defying air; but I observed that, as we all uncovered, he + brought his own beaver up over his eye-brows, in a species of military + bravado. To uncover to a church, in his view of the matter, was a sort of + idolatry; there might be images about, for anything he knew; “and a man + could never be enough on his guard ag'in being carried away by such evil + deceptions,” as he had once before answered to a remonstrance of mine, for + wearing his hat in our own parish church. + </p> + <p> + I found the interior of St. Peter's quite as imposing as its exterior. + Three of the pews were canopied, having coats of arms on their canopies. + These, the boy told us, belonged to the Van Rensselaer and Schuyler + families. All these were covered with black cloth, in mourning for some + death in those ancient families, which were closely allied. I was very + much struck with the dignified air that these patrician seats gave the + house of God. <a href="#linknote-21" name="linknoteref-21" + id="linknoteref-21"><small>21</small></a> + </p> + <p> + There were also several hatchments suspended against the walls; some being + placed there in commemoration of officers of rank, from home, who had died + in the king's service in the colony; and others to mark the deaths of some + of the more distinguished of our own people. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Worden expressed himself well pleased with appearances of things, in + and about this building; though Jason regarded all with ill-concealed + disgust. + </p> + <p> + “What is the meaning of them pews with tops to them, Corny?” the pedagogue + whispered me, afraid to encounter the parson's remarks, by his own + criticism. + </p> + <p> + “They are the pews of families of distinction in this place, Mr. Newcome; + and the canopies, or tops, as you call them, are honourable signs of their + owners' conditions.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think their owners will sit under such coverings in paradise, + Corny?” continued Jason, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible for me to say, sir; it is probable, however, the just + will not require any such mark to distinguish them from the unjust.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see,” said Jason, looking round and affecting to count; “there are + just three—Bishop, Priest, and Deacon, I suppose. Waal, there's a + seat for each, and they can be comfortable <i>here</i>, whatever may turn + up <i>herea'ter</i>.” + </p> + <p> + I turned away, unwilling to dispute the point, for I knew it was as + hopeless to expect that a Danbury man would feel like a New Yorker, on + such a subject, as it was to expect that a New Yorker could be made to + adopt Danbury sentiments. As for the <i>argument</i>, however, I have + heard others of pretty much the same calibre often urged against the three + orders of the ministry. + </p> + <p> + On quitting St. Peter's, I communicated the invitation of Guert Ten Eyck + to Mr. Worden, and urged him to be of the party. I could see that the + notion of a pleasant supper was anything but unpleasant to the missionary. + Still he had his scruples, inasmuch as he had not yet seen his reverend + brother who had the charge of St. Peter's, did not know exactly the temper + of his mind, and was particularly desirous of officiating for him, in the + presence of the principal personages of the place, on the approaching + Sunday. He had written a note to the chaplain; for the person who had the + cure of the Episcopalians held that rank in the army, St. Peter's being as + much of an official chapel as a parish church; and he must have an + interview with that individual before he could decide. Fortunately, as we + descended the street, towards our inn, we saw the very person in question. + The marks of the common office that these two divines bore about their + persons in their dress, sufficed to make them known to each other at a + glance. In five minutes, they had shaken hands, heard each man's account + of himself, had given and accepted the invitation to preach, and were + otherwise on free and easy terms. Mr. Worden was to dine in the fort, with + the chaplain. We then walked forward towards the tavern. + </p> + <p> + “By the way, Mr. ——,” said Mr. Worden, in a parenthesis of the + discourse, “the family of Ten Eyck is quite respectable, here in Albany.” + </p> + <p> + “Very much so, sir—a family that is held in much esteem. I shall + count on your assisting me, morning and evening, my dear Mr. Worden.” + </p> + <p> + It is surprising how the clergy do depend on each other for 'assistance!' + </p> + <p> + “Make your arrangements accordingly, my good brother—I am quite + fresh, and have brought a good stock of sermons; not knowing how much + might remain to be done in the army. Corny,” in a half-whisper, “you can + let our new friends know that I will sup with them; and, harkee—just + drop a hint to them, that I am none of your puritans.” + </p> + <p> + Here, then, we found everything in a very fair way to bring us all out in + society, within the first two hours of our arrival. Mr. Worden was engaged + to preach the next day but one; and he was engaged to supper that same + day. All looked promising, and I hurried on in order to ascertain if Guert + Ten Eyck had made his promised call. As before, he was met in the street, + and the acceptance of the Dominie was duly communicated. Guert seemed + highly pleased at this success; and he left me, promising to be punctual + to his hour. In the mean time, we had to dine. + </p> + <p> + The dinner proved a good one; and, as Mr. Worden remarked, it was quite + lucky that the principal dish was venison, a meat that was so easy of + digestion, as to promise no great obstacle to the accommodation of the + supper. He should dine on venison, therefore; and he advised all three of + us to follow his example. But, certain Dutch dishes attracted the eye and + taste of Dirck; while Jason had alighted on a hash, of some sort or other, + that he did not quit until he had effectually disposed of it. As for + myself, I confess, the venison was so much to my taste, that I stuck by + the parson. We had our wine, too, and left the table early, in order not + to interfere with the business of the night. + </p> + <p> + After dinner, it was proposed to walk out in a body, to make a further + examination of the place, and to see if we could not fall in with an army + contractor, who might be disposed to relieve Dirck and myself of some + portion of our charge. Luck again threw us in the way of Guert Ten Eyck, + who seemed to live in the public street. In the course of a brief + conversation that took place, as a passing compliment, I happened to + mention a wish to ascertain, where one might dispose of a few horses, and + of two or three sleigh-loads of flour, pork, &c., &c. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Mr. Littlepage,” said Guert, with a frank smile and a friendly + shake of the hand, “I am delighted that you have mentioned these matters + to me; I can take you to the very man you wish to see; a heavy + army-contractor, who is buying up everything of the sort he can lay his + hands on.” + </p> + <p> + Of course, I was as much delighted as Guert could very well be, and left + my party to proceed at once to the contractor's office, with the greatest + alacrity; Dirck accompanying me. As we went along, our new friend advised + us not to be very backward in the way of price, since the king paid, in + the long run. + </p> + <p> + “Rich dealers ought to pay well,” he added; “and, I can tell you, as a + useful thing to know, that orders came on, no later than yesterday, to buy + up everything of the soil that offered. Put sleigh and harness, at once, + all in a heap, on the king's servants.” + </p> + <p> + I thought the idea not a bad one, and promised to profit by it. Guert was + as good as his word, and I was properly introduced to the contractor. My + business was no sooner mentioned, than I was desired to send a messenger + round to the stables, in order that my conveyance, team, &c., might + make their appearance. As for the articles that were still on the road, I + had very little trouble. The contractor knew my father, and he no sooner + heard that Mr. Littlepage, of Satanstoe, was the owner of the provisions, + than he purchased the whole on the guaranty of his name. For the pork I + was to receive two half-joes the barrel, and for the flour one. This was a + good sale. The horses would be taken, if serviceable, as the contractor + did not question, as would the lumber-sleighs, though the prices could not + be set until the different animals and objects were seen and examined. + </p> + <p> + It is amazing what war will do for commerce, as well as what it does + against it! The demand for everything that the judgment of my father had + anticipated, was so great, that the contractor told me very frankly the + sleighs would not be unloaded in Albany at all, but would be sent on + north, on the line of the expected route of the army, so as to anticipate + the disappearance of the snow and the breaking up of the roads. + </p> + <p> + “You shall be paid liberally for your teams, harness and sleighs,” he + continued, “though no sum can be named until I see them. These are not + times when operations are to be retarded on account of a few joes, more or + less, for the King's service must go on. I very well know that Major + Littlepage and Col. Follock both understand what they are about, and have + sent us the right sort of things. The horses are very likely a little old, + but are good for one campaign; better than if younger, perhaps, and were + they colts we could get no more than that out of them. These movements in + the woods destroy man and beast, and cost mints of money. Ah! There comes + your team.” + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, the sleigh drove round from the tavern, and we all went out + to look at the horses, &c. Guert now became an important person. On + the subject of horses he was accounted an oracle, and he talked, moved, + and acted like one in all respects. The first thing he did was to step up + to the animal's head, and to look into the mouth of each in succession. + The knowing way in which this was done, the coolness of the interference, + and the fine, manly form of the intruder, would have given him at once a + certain importance and a connection with what was going on, had not his + character for judgment in horse-flesh been well established, far and near, + in that quarter of the country. + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word, wonderfully good mouths!” exclaimed Guert, when through. + “You must have your grain ground, Mr. Littlepage, or the teeth never could + have stood it so well!” + </p> + <p> + “What age do you call the animals, Guert?” demanded the contractor. + </p> + <p> + “That is not so easily told, sir. I admit that they are aged horses; but + they may be eight, or nine, or even ten, as for what can be told by their + teeth. By the looks of their limbs, I should think they might be nine + coming grass.” + </p> + <p> + “The near-horse is eleven,” I said, “and the off-horse is supposed to be——” + </p> + <p> + “Poh! poh! Littlepage,” interrupted Guert, making signs to me to be quiet—“you + may <i>think</i> the off-horse ten, but I should place him at about nine. + His teeth are excellent, and there is not even a wind-gall on his legs. + There is a cross of the Flemish in that beast.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and what do you say the pair is worth, Master Guert,” demanded the + contractor, who seemed to have a certain confidence in his friend's + judgment, notwithstanding the recklessness and freedom of his manner. + “Twelve half-joes for them both?” + </p> + <p> + “That will never do, Mr. Contractor,” answered Guert shaking his head. “In + times like these, such stout animals, and beasts too in such heart and + condition, ought to bring fifteen.” + </p> + <p> + “Fifteen let it be then, if Mr. Littlepage assents. Now for the sleigh, + and harness, and skins. I suppose Mr. Littlepage will part with the skins + too, as he can have no use for them without the sleigh?” + </p> + <p> + “Have <i>you</i>, Mr. Contractor?” asked Guert, a little abruptly. “That + bear-skin fills my eye beautifully, and if Mr. Littlepage will take a + guinea for it, here is his money.” + </p> + <p> + As this was a fair price, it was accepted, though I pressed the skin on + Guert as a gift, in remembrance of our accidental acquaintance. This + offer, however, he respectfully, but firmly resisted. And here I will take + occasion to say, lest the reader be misled by what is met with in works of + fiction, and other light and vain productions, that in all my dealings, + and future connection with Guert, I found him strictly honourable in money + matters. It is true, I would not have purchased a horse on his + recommendation, if he owned the beast; but we all know how the best men + yield in their morals when they come to deal in horses. I should scarcely + have expected Mr. Worden to be orthodox, in making such bargains. But, on + all other subjects connected with money, Guert Ten Eyck was one of the + honestest fellows I ever dealt with. + </p> + <p> + The contractor took the sleigh, harness, and skins, at seven more + half-joes; making twenty-three for the whole outfit. This was certainly + receiving two half-joes more than my father had expected; and I owed the + gain of sixteen dollars to Guert's friendly and bold interference. As soon + as the prices were settled, the money was paid me in good Spanish gold; + and I handed over to Dirck the portion that properly fell to his father's + share. As it was understood that the remaining horses, sleighs, harness, + provisions, &c., were to be taken at an appraisal, the instant they + arrived, this hour's work relieved my friend and myself from any further + trouble on the subject of the property entrusted to our care. And a relief + it was to be so well rid of a responsibility that was as new as it was + heavy to each of us. + </p> + <p> + The reader will get some idea of the pressure of affairs, and how + necessary it was felt to be on the alert in the month of March—a + time of the year when twenty-four hours might bring about a change in the + season—by the circumstance that the contractor sent his new purchase + to be loaded up from the door of his office, with orders to proceed on + north, with supplies for a depot that he was making as near to Lake George + as was deemed prudent; the French being in force at Ticonderoga and Crown + Point, two posts at the head of Champlain; a distance considerably less + than a hundred miles from Albany. Whatever was forwarded as far as Lake + George while the snow lasted, could then be sent on with the army, in the + contemplated operations of the approaching summer, by means of the two + lakes, and their northern outlets. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Littlepage,” cried Guert, heartily; “<i>that</i> affair is well + disposed of. You got goot prices, and I hope the King has got goot horses. + They are a little venerable, perhaps; but what of that? The army would + knock up the best and youngest beast in the colony, in one campaign in the + woots; and it can do no more with the oldest and worst. Shall we walk + rount into the main street, gentlemen? This is about the hour when the + young ladies are apt to start for their afternoon sleighing.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the ladies of Albany are remarkable for their beauty, Mr. Ten + Eyck,” I rejoined, wishing to say something agreeable to a man who seemed + so desirous of serving me. “The specimens I saw in crossing the river this + morning, would induce a stranger to think so.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” replied Guert, walking towards the great avenue of the town, “we + are content with our ladies, in general, for they are charming, + warm-hearted and amiable; but there has been an arrival among us this + winter, from your part of the colony, that has almost melted the ice on + the Hudson!” + </p> + <p> + My heart beat quicker, for I could only think of one being of her sex, as + likely to produce such a sensation. Still, I could not abstain from making + a direct inquiry on the subject. + </p> + <p> + “From <i>our</i> part of the colony, Mr. Ten Eyck!—You mean from New + York, probably?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, as a matter of course. There are several beautiful English + women who have come up with the army; but no colonel, major, or captain, + has brought such paragons with him, as Herman Mordaunt, a gentleman who + may be known to you by name?” + </p> + <p> + “Personally too, sir. Herman Mordaunt is even a kinsman of Dirck Follock, + my friend here.” + </p> + <p> + “Then is Mr. Follock to be envied, since he can call cousin with so + charming a young lady as Anneke Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + “True sir, most true!” I interrupted, eagerly; “Anne Mordaunt passes for + the sweetest girl in York!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know that I should go quite as far as that, Mr. Littlepage,” + returned Guert, moderating his warmth, in a manner that a little surprised + me, though his handsome face still glowed with honest, natural admiration; + “since there is a Miss Mary Wallace in her company, that is quite as much + thought of, here in Albany, as her friend, Miss Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + Mary Wallace! The idea of comparing the silent, thoughtful, excellent + though she were, Mary Wallace, with Anneke could never have crossed my + mind. Still, Mary Wallace certainly <i>was</i> a very charming girl. She + was even handsome; had a placid, saint-like character of countenance that + had often struck me, singular beauty and development of form, and, in any + other company than that of Anneke's, might well have attracted the first + attention of the most fastidious beholder. + </p> + <p> + And Guert Ten Eyck admired,—perhaps loved, Mary Wallace! Here, then, + was fresh evidence how much we are all inclined to love our opposites; to + form close friendships with those who resemble us least, principles + excepted, for virtue can never cling to vice, and how much more interest + novelty possesses in the human breast, than the repetition of things to + which we are accustomed. No two beings could be less alike than Mary + Wallace and Guert Ten Eyck; yet the last admired the first. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Wallace is a very charming young lady, Mr. Ten Eyck,” I rejoined, as + soon as wonder would allow me to answer, “and I am not surprised you speak + of her in terms of so much admiration.” + </p> + <p> + Guert stopped short in the street, looked me full in the face with an + expression of truth that could not well be feigned, squeezed my hand + fervently, and rejoined with a strange frankness, that I could not have + imitated, to be master of all I saw— + </p> + <p> + “Admiration, Mr. Littlepage, is not a word strong enough for what I feel + for Mary! I would marry her in the next hour, and love and cherish her for + all the rest of my life. I worship <i>her</i>, and love the earth she + treads on.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have told her this, Mr. Ten Eyck?” + </p> + <p> + “Fifty times, sir. She has now been two months in Albany, and my love was + secured within the first week. I offered myself too soon, I fear; for Mary + is a prutent, sensible young woman, and girls of that character are apt to + distrust the youth who is too quick in his advances. They like to be + served, sir, for seven years and seven years, as Joseph served for + Potiphar.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean, most likely, Mr. Ten Eyck, as Jacob served for Rachel.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, it may be as you say, dough I t'ink that in our Dutch Bibles, + it stands as Joseph served for Potiphar—but you know what I mean, + Mr. Littlepage. If you wish to see the ladies, and will come with me, I + will go to a place where Herman Mordaunt's sleigh invariably passes at + this hour, for the ladies almost live in the air. I never miss the + occasion of seeing them.” + </p> + <p> + I had now a clue to Guert's being so much in the street. He was as good as + his word, however, for he took a stand near the Dutch church, where I soon + had the happiness of seeing Anneke and her friend driving past, on their + evening's excursion. How blooming and lovely the former looked! Mary + Wallace's eye turned, I fancied understandingly, to the corner where Guert + had placed himself, and her colour deepened as she returned his bow. But, + the start of surprise, the smile, and the lightening eye of Anneke, as she + unexpectedly saw me, filled my soul with delight, almost too great to be + borne. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-19" id="linknote-19"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 19 (<a href="#linknoteref-19">return</a>)<br /> [ The population of Albany + could not have reached 4000 in 1758. Its Dutch character remained down to + the close of this century, with gradual changes. The writer can remember + when quite as much Dutch as English was heard in the streets of Albany, + though it has now nearly disappeared. The present population must be near + 40,000. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Littlepage's description was doubtless correct, at the time he wrote; + but Albany would now be considered a first-class country town, in Europe. + It has much better claims to compare with the towns of the old world, in + this character, than New York has to compare with their capitals.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-20" id="linknote-20"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 20 (<a href="#linknoteref-20">return</a>)<br /> [ There were two churches, + of this character, built on this spot. The second, much larger than the + first, but of the same form, was built <i>round</i> the other, in which + service was held to the last, when it was literally thrown out of the + windows of its successor. The last edifice disappeared about forty years + since.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-21" id="linknote-21"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 21 (<a href="#linknoteref-21">return</a>)<br /> [ I cannot recollect one of + these canopied pews that is now standing, in this part of the Union. The + last, of my knowledge, were in St. Mark's, New York, and, I believe, + belonged to the Stuyvesants, the patron family of that church. They were + taken down when that building was repaired, a few years since. This is one + of the most innocent of all our innovations of this character. + Distinctions in the House of God are opposed to the very spirit of the + Christian religion; and it were far more fitting that pews should be + altogether done away with, the true mode of assembling under the sacred + roof, than that men should be classed even at the foot of the altar. + </p> + <p> + It may be questioned if a hatchment is now hung up, either on the + dwelling, or in a church, in any part of America. They were to be seen, + however, in the early part of the present century. Whenever any such + traces of ancient usages are met with among us, by the traveller from the + old world, he is apt to mistake them for the shadows “that coming events + cast before,” instead of those of the past.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Then the wine it gets into their heads, + And turns the wit out of its station; + Nonsense gets in, in its stead, + And their puns are now all botheration.” + + <i>The Punning Society.</i> +</pre> + <p> + Guert Ten Eyck looked at me expressively, as the sleigh whirled round an + angle of the building and disappeared. He then proposed that we should + proceed. On ascending the main street, I was not a little surprised at + discovering the sort of amusement that was going on, and in which it + seemed to me all the youths of the place were engaged. By youths, I do not + mean lads of twelve and fourteen, but young men of eighteen and twenty, + the amusement being that of sliding down hill, or “coasting,” as I am told + it is called in Boston. The acclivity was quite sharp, and of sufficient + length to give an impetus to the sled, that was set in motion at a short + distance above the English church; an impetus that would carry it past the + Dutch church—a distance that was somewhat more than a quarter of a + mile. The hand-sleds employed, were of a size and construction suited to + the dimensions of those that used them; and, as a matter of course, there + was no New Yorker that had not learned how to govern the motion of one of + these vehicles, even when gliding down the steepest descent, with the + nicest delicacy and greatest ease. As children, or boys as late in life as + fourteen even, every male in the colony, and not a few of the females, had + acquired this art; but this was the first place in which I had ever known + adults to engage in the sport. The accidental circumstance of a hill's + belonging to the principal street, joined to the severity of the winters, + had rendered an amusement suited to grown people, that, elsewhere, was + monopolized by the children. + </p> + <p> + By the time we had ascended as high as the English church, a party of + young officers came down from the fort, gay with the glass and the song of + the regimental mess. No sooner did they reach the starting-point, than + three or four of the more youthful got possession of as many sleds, and + off they went, like the shot starting from its gun. Nobody seemed to think + it strange; but, on the contrary, I observed that the elderly people + looked on with a complacent gravity, that seemed to say how vividly the + sight recalled the days of their own youth. I cannot say, however, that + the strangers succeeded very well in managing their sleds, generally + meeting with some stoppage before they reached the bottom of the hill. + </p> + <p> + “Will you take a slide, Mr. Littlepage?” Guert demanded, with a courteous + gravity, that showed how serious a business he fancied the sport. “Here is + a large and strong sled that will carry double, and you might trust + yourself with me, though a regiment of horse were paraded down below.” + </p> + <p> + “But are we not a little too <i>old</i> for such an amusement, in the + streets of a large town, Mr. Ten Eyck?” I answered, doubtingly, looking + round me in an uncertain manner, as one who did not like to adventure, + even while he hesitated to refuse. “Those king's officers are privileged + people, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “No man has a higher privilege to use the streets of Albany, than Mr. + Cornelius Littlepage, sir, I can assure you. The young ladies often honour + me with their company, and no accident has ever happened.” + </p> + <p> + “Do the young ladies venture to ride down <i>this</i> street, Mr. Ten + Eyck?” + </p> + <p> + “Not often, sir, I grant you; though that <i>has</i> been done, too, of a + moon-light night. There is a more retired spot, at no great distance from + this street, however, to which the ladies are rather more partial. Look, + Mr. Littlepage!—There goes the Hon. Capt. Monson, of the ——th, + and he will be down the hill and up again before we are off, unless you + hurry. Take your seat, lady-fashion, and leave me to manage the sled.” + </p> + <p> + What could I do! Guert had been so very civil, was so much in earnest, + everybody seemed to expect it of me, and the Hon. Capt. Monson was already + a hundred yards on his way to the bottom, shooting ahead with the velocity + of an arrow. I took my seat, accordingly, placing my feet together on the + front round, “<i>lady-fashion</i>,” as directed. In an instant, Guert's + manly frame was behind me, with a leg extended on each side of the sled, + the government of which, as every American who has been born north of the + Potomac well knows, is effected by delicate touches of the heels. Guert + called out to the boys for a shove, and away we went, like the ship that + is bound for her “destined element,” as the poets say. We got a good + start, and left the spot as the arrow leaves its bow. + </p> + <p> + Shall I own the truth, and confess I had a momentary pleasure in the + excitement produced by the rapidity of the motion, by the race we were + running with another sled, and by the skill and ease with which Guert, + almost without touching the ground, carried us unharmed through sundry + narrow passages, and along the line of wood and venison loaded sleighs, + barely clearing the noses of their horses. I forgot that I was making this + strange exhibition of myself, in a strange place, and almost in strange + company. So rapid was our motion, however, that the danger of being + recognised was not very great; and there were so many to divide attention, + that the act of folly would have been overlooked, but for a most untimely + and unexpected accident. We had gone the entire length between the two + churches with great success,—several steady, grave, and + respectable-looking old burghers calling out, on a high key, “Vell done, + Guert!”—for Guert appeared to be a general favourite, in the sense + of fun and frolic at least,—when, turning an angle of the Old Dutch + Temple, in the ambitious wish of shooting past it, in order to run still + lower and shoot off the wharf upon the river, we found ourselves in + imminent danger of running under the fore-legs of two foaming horses, that + were whirling a sleigh around the same corner of the church. Nothing saved + us but Guert's readiness and physical power. By digging a heel into the + snow, he caused the sled to fly round at a right angle to its former + course, and us to fly off it, heels over head, without much regard to the + proprieties, so far as postures or grace was concerned. The negro who + drove the sleigh pulled up, at the same instant, with so much force as to + throw his horses on their haunches. The result of these combined movements + was to cause Guert and myself to roll over in such a way as to regain our + feet directly alongside of the sleigh. In rising to my feet, indeed, I + laid a hand on the side of the vehicle, in order to assist me in the + effort. + </p> + <p> + What a sight met my eyes! In the front stood the negro, grinning from ear + to ear; for <i>he</i> deemed every disaster that occurred on runners a fit + subject for merriment. Who ever did anything but laugh at seeing a sleigh + upset?—and it was consequently quite in rule to do so on seeing two + overgrown boys roll over from a hand-sled. I could have knocked the rascal + down, with a good will, but it would not have done to resent mirth that + proceeded from so legitimate a cause. Had I been disposed to act + differently, however, the strength and courage necessary to effect such a + purpose would have been annihilated in me, by finding myself standing + within three feet, and directly in front of Anneke Mordaunt and Mary + Wallace! The shame at being thus detected in the disastrous termination of + so boyish a flight, at first nearly overcame me. How Guert felt I do not + know, but, for a single instant, I wished him in the middle of the Hudson, + and all Albany, its Dutch Church, sleds, hill, and smoking burghers + included, on top of him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Littlepage!” burst out of the rosy lips of Anneke, in a tone of voice + that was not to be misunderstood. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Guert Ten Eyck!” exclaimed Mary Wallace, in an accent and manner that + bespoke chagrin. + </p> + <p> + “At your service, Miss Mary,” answered Guert, who looked a little sheepish + at the result of his exploit, though for a reason I did not at first + comprehend, brushing some snow from his cap at the same time—“At + your service, now and ever, Miss Mary. But, do not suppose it was + awkwardness that produced this accident, I entreat of you. It was + altogether the fault of the boy who is stationed to give warning of + sleighs below the church, who must have left his post. Whenever either of + you young ladies will do me the honour to take a seat with me, I will + pledge my character, as an Albanian, to carry her to the foot of the + highest and steepest hill in town without disturbing a riband.” + </p> + <p> + Marv Wallace made no answer; and I fancied she looked a little sad. It is + possible Anneke saw and understood this feeling, for she answered with a + spirit that I had never seen her manifest before— + </p> + <p> + “No, no, Mr. Ten Eyck,” she said; “when Miss Wallace or I wish to ride + down hill, and become little girls again, we will trust ourselves with + boys, whose constant practice will be likely to render them more expert + than men can be, who have had time to forget the habits of their + childhood. Pompey, we will return home.” + </p> + <p> + The cold inclination of the head that succeeded, while it was sufficiently + gracious to preserve appearances, proved too plainly that neither Guert + nor myself had risen in the estimation of his mistress, by this boyish + exhibition of his skill with the hand-sled. Had either of these young + ladies been Albanians, it is probable they would have laughed at our + mishap; but no high hill running directly into New York, the custom that + prevailed at Albany did not prevail in the capital. Small boys alone used + the hand-sled in that part of the colony, while the taste continued longer + among the more stable and constant Dutch. Of course, we had nothing to do + but to make profound bows, and suffer the negro to move on. + </p> + <p> + “There it is, Littlepage,” exclaimed Guert, with a species of sigh; “I + shall have nothing but iced looks for the next week, and all for riding + down hill four or five years later than is the rule. Everybody, + hereabouts, uses the hand-sled until eighteen, or so; and I am only + five-and-twenty. Pray, what may be your age, my dear fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-one, only about a month since. I wish, with all my heart, it were + ten!” + </p> + <p> + “Turned the corner!—well, that's unlucky; but we must make the best + of it. My taste is for <i>fun</i>, and so I have admitted to Miss Wallace, + twenty times; but she tells me that, after a certain period, men should + look to graver things, and think of their country. She has lectured me + already, once, on the subject of sliding; though she allows that skating + is a manly exercise.” + </p> + <p> + “When a lady takes the trouble to lecture, it is a sure sign she feels + some interest in the subject.” + </p> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas! I never thought of that, Littlepage!” cried Guert, who, + notwithstanding the great advantages he possessed in the way of face and + figure, turned out to have less personal vanity about him than almost any + man I ever met with. “<i>Lecture</i> me she has, and that more than once, + too!” + </p> + <p> + “The lady who lectures <i>me</i>, sir, will not get rid of me, at the end + of the discourse.” + </p> + <p> + “That's manly! I like it, Littlepage; and I like <i>you</i>. I foresee we + shall be great friends; and we'll talk more of this matter another time. + Now, Mary has spoken to me of the war, and hinted that a single man, like + myself, with the world before him, might do something to make his name + known in it. I did not like that; for a girl who loved a fellow would not + wish to have him shot.” + </p> + <p> + “A girl who took no interest in her suitor, Mr. Ten Eyck, would not care + whether he did anything or not. But I must now quit you, being under an + engagement to meet Mr. Worden at the inn, at six.” + </p> + <p> + Guert and I shook hands, for the tenth or twelfth time that day, parting + with an understanding that he was to call for us, to accompany our party + to the supper, at the previously appointed hour. As I walked towards the + inn, I pondered on what had just occurred, in a most mortified temper. + That Anneke was displeased, was only too apparent; and I felt fearful that + her displeasure was not entirely free from contempt. As for Guert's case, + it did not strike me as being half so desperate as my own; for there was + nothing unnatural, but something quite the reverse, in women of sense and + stability, when they admire any youth of opposite temperament—and I + remembered to have heard my grandfather say that such was apt to be the + case,—wishing to elevate their suitors in their pursuits and + characters. Had Anneke taken the pains to remonstrate with me about the + folly of what I had done, I should have been encouraged; but the cold + indifference of her manner, not to call it contempt, cut me to the quick. + It is true, Anneke seemed to feel most on her friend's account; but I + could not mistake the look of surprise with which she saw me, Cornelius + Littlepage, rise from under her sleigh, and stand brushing the snow from + my clothes, like a great calf as I was! No man can bear to be rendered + ridiculous in the presence of the woman he loves. + </p> + <p> + Near the inn I met Dirck, his whole face illuminated with a look of + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “I have just met Anneke and Mary Wallace!” he said, “and they stopped + their sleigh to speak to me. Herman Mordaunt has been here half the + winter, and he means to remain most of the summer. There will be no + Lilacsbush this season, the girls told me, but Herman Mordaunt has got a + house, where he lives with his own servants, and boils his own pot, as he + calls it. We shall be at home there, of course, for you are such a + favourite, Corny, ever since that affair of the lion! As for Anneke, I + never saw her looking so beautiful!” + </p> + <p> + “Did Miss Mordaunt say she would be happy to see us on the old footing, + Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + “Did she?—I suppose so. She said I shall be glad to see you, cousin + Dirck, whenever you can come, and I hope you will bring with you sometimes + the clergyman of whom you have spoken.” + </p> + <p> + “But nothing of Jason Newcome or Corny Littlepage? Tell the truth at once, + Dirck; my name was not mentioned?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeet it was, t'ough; <i>I</i> mentioned it several times, and told them + how long we had been on the roat, and how you trove, and how you had sold + the sleigh and horses already, and a dozen other t'ings. Oh! we talket a + great deal of you, Corny; that is, I dit, and the girls listened.” + </p> + <p> + “Was my name mentioned by either of the young ladies, Dirck, in direct + terms?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure; Anneke had something to say about you, though it was so much + out of the way, I can hardly tell you what it was now. Oh! I remember: she + said 'I have seen Mr. Littlepage, and think he has grown since we last + met; he promises to make a <i>man</i> one of these days.' What could t'at + mean, Corny?” + </p> + <p> + “That I am a fool, a great overgrown boy, and wish I had never seen + Albany; that's what it means. Come, let us go in; Mr. Worden will be + expecting us. Ha! Who the devil's that, Dirck?” + </p> + <p> + A loud Dutch shout from Dirck broke out of him, regardless of the street, + and his whole face lighted up into a broad sympathetic smile. I had caught + a glimpse of a sled coming down the acclivity we were slowly ascending, + which sled glided past us just as I got the words out of my mouth. It was + occupied by Jason alone, who seemed just as much charmed with the sport as + any other grown-up boy on the hill. There he went, the cocked-hat + uppermost, the pea-green coat beneath, and the striped woollens and heavy + plated buckles stuck out, one on each side, governing the movement of the + sled with the readiness of a lad accustomed to the business. + </p> + <p> + “That must be capital fun, Corny!” my companion said, scarce able to + contain himself for the pleasure he felt. “I have a great mind to borrow a + sled and take a turn myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Not if you intend to visit Miss Mordaunt, Dirck. Take my word for it, she + does not like to see men following the pleasures of boys.” + </p> + <p> + Dirck stared at me, but being taciturn by nature, he said nothing, and we + entered the house. There we found Mr. Worden reading over an old sermon, + in readiness for his next Sunday's business; and sitting down, we began to + compare notes on the subject of the town and its advantages. The divine + was in raptures. As for the Dutch he cared little for them, and had seen + but little of them, overlooking them in a very natural, metropolitan sort + of way; but he had found so many English officers, had heard so much from + home, and had received so many invitations, that <i>his</i> campaign + promised nothing but agreeables. We sat chatting over these matters until + the tea was served, and for an hour or two afterwards. My bargains were + applauded, my promptitude—the promptitude of Guert would have been + more just—was commended, and I was told that my parents should hear + the whole truth in the matter. In a word, our Mentor being in good-humour + with himself, was disposed to be in good humour with every one else. + </p> + <p> + At the appointed hour, Guert came to escort us to the place of meeting. He + was courteous, attentive, and as frank as the air he breathed, in manner. + Mr. Worden took to him excessively, and it was soon apparent that he and + young Ten Eyck were likely to become warm friends. + </p> + <p> + “You must know, gentlemen, that the party to which I have had the honour + of inviting you, will be composed of some of the heartiest young men in + Albany, if not in the colony. We meet once a month, in the house of an old + bachelor, who belongs to us, and who will be delighted to converse with + you, Mr. Worden, on the subject of religion. Mr. Van Brunt is very expert + in religion, and we make him the umpire of all our disputes and bets on <i>that</i> + subject.” + </p> + <p> + This sounded a little ominous, I thought; but Mr. Worden was not a man to + be frightened from a good hot supper, by half-a-dozen inadvertent words. + He could tolerate even a religious discussion, with such an object in + view. He walked on, side by side with Guert, and we were soon at the door + of the house of Mr. Van Brunt, the Bachelor in Divinity, as I nicknamed + him. Guert entered without knocking, and ushered us into the presence of + our <i>quasi</i> host. + </p> + <p> + We found in the room a company of just twelve, Guert included; that being + the entire number of the club. It struck me, at the first glance, that the + whole set had a sort of slide-down-hill aspect, and that we were likely to + make a night of it. My acquaintance with Dirck, and indeed my connection + with the old race, had not left me ignorant of a certain peculiarity in + the Dutch character. Sober, sedate, nay phlegmatic as they usually + appeared to be, their roystering was on a pretty high key, when it once + fairly commenced. We thought one lad of the old race, down in Westchester, + fully a match for two of the Anglo-Saxon breed, when it came to a hard + set-to; no ordinary fun appeasing the longings of an excited Dutchman. + Tradition had let me into a good many secrets connected with their + excesses, and I had heard the young Albanians often mentioned as being at + the head of their profession in these particulars. + </p> + <p> + Nothing could be more decorous, or considerate, however, than our + introduction and reception. The young men seemed particularly gratified at + having a clergyman of their party, and I make no doubt it was intended + that the evening should be one of unusual sobriety and moderation. I heard + the word “Dominie” whispered from mouth to mouth, and it was easy to see + the effect it produced. Most eyes were fastened on Van Brunt, a red-faced, + square-built, somewhat dissolute-looking man of forty-five, who seemed to + find his apology for associating with persons so much his juniors, in his + habits, and possibly in the necessity of the case; as men of his own years + might not like his company. + </p> + <p> + “And, gentlemen, it is dry business standing here looking at each other,” + observed Mr. Van Brunt; “and we will take a little punch, to moisten our + hearts, as well as our throats. Guert, yon is the pitcher.” + </p> + <p> + Guert made good use of the pitcher, and each man had his glass of punch,—a + beverage then, as now, much used in the colony. I must acknowledge that + the mixture was very knowingly put together, though I had no sooner + swallowed my glass, than I discovered it was confounded strong. Not so + with Guert. Not only did he swallow <i>one</i> glass, but he swallowed <i>two</i>, + in quick succession, like a man who was thirsty; standing at the time in a + fine, manly, erect attitude, as one who trifled with something that did + not half tax his powers. The pitcher, though quite large, was emptied at + that one assault, in proof of which it was turned bottom upwards, by Guert + himself. + </p> + <p> + Conversation followed, most of it being in English, out of compliment to + the Dominie, who was not supposed to understand Dutch. This was an error, + however, Mr. Worden making out tolerably well in that language, when he + tried. I was felicitated on the bargains I had made with the contractor; + and many kind and hospitable attempts were made to welcome me in a frank, + hearty manner among strangers. I confess I was touched by these honest and + sincere endeavours to put me at my ease, and when a second pitcher of + punch was brought round, I took another glass with right good-will, while + Guert, as usual, took two; though the liquor <i>he</i> drank, I had many + occasions to ascertain subsequently, produced no more visible effect on + him, in the way of physical consequences, than if he had not swallowed it. + Guert was no drunkard, far from it; he could only drink all near him under + the table, and remain firm in his chair himself. Such men usually escape + the imputation of being sots, though they are very apt to pay the penalty + of their successes at the close of their career. These are the men who + break down at sixty, if not earlier, becoming subject to paralysis, + indigestion, and other similar evils. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state of things, the company gradually getting into a very + pleasant humour, when Guert was called out of the room by one of the + blacks, who bore a most ominous physiognomy while making his request. He + was gone but a moment, when he returned with a certain sort of + consternation painted in his own handsome face. Mr. Van Brunt was called + into a corner, where two or three more of the principal persons present + soon collected, in an earnest, half-whispered discourse. I was seated so + near this group, as occasionally to overhear a few expressions, though to + get no clear clue to its meaning. The words I overheard were, “old Cuyler”—“capital + supper”—“venison and ducks”—“partridges and quails”—“knows + us all”—“never do”—“Dominie the man”—“strangers”—“how + to do it?” and several other similar expressions, which left a vague + impression on my mind that our supper was in great peril from some cause + or other; but what that cause was I could not learn. Guert was evidently + the principal person in this consultation, everybody appearing to listen + to his suggestions with respect and attention. At length our friend came + out of the circle, and in a courteous, self-possessed manner communicated + the difficulty in the following words: + </p> + <p> + “You must know, Rev. Mr. Worden, and Mr. Littlepage, and Mr. Follock, and + Mr. Newcome, that we have certain customs of our own, among us youths of + Albany, that perhaps are not familiar to you gentlemen nearer the capital. + The trut' is, that we are not always as wise and as sober as our parents, + and grandparents in particular, could wish us to be. It is t'ought a good + thing among us sometimes, to rummage the hen-roosts and poultry-yards of + the burghers, and to sup on the fruits of such a forage. I do not know how + it is with you, gentlemen; but I will own, that to me, ducks and geese got + in this innocent, game-like way, taste sweeter than when they are bought + in the market-hall: our own supper for to-night was a <i>bought</i> + supper, but it has become the victim of a little enlargement of the + practice I have mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + “How!—how's that, friend Ten Eyck!” exclaimed Mr. Worden, in no + affected consternation. “The <i>supper</i> a victim, do you say?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; to be frank at once, it is gone; gone to a pullet, a steak, and + a potatoe. They have not left us a dish!” + </p> + <p> + “They!” echoed the parson—“And who can <i>they</i> be?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a point yet to be ascertained, for the operation has been carried + on in so delicate and refined a way, that none of our blacks know anything + of the matter. It seems there was a cry of fire just now, and it took + every one of the negroes into the street; during which time all our game + has been put up, and has flown.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless me! bless me! what a calamity!—what a rascally theft! Did you + not mark it down?” + </p> + <p> + “No sir, I am sorry to say we have not; nor do we apply such hard names to + a frolic, even when we lose our supper by it. It is the act of some of our + associates and friends, who hope to feast at our expense to-night; and who + will, gentlemen, unless you will consent to aid us in recovering our lost + dishes.” + </p> + <p> + “Aid you, my dear sir—I will do any thing you can wish—what + will you have me attempt! Shall I go to the fort, and ask for succour from + the army?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; our object can be effected short of t'at. I am quite certain we + can find what we want, only two or three doors from this, if you will + consent to lend us a little, a very little of your assistance.” + </p> + <p> + “Name it—name it, at once, for Heaven's sake, Mr. Guert. The dishes + must be getting cold, all this time,” cried Mr. Worden, jumping up with + alacrity, and looking about him, for his hat and cloak. + </p> + <p> + “The service we ask of you, gentlemen, is just this,” rejoined Guert, with + a coolness that, when I came to reflect on the events of that night, has + always struck me as singularly astonishing. “Our supper, and an excellent + one it is, is close at hand, as I have said. Nothing will be easier than + to get it on our own table, in the next room, could we only manage to call + old Doortje off duty, and detain her for five minutes at the area gate of + her house. She knows every one of <i>us</i>, and would smell a rat in a + minute, did <i>we</i> show ourselves; but Mr. Worden and Mr. Littlepage, + here, might amuse her for the necessary time, without any trouble. She is + remarkably fond of Dominies, and would not be able to trace <i>you</i> + back to this house, leaving us to eat the supper in peace. After <i>t'at</i>, + no one cares for the rest.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll do it!—I'll do it!” cried Mr. Worden, hurrying into the + passage, in quest of his hat and cloak. “It is no more than just that you + should have your own, and the supper will be either eaten, or overdone, + should we go for constables.” + </p> + <p> + “No fear of constables, Mr. Worden, we never employ them in our poultry + wars. All we, who will get the supper back again, can expect, will be + merely a little hot water, or a skirmish with our friends.” + </p> + <p> + The details of the movement were now intelligibly and clearly settled. + Guert was to head a party provided with large clothes-baskets, who were to + enter the kitchen, during Doortje's absence, and abstract the dishes, + which could not yet be served, as all in Albany, of a certain class, sat + down to supper at nine precisely. As for Doortje, a negro who was in the + house, in waiting on one of the guests, his master, would manage to get + her out to the area gate, the house having a cellar kitchen, where it + would depend on Mr. Worden to detain her, three or four minutes. To my + surprise, the parson entered on the execution of the wild scheme with + boyish eagerness, affirming that he could keep the woman half an hour, if + it were necessary, by delivering her a lecture on the importance of + observing the eighth commandment. As soon as the preliminaries were thus + arranged, the two parties proceeded on their respective duties, the hour + admonishing us of the necessity of losing no time unnecessarily. + </p> + <p> + I did not like this affair from the first, the experiment of sliding down + hill, having somewhat weakened my confidence in Guert Ten Eyck's judgment. + Nevertheless, it would not do for <i>me</i> to hold back, when Mr. Worden + led, and, after all, there was no great harm in recovering a supper that + had been abstracted from our own house. Guert did not proceed, like + ourselves, by the street, but he went with his party, out of a back gate + into an alley, and was to enter the yard of the house he assailed, by + means of a similar gate in its rear. Once in that yard, the access to the + kitchen, and the retreat, were very easy, provided the cook could be drawn + away from her charge at so important a moment. Everything, therefore, + depended on the address of the young negro who was in the house, and + ourselves. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the gate of the area, we stopped while our negro descended to + invite Doortje forth. This gave us a moment to examine the building. The + house was large, much larger than most of those round it, and what struck + me as unusual, there was a lighted lamp over the door. This looked as if + it might be a sort of a tavern, or eating house, and rendered the whole + thing more intelligible to me. Our roystering plunderers doubtless + intended to sup on their spoils at that tavern. + </p> + <p> + The negro was gone but a minute, when he came out with a young black of + his own sex, a servant whom he was leading off his post, on some pretence + of his own, and was immediately followed by the cook. Doortje made many + curtsies as soon as she saw the cocked-hat and black cloak of the Dominie, + begging his pardon and asking his pleasure. Mr. Worden now began a grave + and serious lecture on the sin of stealing, holding the confounded Doortje + in discourse quite three minutes. In vain the cook protested she had taken + nothing; that her master's property was sacred in her eyes, and ever had + been; that she never gave away even cold meats without an order, and that + she could not imagine why <i>she</i> was to be talked to in this way. To + give him his due, Mr. Worden performed his part to admiration, though it + is true he had only an ignorant wench, who was awed by his profession, to + manage. At length we heard a shrill whistle from the alley, the signal of + success, when Mr. Worden wished Doortje a solemn good-night, and walked + away with all the dignity of a priest. In a minute or two we were in the + house again, and were met by Guert with cordial shakes of the hand, thanks + for our acceptable service, and a summons to supper. It appears that + Doortje had actually dished-up everything, all the articles standing + before a hot fire waiting only for the clock to strike nine to be served. + In this state, then, the only change the supper had to undergo, was to + bring it a short distance through the alley and to place it on our table, + instead of that for which it was so lately intended. + </p> + <p> + Notwithstanding the rapidity with which the changes had been made, it + would not have been very easy for a stranger to detect any striking + irregularity in our feast. It is true, there were two sets of dishes on + the table, or rather dishes of two different sets; but the ducks, game, + &c., were not only properly cooked, but were warm and good. To work + everybody went, therefore, with an appetite, and for five minutes little + was heard beyond the clatter of knives and forks. Then came the drinking + of healths, and finally the toasts, and the songs, and the stories. + </p> + <p> + Guert sang capitally, in a fine, clear, sweet, manly voice, and he gave us + several airs with words both in English and in Dutch. He had just finished + one of these songs, and the clapping of hands was still loud and warm, + when the young man called on Mr. Worden for a lady, or a sentiment. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Dominie,” he called out, for by this time the feast had produced + its familiarity—“Come, Dominie, you have acquitted yourself so well + as a lecturer, that we are all dying to hear you preach.” + </p> + <p> + “A lady do you say, sir?” asked the parson, who was as merry as any of us. + </p> + <p> + “A laty—a laty”—shouted six or seven at once. “The Tominie's + laty—the Tominie's laty.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, since you will have it so, you shall have one. You must + not complain if she prove a little venerable,—but I give you 'Mother + Church.'” + </p> + <p> + This produced a senseless laugh, as such things usually do, and then + followed my turn. Mr. Van Brunt very formally called on me for a lady. + After pausing a moment I said, as I flatter myself, with spirit—“Gentlemen, + I will give you another almost as heavenly—Miss Anneke Mordaunt!” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Anneke Mordaunt!” was echoed round the table, and I soon discovered + that Anneke was a general favourite, and a very common toast already at + Albany. + </p> + <p> + “I shall now ask Mr. Guert Ten Eyck for his lady,” I said, as soon as + silence was restored, there being very little pause between the cups that + night. + </p> + <p> + This appeal changed the whole character of the expression of Guert's face. + It became grave in an instant, as if the recollection of her whose name he + was about to utter produced a pause in his almost fierce mirth. He + coloured, then raised his eyes and looked sternly round as if to challenge + denial, and gave— + </p> + <p> + “Miss Mary Wallace.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Guert, we are used to that name, now,” said Van Brunt, a little + drily. “This is the tenth time I have heard it from you within two + months.” + </p> + <p> + “You will be likely to hear it twenty more, sir; for I shall give Mary + Wallace, and nobody but Mary Wallace, while the lady remains Mary Wallace. + How, now, Mr. Constable! What may be the reason we have the honour of a + visit from you at this time of night.” <a href="#linknote-22" + name="linknoteref-22" id="linknoteref-22"><small>22</small></a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-22" id="linknote-22"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 22 (<a href="#linknoteref-22">return</a>)<br /> [ In this whole affair of + the supper, the reader will find incidents that bear a striking + resemblance to certain local characteristics portrayed by Mrs. Grant, of + Laggan, in her memoirs of an American Lady; thus corroborating the + fidelity of the pictures of our ancient manners, as given by that + respectable writer, by the unquestioned authority of Mr. Cornelius + Littlepage.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Masters, it is proved already + That you are little better than false knaves; + And it will go near to be thought so, shortly.” + + <i>Dogberry</i>. +</pre> + <p> + The sudden appearance of the city constable, a functionary whose person + was not unknown to most of the company, brought every man at table to his + feet, the Rev. Mr. Worden, Dirck and myself, included. For my own part, I + saw no particular reason for alarm, though it at once struck me that this + visit might have some connection with the demolished supper, since the law + does not, in all cases, suffer a man to reclaim even his own, by trick or + violence. As for the constable himself, a short, compact, snub-nosed, + Dutch-built person, who spoke English as if it disagreed with his bile, he + was the coolest of the whole party. + </p> + <p> + “Vell, Mr. Guert,” he said, with a sort of good-natured growl of + authority, “here I moost coome ag'in! Mr. Mayor woult be happy to see you, + and ter Tominie, dat ist of your party; and ter gentleman dat acted as + clerk, ven he lectured old Doortje, Mr. Mayor's cook.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Mayor's cook! Here, then, a secret was out, with a vengeance! Guert + had not reclaimed his own lost supper, which, having passed into the hands + of the Philistines, was hopelessly gone; but he had actually stolen and + eaten the supper prepared for the Mayor of Albany,—Peter Cuyler, a + man of note, and standing, in all respects; a functionary who had held his + office from time immemorial;—the lamp was the symbol of authority, + and not the sign of an inn, or an eating-house;—the supper, + moreover, was never prepared for one man, or one family, but had certainly + been got up for the honourable treatment of a goodly company;—fifteen + stout men had mainly appeased their appetites on it; and the fragments + were that moment under discussion among half-a-dozen large-mouthed, + shining negro faces, in the kitchen! Under circumstances like these, I + looked inquiringly at the Rev. Mr. Worden—and the Rev. Mr. Worden + looked inquiringly at me. There was no apparent remedy, however; but, + after a brief consultation with Guert, we, the summoned parties, took our + hats and followed Dogberry to the residence of Mr. Mayor. + </p> + <p> + “You are not to be uneasy, gentlemen, at this little interruption of our + amusements,” said Guert, dropping in between Mr. Worden and myself, as we + proceeded on our way, “these things happening very often among us. You are + innocent, you know, under all circumstances, since you supposed that the + supper was our own—brought back by direct means, instead of having + recourse to the shabby delays of the law.” + </p> + <p> + “And whose supper may this have been, sir, that we have just eaten!” + demanded Mr. Worden. + </p> + <p> + “Why, there can be no harm, now, in telling you the truth, Dominie; and I + will own, therefore, it belonged in law to Mr. Mayor Cuyler. There is no + great danger, however, as you will see, when I come to explain matters. + You must know that the Mayor's wife was a Schuyler, and my mother has some + of that blood in her veins, and we count cousins as far as we can see, in + Albany. It is just supping with one's relations, a little out of the + common way, as you will perceive, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you dealt fairly with Mr. Littlepage and myself, sir, in this + affair?” Mr. Worden asked, a little sternly. “I might, with great + propriety, lecture to a cook, on the eighth commandment, when that cook + was a party to robbing you of your supper; but how shall I answer to His + Honour, Mr. Mayor, on the charge which will now be brought against me? It + is not for myself, Mr. Guert, that I feel so much concern, as for the + credit and reputation of my sacred office, and that, too, among your + disciples of the schools of Leyden!” + </p> + <p> + “Leave it all to me, my dear Dominie—leave it all to me,” answered + Guert, well disposed to sacrifice himself, rather than permit a friend to + suffer. “I am used to these little matters, and will take care of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I vill answer for t'at,” put in the constable, looking over his shoulder. + “No young fly-away in All<i>pon</i>ny hast more knowletge in t'ese matters + t'an Mr. Guert, here. If any potty can draw his heat out of the yoke, Mr. + Guert can, Yaas—yaas—he know all apout t'ese little matters, + sure enough.” + </p> + <p> + This was encouraging, of a certainty! Our associate was so well known for + his tricks and frolics, that even the constable who took him calculated + largely on his address in getting out of scrapes! I did not apprehend that + any of us were about to be tried and convicted of a downright robbery; for + I knew how far the Dutch carried their jokes of this nature, and how + tolerant the seniors were to their juniors; and especially how much all + men are disposed to regard any exploit of the sort of that in which we had + been engaged, when it has been managed adroitly, and in a way to excite a + laugh. Still, it was no joke to rob a Mayor of his supper these + functionaries usually passing to their offices through the probationary + grade of Alderman. <a href="#linknote-23" name="linknoteref-23" + id="linknoteref-23"><small>23</small></a> Guert was not free from + uneasiness, as was apparent by a question he put to the officer, on the + steps of Mr. Cuyler's house, and under the very light of the official + lamp. + </p> + <p> + “How is the old gentleman, this evening, Hans?” the principal asked, with + some little concern in his manner. “I hope he and his company have + supped?” + </p> + <p> + “Vell, t'at is more t'an I can tell you, Mr. Guert. He look't more as like + himself, when he hat the horse t'ieves from New Englant taken up, t'an he + hast for many a tay. 'Twas most too pat, Mr. Guert, to run away wit' the + Mayor's <i>own</i> supper! I coult have tolt you who hast your own tucks + and venison.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you had, Hans, with all my heart; but we were hard pushed, and had + a strange Dominie to feed. You know a body must provide <i>well</i> for + company.” + </p> + <p> + “Yaas, yaas; I understants it, and knows how you moost have peen + nonplush't to do sich a t'ing; put it was <i>mo-o-st</i> too pat. Vell, we + are all young, afore we live to be olt—t'at effery potty knows.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the door was open, and we entered. Mr. Mayor had issued + orders we should all be shown into the parlour, where I rather think, from + what subsequently passed, he intended to cut up Guert a little more than + common, by exposing him before the eyes of a particular person. At all + events, the reader can judge of my horror, at finding that the party whose + supper I had just helped to demolish, consisted, in addition to three or + four sons and daughters of the house, of Herman Mordaunt, Mary Wallace, + and Anneke! Of course, everybody knew <i>what</i> had been done; but, + until we entered the room, Mr. Mayor alone knew <i>who</i> had done it. Of + Mr. Worden and myself even, he knew no more than he had learned from + Dootje's account of the matter; and the cook, quite naturally, had + represented us as rogues feigning our divinity. + </p> + <p> + Guert was a thoroughly manly fellow, and he did us the justice to enter + the parlour first. Poor fellow! I can feel for him, even at this distance + of time, when his eye first fell on Mary Wallace's pallid and distressed + countenance. It could scarcely be less than I felt myself, when I first + beheld Anneke's flushed features, and the look of offended propriety that + I fancied to be sparkling in her estranged eye. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Mayor evidently regarded Mr. Worden with surprise, as indeed he did + me; for, instead of strangers, he probably expected to meet two of those + delinquents whose faces were familiar to him, by divers similar jocular + depredations, committed within the limits of his jurisdiction. Then the + circumstance that Mr. Worden was a real Dominie, could not be questioned + by those who saw him standing, as he did, face to face, with all the usual + signs of his sacred office in his dress and air. + </p> + <p> + “I believe there must be some mistake here, constable!” exclaimed Mr. + Mayor. “Why have you brought these two strange gentlemen along with Guert + Ten Eyck?” + </p> + <p> + “My orters, Mr. Mayor, wast to pring Dootje's 'rapscallion Tominie,' and + his 'rapscallion frient;' and t'at is one, and t'is ist t'ot'e.” + </p> + <p> + “This gentleman has the appearance of being a <i>real</i> clergyman, and + that too, of the church of England.” + </p> + <p> + “Yaas, Mr. Mayor, t'at is yoost so. He wilt preach fifteen minutes wit'out + stopping, if you wilt give him a plack gownt; and pray an hour in a white + shirt.” <a href="#linknote-24" name="linknoteref-24" id="linknoteref-24"><small>24</small></a> + </p> + <p> + “Will you do me the favour, Guert Ten Eyck, to let me have the names of + the strangers I have the pleasure to receive,” said the mayor, a little + authoritatively. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Mayor; certainly, and with very great pleasure. I should + have done this at once, had we been ushered into your house by any one but + the city constable. Whenever I accompany that gentleman anywhere, I always + wait to ascertain my welcome.” + </p> + <p> + Guert laughed with some heart at this allusion to his own known + delinquencies, while Mr. Cuyler only smiled. I could see, notwithstanding + the severe measures to which he had resorted in this particular case, that + the last was not unfriendly to the first, and that our friend Guert had + not fallen literally among robbers, in being brought to the place where we + were. + </p> + <p> + “This reverend dominie,” continued Guert, as soon as he had had his laugh, + and had ventured to cast a short, inquiring glance at Mary Wallace, “is a + gentleman from England, Mr. Mayor, who is to preach in St. Peter's the day + after to-morrow, by special invitation from the chaplain; when, I make no + doubt, we shall all be much edified; Miss Mary Wallace among the rest, if + she will do him the honour to attend the service—good, and angelic, + and <i>forgiving</i>, as I know she is by nature.” + </p> + <p> + This speech caused all eyes to turn on the young lady whose face + crimsoned, though she made no reply. I now felt satisfied that Guert's + manly, frank, avowed, and sincere admiration had touched the heart of Mary + Wallace, while her reason condemned that which her natural tenderness + encouraged; and the struggle in her mind was then, and long after, a + subject of curious study with me. As for Anneke, I thought she resented + this somewhat indiscreet, not to say indelicate though indirect avowal of + his feelings towards his mistress; and that she looked on Guert with even + more coldness than she had previously done. Neither of the ladies, + however, said anything. During this dumb-show, Mr. Cuyler had leisure to + recover from the surprise of discovering that one of his prisoners was + really a clergyman, and to inquire who the other might be. + </p> + <p> + “That gentleman, then, is in fact a clergyman!” he answered. “You have + forgotten to name the other, Guert.” + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Corny Littlepage, Mr. Mayor—the only son of Major + Littlepage, of Satanstoe, Westchester.” + </p> + <p> + The Mayor looked a little puzzled, and I believe felt somewhat embarrassed + as to the manner in which he ought to proceed. The incursion of Guert upon + his premises much exceeded in boldness, anything of the kind that had ever + before occurred in Albany. It was common enough for young men of his stamp + to carry off poultry, pigs, &c., and feast on the spoils; and cases + had occurred, as I afterwards learned, in which rival parties of these + depredators preyed on each other—the same materials for a supper + having been known to change hands two or three times before they were + consumed—but no one had ever presumed, previously to this evening, + to make an inroad even on Mr. Mayor's hencoop, much less to molest the + domains of his cook. In the first impulse of his anger, Mr. Cuyler had + sent for the constable; and Guert's club, with its place of meeting being + well known, that functionary having had many occasions to visit it, the + latter proceeded thither forthwith. It is probable, however, a little + reflection satisfied the mayor that a frolic could not well be treated as + a larceny; and that Guert had some of his own wife's blood in his veins. + When he came to find that two respectable strangers were implicated in the + affair, one of whom was actually a clergyman, this charitable feeling was + strengthened, and he changed his course of proceeding. + </p> + <p> + “You can return home, Hans,” said Mr. Mayor, very sensibly mollified in + his manner. “Should there be occasion for your further services, I will + send for you. Now gentlemen,” as soon as the door closed on the constable, + “I will satisfy you that old Peter Cuyler can cover a table, and feed his + friends, even though Guert Ten Eyck be so near a neighbour. Miss Wallace, + will you allow me the honour to lead you to the table? Mr. Worden will see + Mrs. Cuyler, in safety, to the same place.” + </p> + <p> + On this hint, the missionary stepped forward with alacrity, and led Mrs. + Mayoress after Mary Wallace, with the utmost courtesy. Guert did the same + to one of the young ladies of the house; Anneke was led in by one of the + young men; and I took the remaining young lady, who, I presumed, was also + one of the family. It was very apparent we were respited; and all of us + thought it wisest to appear as much at our ease as possible, in order not + to balk the humour of the principal magistrate of the ancient town of + Albany. + </p> + <p> + To do Mr. Mayor justice, the lost time had been so well improved by + Doortje, that, on looking around the table, I thought the supper to which + we were thus strangely invited, was, of the two, the best I had seen that + evening. Luckily, game was plenty; and, by means of quails, partridges, + oysters, venison patties, and other dishes of that sort, the cook had + managed to send up quite as good a supper, at ten o'clock, as she had + previously prepared for nine. + </p> + <p> + I will not pretend that I felt quite at my ease, as I took my seat at the + table, for the second time that night. All the younger members of the + party looked exceedingly grave, as if they could very well dispense with + our company; the old people alone appearing to enter into the scene with + any spirit. Anneke did not even look at me, after the first astounded look + given on my entrance; nor did Mary Wallace once cast her eyes towards + Guert, when we reached the supper-room. Mr. Mayor, notwithstanding, had + determined to laugh off the affair; and he and Mr. Worden soon became + excellent friends, and began to converse freely and naturally. + </p> + <p> + “Come, cousin Guert,” cried Mr. Mayor, after two or three glasses of + Madeira had still further warmed his heart, “fill, and pledge me—unless + you prefer to give a lady. If the last, everybody will drink to her, with + hearty good-will. You eat nothing, and must drink the more.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Mr. Mayor, I have toasted one lady, to-night, and cannot toast + another.” + </p> + <p> + “Not present company excepted, my boy?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, not even with that license. I pledge you, with all my heart, and + thank you, with all my heart, for this generous treatment, after my own + foolish frolic;—but, you know how it is, Mr. Mayor, with us Albany + youths, when our pride is up, and a supper must be had—” + </p> + <p> + “Not I, Guert; I know nothing about it; but should very well like to + learn. How came you, in the first place, to take such a fancy to my cook's + supper? Did you imagine it better than Van Brunt's cook could give you?” + </p> + <p> + “The supper of Arent Van Brunt's cook has disappeared—gone on the + hill, I fancy, among the red-coats; and, to own the truth, Mr. Mayor, it + was yours, or nothing. I had invited these gentlemen to pass the evening + with us. One of our blacks happened to mention what was going on here, and + hospitality led us all astray. It was nothing more, I do assure you, Mr. + Mayor.” + </p> + <p> + “And so your hospitable feelings made your guests work for their supper, + by sending them to preach to old Doortje, while you were dishing up my + ducks and game?” + </p> + <p> + “Your pardon, Mr. Mayor; Doortje had dished-up, before she went to + lecture. Your cook is too well trained to neglect her duty, even to hear a + sermon by the Rev. Mr. Worden! But, these gentlemen were quite as much + deceived as the old woman; for, they supposed we were after our own lost + goods, and did not know that you dwelt here; and were as much my dupes as + old Doortje herself. Truth obliges me to own this much, in their + justification.” + </p> + <p> + There was a general clearing up of countenances, at this frank avowal; and + I saw that Anneke, herself, turned her looks inquiringly upon the speaker, + and suffered a smile to relieve the extreme gravity of her sweet + countenance. From that moment, a very sensible change came over the + feelings and deportment of the younger part of the company, and the + conversation became easier and more natural. It was certainly much in our + favour to have it known, we had not officiously and boyishly joined in a + gratuitous attempt to rob and insult this particular and unoffending + family, but that Mr. Worden and I supposed we were simply aiding in + getting back those things which properly belonged to our hosts, and + getting them back, too, in a manner of which the party we supposed we were + acting against, would certainly have no right to complain, inasmuch as + they had set the example. Guert was encouraged to go on further with his + explanations; which he did, in his own honest, candid manner, exculpating + us, in effect, from everything but being a little too much disposed to + waggery, for a minister of the church, and his pupil, who had just + commenced his travels. + </p> + <p> + Anneke's face brightened up, more and more, as the explanations proceeded; + and, soon after they were ended, she turned to me in a very gracious + manner, and inquired after my mother. As I sat directly opposite to her, + and the table was narrow, we could converse without attracting much + attention to ourselves; Mr. Mayor and his other guests keeping up a round + of reasonably noisy jokes, on the events of the evening, nearer the foot + of the table. + </p> + <p> + “You find some customs in Albany, Mr. Littlepage, that are not known to + us, in New York,” Anneke observed, after a few preliminary remarks had + opened the way to further communication. + </p> + <p> + “I scarce know, Miss Anneke, whether you allude to what has occurred this + evening, or to what occurred this afternoon?” + </p> + <p> + “To both, I believe,” answered Anneke, smiling, though she coloured, as I + thought, with a species of feminine vexation; “for, certainly, one is no + more a custom with us than the other.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been most unfortunate, Miss Mordaunt, in the exhibitions I have + made of myself in the course of the few hours I have passed in this, to + me, strange place. I am afraid you regard me as little more than an + overgrown boy who has been permitted by his parents to leave home sooner + than he ought.” + </p> + <p> + “This is your construction, and not mine, Mr. Littlepage. I suppose you + know—but, we will talk of this in the other room, or at some other + time.” + </p> + <p> + I took the hint, and said no more on the subject while at table. Mr. + Mayor, I suppose in consideration of our having gone through the exactions + of one feast already that evening, permitted us to leave the supper-room + much earlier than common, and the hour being late, the whole party broke + up immediately afterwards. Before we separated, however, Herman Mordaunt + approached me, in a friendly, free way, and invited me to come to his + house at eight next morning to breakfast, requesting the pleasure of + Dirck's company at the same time; the invitation to the latter going + through me. It is scarcely necessary to say how gladly I accepted, and how + much I was relieved by this termination of an adventure that, at one + moment, menaced me with deep disgrace. Had Mr. Mayor seen fit to pursue + the affair of the abstraction of his first supper in a serious vein, + although the legal consequences could not probably have amounted to + anything very grave, they might prove very ridiculous; and I have no doubt + they would have brought about a very abrupt termination of my visit to the + north. As it was, my mind was vastly relieved, as I believe was the case + also with that of the Rev. Mr. Worden. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” said that gentleman, after we had wished Guert good-night, and + were well on our way to the inn again, “this second supper has helped + surprisingly to digest the first. I doubt if our new acquaintance, here, + will be likely to turn out very profitable to us.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, sir, you appeared to take to him exceedingly, and I had thought you + excellent friends.” + </p> + <p> + “I like the fellow well enough too; for he is hearty, and frank, and + good-natured; but there was some little policy in keeping on good terms + with him. I'm afraid, Corny, I did not altogether consult the dignity of + my holy office, this morning, on the ice! It is exceedingly unbecoming in + a clergyman, to be seen running in a public place like a school-boy, or a + youngster contending in a match. I thought, moreover, I overheard one of + those young Dutchmen call me the 'Loping Dominie;' and so, taking + altogether, it struck me it would be wisest to keep on good terms with + this Guert Ten Eyck.” + </p> + <p> + “I see your policy, sir, and it does not become me to deny it. As for + myself, I confess I like Guert surprisingly, and shall not give him up + easily; though he has already got me into two serious scrapes in the short + time we have been acquainted; He is a hearty, good-natured, thoughtless + young fellow; who, Dutchman-like, when he does make an attempt to enjoy + life, does it with all his heart.” + </p> + <p> + I then related the affair of the hand-sled to Mr. Worden, who gave me some + of that sort of consolation, of which a man receives a great deal, as he + elbows his way through this busy, selfish world. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Corny,” said my old master, “I am not certain you did not look more + like a fool, as you rolled over from that sled, than I looked while + 'loping' from our friends in the sleigh!” + </p> + <p> + We both laughed as we entered the tavern; I, to conceal the vexation I + really felt, and Mr. Worden, as I presume, because he was flattered with + the belief that I must have appeared quite as ridiculous as himself. + </p> + <p> + Next morning I proceeded to Herman Mordaunt's residence at the earliest + hour the rules of society would allow. I found the family established in + one of those Dutch edifices, of which Albany was mainly composed, and + which stood a little removed from the street—having a tiny yard in + front, with the <i>stoop</i> in the gable, and that gable towards the + yard. The battlement walls of this house diminished towards the high apex + of a very steep roof by steps, as we are all so much accustomed to see, + and the whole was surmounted by an iron weathercock, that was perched on a + rod of some elevation. It was always a matter of importance with the Dutch + to know which way the wind blew; nor did it comport with their habits of + minute accuracy, to trust to the usual indications of the feeling on the + skin, the bending of branches, the flying of clouds, or the driving of + smoke; but they must and would have the certainty of a machine, that was + constructed expressly to let them know the fact. Smoke might err, but a + weathercock would not! + </p> + <p> + No one was in the little parlour into which I was shown by the servant who + admitted me to the house, and in whom I recognised Herman Mordaunt's + principal male attendant, of the household in New York. How pleasantly did + that little room appear to me, in the minute or two that I was left in it + alone. There lay the very shawl that Anneke had on, the day I met her in + the Pinkster Field; and a pair of gloves that it seemed to me no other + hands but hers were small enough to wear, had been thrown on the shawl, + carelessly, as one casts aside a thing of that sort, in a hurry. A dozen + other articles were put here and there, that denoted the habits and + presence of females of refinement. But the gloves most attracted my + attention, and I must needs rise and examine them. It is true, these + gloves might belong to Mary Wallace, for she, too, had a pretty little + hand, but I fancied they belonged to Anneke. Under this impression, I + raised them to my lips, and was actually pressing them there, with a good + deal of romantic feeling, when a light footstep in the room told me I was + not alone. Dropping the gloves, I turned and beheld Anneke herself. She + was regarding me with an expression of countenance I did not then know how + to interpret, and which I now hardly know how to describe. In the first + place, her charming countenance was suffused with blushes, while her eyes + were filled with an expression of softened interest, that caused my heart + to beat so violently, that I did not know but it would escape by the + channel of the throat. How near I was to declaring all I felt, at that + moment; of throwing myself at the feet of the dear, dear creature, and of + avowing how much and engrossingly she had filled both my waking and + sleeping thoughts during the last year, and of beseeching her to bless the + remainder of my days, by becoming my wife! Nothing prevented this sally, + but the remark which Anneke made, the instant she had gracefully curtsied, + in return to my confused and awkward bow, and which happened to be this: + </p> + <p> + “What do you find so much to admire in Miss Wallace's gloves?” asked the + wilful girl, biting her lip, as I fancied, to suppress a smile, though her + cheeks were still suffused, and her eyes continued to give forth that + indescribable expression of bewitching softness. “It is a pair my father + presented to her, and she wore them last evening in compliment to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg pardon, Miss Mordaunt—Miss Anneke—that is—I beg + pardon. Is there not a very delightful odour about those gloves—that + is, I was thinking so, and was endeavouring to ascertain what it might be + by the scent.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be the lavender with which we young ladies are so coquettish as + to sprinkle our gloves and handkerchiefs—or it may be musk. Mary is + rather fond of musk, though I prefer lavender. But what an evening we had, + Mr. Littlepage! and what an introduction you have had to Albany and most + of all, what a master of ceremonies!” + </p> + <p> + “Do you then dislike Guert Ten Eyck as an acquaintance, Miss Anneke?” + </p> + <p> + “Far from it. It is quite impossible to <i>dislike</i> Guert; he is so + manly; so ready to admit his own weaknesses; so sincere in all he does and + says; so good natured; and, in short, so much that, were one his sister, + she might wish him to be, and yet so much that a sister must regret.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought last evening that all the ladies felt an interest in him, + notwithstanding the numberless wild and ill-judged things he does. Is he + not a favourite with Miss Wallace?” + </p> + <p> + The quick, sensitive glance that Anneke gave me, said plainly enough that + my question was indiscreet, and it was no sooner put than it was + regretted. A shadow passed athwart the sweet face of my companion, and a + moment of deep, and, as I fancied, of painful thought succeeded. Then a + light broke over all, a smile illumined her features, after which a light + girlish laugh came to show how active were the agents within, and how + strong was the native tendency to happiness and humour. + </p> + <p> + “After all, Corny Littlepage,” said Anneke, turning her face towards me + with an indescribable character of fun and feeling so blended in it, as + fairly to puzzle me, “you must admit that your exploit in the hand-sled + was sufficiently ridiculous to last a young man for some time!” + </p> + <p> + “I confess it all, Anneke, and shall have a care how I turn boy again in a + strange place. I am rejoiced to find, however, that you look upon the + foolish affair of the slide as more grave than that of the supper, which I + was fearful might involve me in serious disgrace.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither is very serious, Mr. Littlepage, though the last might have + proved awkward, had not the Mayor known the ways of the young men of the + town. They say, however, that nothing so bold has ever before been + attempted in that way, in Albany, great as are the liberties that are + often taken with the neighbours' hen-coops.” + </p> + <p> + And she laughed, and this time it was naturally, and without the least + restraint. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will not think it shabby in me, if I seem to wish to throw all + the blame on this harum-scarum Guert Ten Eyck. He drew me into both + affairs, and into the last, in a great measure, innocently and + ignorantly.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is understood, and so it would be understood, the moment Guert Ten + Eyck was found to be connected with the affair at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I may hope, then, to be forgiven, Anneke?” I said, holding out a hand to + invite her to accept it as a pledge of pardon. + </p> + <p> + Anneke did not prudishly decline putting her own little hand in mine, + though I got only the ends of two or three slender delicate fingers; and + her colour increased as she bestowed this grace. + </p> + <p> + “You must ask forgiveness, Corny,” she answered,—I believe she now + used this familiar name simply to show how completely she had forgotten + the little spleen she had certainly felt at my untoward exhibition in the + street.—“You must ask forgiveness of those who possess the right to + pardon. If Corny Littlepage chooses to slide down hill, like a boy, what + right has Anneke Mordaunt to say him nay?” + </p> + <p> + “Every right in the world—the right of friendship—the right of + a superior mind, of superior manners—the right that my——” + </p> + <p> + “Hush!—that is Mr. Bulstrode's footstep in the passage, and he will + not understand this discussion on the subject of my manifold rights. It + takes him some time, however, to throw aside his overcoats, and furs, and + sword; and I will just tell you that Guert Ten Eyck is a dangerous master + of ceremonies for Corny Littlepage.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet, he has sense enough, feeling enough, <i>heart</i> enough to admire + and love Mary Wallace.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he told you this, so soon! But, I need not ask, as he tells his love + to every one who will listen.” + </p> + <p> + “And to Miss Wallace herself, I trust, among the number. The man who + loves, and loves truly, should not long permit its object to remain in any + doubt of his feelings and intentions. It has ever appeared to me, Miss + Mordaunt, as a most base and dastardly feeling in a man to wish to be + certain of a woman's returning his love, before he has the manliness to + let his mistress understand his wishes. How is a sensitive female to know + when she is safe in yielding her affections, without this frankness on the + part of her suitor? I'll answer for it that Guert Ten Eyck has dealt thus + honestly and frankly with Mary Wallace.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a merit which cannot be denied him,” answered Anneke, in a low, + thoughtful tone of voice. “Mary has heard this from his own mouth, again + and again. Even my presence has been no obstacle to his declarations, for + three times have I heard him beg Mary to consider him as a suitor for her + hand, and entreat her not to decide on his offer until he has had a longer + opportunity to win her esteem.” + </p> + <p> + “And this you will admit, Miss Mordaunt, is to his credit, is manly, and + like himself?” + </p> + <p> + “It is certainly frank and honourable, Mr. Littlepage, since it enables + Miss Wallace to understand the object of his attentions, and leaves + nothing to doubt, or uncertainty.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you approve of such fair and frank proceedings;—though + but a moment remains to say what I wish, it will suffice to add, that the + course Guert Ten Eyck has taken towards Mary Wallace, Cornelius Littlepage + would wish to pursue towards Anneke Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke started, turned pale; then showed cheeks that were suffused with + blushes, and looked at me with timid surprise. She made no answer; though + that earnest, yet timid gaze, long remained, and for that matter, still + remains, vividly impressed upon my recollection. It seemed to express + astonishment, startled sensibility, feminine bashfulness, and maiden + coyness; but it did not appear to me that it expressed displeasure. There + was no time, however, to ask for explanations, since the voices of Herman + Mordaunt and Bulstrode were now heard at the very door, and, at the next + instant, both entered the room. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-23" id="linknote-23"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 23 (<a href="#linknoteref-23">return</a>)<br /> [ The American Mayor is + usually a different person from the English Mayor. Until within the last + five-and-twenty or thirty years, the Mayor of New York was invariably a + man of social and political importance, belonging strictly to the higher + class of society. The same was true of the Mayor of Albany. At the present + time, the rule has been so far enlarged, as to admit a selection from all + of the more reputable classes, without any rigid adherence to the highest. + The elective principle has produced the change. During the writer's + boyhood, Philip Van Rensselaer, the brother of the late Patroon, was so + long Mayor of Albany, as to be universally known by the <i>sobriquet</i> + of “The Mayor.”—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-24" id="linknote-24"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 24 (<a href="#linknoteref-24">return</a>)<br /> [ This opinion of the + constable's must refer to the notion common amongst the non-Episcopal + sects, that the value of spiritual provender was to be measured by the + quantity. Preaching, however, <i>might</i> be overdone in the Dutch + Reformed Churches; for, quite within my recollection, a half-hour glass + stood on the pulpit of the Dutch edifice named in the text, to regulate + the dominie's wind. It was said it might be turned <i>once</i> with + impunity; but wo betide him who should so far trespass on his people's + patience as to presume to turn it <i>twice</i>.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My beautiful! my beautiful! that standest meekly by, + With thy proudly arch'd and glossy neck, and dark and fiery eye— + + “Thus, thus I leap upon thy back, and scour the distant plains: + Away! who overtakes me now, shall claim thee for his pains.” + + <i>The Arab to his Steed</i>. +</pre> + <p> + Bulstrode seemed happy to meet me, complaining that I had quite forgotten + the satisfaction with which all New York, agreeably to his account of the + matter, had received me the past spring. Of course, I thanked him for his + civility; and we soon became as good friends as formerly. In a minute or + two, Mary Wallace joined us, and we all repaired to the breakfast-table, + where we were soon joined by Dirck, who had been detained by some affairs + of his own. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt and Bulstrode had the conversation principally to + themselves for the first few minutes. Mary Wallace was habitually silent; + but Anneke, without being loquacious, was sufficiently disposed to + converse. This morning, however, she said little beyond what the + civilities of the table required from the mistress of the house, and that + little in as few words as possible. Once or twice I could not help + remarking that her hand remained on the handle of a richly-chased tea-pot, + after that hand had performed its office; and that her sweet, deep blue + eye was fixed on vacancy, or on some object before her with a vacant + regard, in the manner of one that thought intensely. Each time as she + recovered from these little <i>reveries</i>, a slight flush appeared on + her face, and she seemed anxious to conceal the involuntary abstraction. + This absence of mind continued until Bulstrode, who had been talking with + our host on the subject of the movements of the army, suddenly directed + his discourse to me. + </p> + <p> + “I hope we owe this visit to Albany,” he said, “to an intention on your + part, Mr. Littlepage, to make one among us in the next campaign. I hear of + many gentlemen of the colonies who intend to accompany us in our march to + Quebec.” + </p> + <p> + “That is somewhat farther than I had thought of going Mr. Bulstrode,” was + my answer, “inasmuch as I have never supposed the king's forces + contemplated quite so distant a march. It is the intention of Mr. Follock + and myself to get permission to attach ourselves to some regiment and to + go forward as far as Ticonderoga, at least; for we do not like the idea of + the French holding a post like that, so far within the limits of our own + province.” + </p> + <p> + “Bravely said, sir; and I trust I shall be permitted to be of some + assistance when the time comes to settle details. Our mess would always be + happy to see you; and you know that I am at its head, since the Lt. + Colonel has left us.” + </p> + <p> + I returned my thanks, and the discourse took another direction. + </p> + <p> + “I met Harris, as I was walking hither this morning,” Bulstrode continued, + “and he gave me, in his confused Irish way—for I insist he is Irish, + although he was born in London—but he gave me a somewhat queer + account of a supper he was at last night, which he said had been borne off + by a foraging party of young Albanians, and brought into the barracks, as + a treat to some of our gentlemen. This was bad enough, though they tell me + a Dutchman always pardons such a frolic; but Harris makes the matter much + worse, by adding that the supperless party indemnified itself by making an + attack on the kitchen of Mr. Mayor, and carrying off his ducks and + partridges, in a way to leave him without even a potatoe!” + </p> + <p> + I felt that my face was as red as scarlet, and I fancied everybody was + looking at me, while Herman Mordaunt took on himself the office of making + a reply. + </p> + <p> + “The story does not lose in travelling, as a matter of course,” answered + our host, “though it is true in the main. We all supped with Mr. Cuyler + last evening, and know that he had much more than a potatoe on the table.” + </p> + <p> + “All!—What, the ladies?” + </p> + <p> + “Even to the ladies—and Mr. Littlepage in the bargain,” returned + Herman Mordaunt, casting a glance at me, and smiling. “Each and all of us + will testify he not only had a plenty of supper, but that which was good.” + </p> + <p> + “I see by the general smile,” cried Bulstrode, “that them is a <i>sous + entendu</i> here, and shall insist on being admitted to the secret.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt now told the whole story, not being particularly careful + to conceal the more ludicrous parts, dwelling with some emphasis on the + lecture Mr. Worden had delivered to Doortje, and appealing to me to know + whether I did not think it excellent. Bulstrode laughed, of course; though + I fancied both the young ladies wished nothing had been said on the + subject. Anneke even attempted, once or twice, to divert her father from + certain comments that he made, in which he spoke rather lightly of such + sort of amusements, in general. + </p> + <p> + “That Guert Ten Eyck is a character!” exclaimed Bulstrode, “and one I am + sometimes at a loss to comprehend. A more manly-looking, fine, bold young + fellow, I do not know; and he is often as manly and imposing in his + opinions and judgments, as he is to the eye; while, at times, he is almost + childish in his tastes and propensities. How do you account for this, Miss + Anneke?” + </p> + <p> + “Simply, that nature intended Guert Ten Eyck for better things than + accident and education, or the want of education, have enabled him to + become. Had Guert Ten Eyck been educated at Oxford, he would have been a + very different man from what he is. If a man has only the instruction of a + boy, he will long remain a boy.” + </p> + <p> + I was surprised at the boldness and decision of this opinion, for it was + not Anneke's practice to be so open in delivering her sentiments of + others; but, it was not long ere I discovered that she did not spare + Guert, in the presence of her friend, from a deep conviction he was not + worthy of the hold he was sensibly gaining on the feelings of Mary + Wallace. Herman Mordaunt, as I fancied, favoured his daughter's views in + this behalf; and there was soon occasion to observe that poor Guert had no + other ally, in that family, than the one his handsome, manly person, open + disposition, and uncommon frankness had created in his mistress's own + bosom. There was certainly a charm in Guert's habitual manner of + underrating himself, that inclined all who heard him to his side; and, for + myself, I will confess I early became his friend in all that matter, and + so continued to the last. + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode and I left the house together, walking arm and arm to his + quarters, leaving Dirck with the ladies. + </p> + <p> + “This is a charming family,” said my companion, as we left the door; “and + I feel proud of being able to claim some affinity to it, though it is not + so near as I trust it may one day become.” + </p> + <p> + I started, almost twitching my arm away from that of the Major's, turning + half round, at the same instant, to look him in the face. Bulstrode + smiled, but preserved his own self-possession, in the stoical manner + common to men of fashion and easy manners, pursuing the discourse. + </p> + <p> + “I see that my frankness has occasioned you some little surprise,” he + added; “but the truth is the truth; and I hold it to be unmanly for a + gentleman who has made up his mind to become the suitor of a lady, to make + any secret of his intentions;—is not that your own way of thinking, + Mr. Littlepage?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, as respects the lady; and possibly, as respects her family; + but not as respects all the world.” + </p> + <p> + “I take your distinction, which may be a good one, in ordinary cases; + though, in the instance of Anneke Mordaunt, it may be merciful to let + wandering young men, like yourself, Corny, comprehend the real state of + the case. I very well understand your own particular relation to the + family of the Mordaunts; but others may approach it with different and + more interested views.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I to understand, Mr. Bulstrode, that Miss Mordaunt is your betrothed?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! by no means; for she has not yet made up her mind to accept me. You + are to understand, however, that I have proposed to Herman Mordaunt, with + my father's knowledge and approbation, and that the affair is <i>in petto</i>. + You can judge for yourself of the probable termination, being a better + judge, as a looker-on, than I, as a party interested, of Anneke's manner + of viewing my suit.” + </p> + <p> + “You will remember I have not seen you together these ten months, until + this morning; and I presume you do not wish me to suppose you have been + waiting all that time for an answer.” + </p> + <p> + “As I consider you an <i>ami de famille</i>, Corny, there is no reason why + there should not be a fair statement of things laid before you, for that + affair of the lion will ever render you half a Mordaunt, yourself. I had + proposed to Anneke, when you first saw me, and got the usual lady-like + answer that the dear creature was too young to think of contracting + herself, which was certainly truer then than now; that I had friends at + home who ought to be consulted, that time must be given, or the answer + would necessarily be 'no', and all the usual substance of such replies, in + the preliminary state of a negotiation.” + </p> + <p> + “And there the matter has stood ever since?” + </p> + <p> + “By no means, my dear fellow; as far from that as possible. I heard Herman + Mordaunt, for he did most of the talking on that side, with the patience + of a saint, observed how proper it all was, and stated my intention to lay + every thing before my father, and then advance to the assault anew, + reinforced by his consent, and authority to offer settlements.” + </p> + <p> + “All of which you got, by return of vessel, on writing home?” I added, + unable to imagine how any man could hesitate about receiving Anneke + Mordaunt for a daughter-in-law. + </p> + <p> + “Why, not exactly by return of vessel, though Sir Harry is much too + well-bred to neglect answering a letter. I never knew him to do such a + thing in his life; no, not when I have pushed him a little closely on the + subject of my allowance having been out before the quarter was up, as will + sometimes happen at college, you know, Corny. To tell you the truth, my + dear boy, Sir Harry's consent did <i>not</i> come by return of vessel, + though an answer did. It is a confounded distance across the Atlantic, and + it takes time to argue a question, when the parties are 'a thousand + leagues asunder.'” + </p> + <p> + “Argue!—What argument could be required to convince Sir Harry + Bulstrode of the propriety of your getting Anneke Mordaunt for a wife, <i>if + you could?</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Quite plain and sincere, upon my honour!—But, I love you for the + simplicity of your character, Corny, and so shall view all favourably. If + I <i>could!</i> Well, we shall know at the end of the approaching + campaign, when you and I come back from our trip to Quebec.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not answered my question, in the mean time, concerning Sir Harry + Bulstrode.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg Sir Harry's and your pardon. What argument could be required to + convince my father?—Why, you have never been at home, Littlepage, + and cannot easily understand, therefore, what the feeling is precisely in + relation to the colonies—much depends on that, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust the mother loves her children, as I am certain the children love + their mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you are all loyal;—I will say that for you, though Albany is + not exactly Bath, or New York, Westminster. I suppose you know, + Littlepage, that the church upon the hill, yonder, which is called St. + Peter's, though a very good church, and a very respectable church, with a + very reputable congregation, is not exactly Westminster Abbey, or even St. + James's?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe I understand you, sir; and so Sir Harry proved obstinate?” + </p> + <p> + “As the devil!—It took no less than three letters, the last of which + was pretty bold, to get him round, which I did at last, and his consent, + in due form, has been handed in to Herman Mordaunt. I contended, with some + advantages in the affair, or I never should have prevailed. But, you will + see how it was. Sir Harry is gouty and asthmatic both, and no great things + of a life, at the best, and every acre he has on earth is entailed; just + making the whole thing a question of time.” + </p> + <p> + “All of which you communicated, of course, to Anneke and Herman Mordaunt?” + </p> + <p> + “If I did I'll be hanged! No, no; Master Corny, I am not so green as that + would imply. You provincials are as thin-skinned as <i>raisons de + Fontainbleau</i>, and are not to be touched so rudely. I do not believe + Anneke would marry the Duke of Norfolk himself, if the family raised the + least scruple about receiving her.” + </p> + <p> + “And would not Anneke be right, in acting under so respectable a feeling?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you know she would only marry the duke, and not his mother, and + aunts, and uncles. I cannot see the necessity of a young woman's making + herself uncomfortable on that account. But, we have not come to that yet + for I would wish you to understand, Littlepage, that I am not accepted, + No, no! justice to Anneke demands that I should say this much. She knows + of Sir Harry's consent, however, and that is a good deal in my favour, you + must allow. I suppose her great objection will be to quitting her father, + who has no other child, and on him it <i>will</i> bear a little hard; and, + then, it is likely she will say something about a change of country, for + you Americans are all great sticklers for living in your own region.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not see how you can justly accuse us of that, since it is + universally admitted among us that everything is better at home than it is + in the colonies.” + </p> + <p> + “I really think, Corny,” rejoined Bulstrode, smiling good-naturedly, “were + you to pay the old island a visit, now, you yourself would confess that + some things <i>are</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “I to visit!—I am at a loss to imagine why I am named as one + disposed to deny it. Had it been Guert Ten Eyck, now, or ever Dirck + Follock, one might imagine such a thing,-but I, who come from English + blood, and who have an English-born grandfather, at this moment, alive and + well at Satanstoe, am not to be included among the disaffected to + England.” + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode pressed my arm, and his conversation took a more confidential + air, as it proceeded. “I believe you are right, Corny,” he said; “the + colony is loyal enough, Heaven knows; yet I find these Dutch look on us + red-coats more coldly than the people of English blood, below. Should it + be ascribed to the phlegm of their manners, or to some ancient grudge + connected with the conquest of their colony?” + </p> + <p> + “Hardly the last, I should think, since the colony was traded away, under + the final arrangement, in exchange for a possession the Dutch now hold in + South America. There is nothing strange, however; in the descendants of + the people of Holland preferring the Dutch to the English.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, Littlepage, the coldness with which we are regarded by the + Albanians has been spoken of among us; though most of the leading families + treat us well, and aid us all they can. They should remember that we are + here to fight, their battles, and to prevent the French from overrunning + them.” + </p> + <p> + “To that they would probably answer that the French would not molest them, + but for their quarrel with England. Here we must part, Mr. Bulstrode, as I + have business to attend to. I will add one word, however, before we + separate, and that is, that King George II. has not more loyal subjects in + his dominions, than those who dwell in his American provinces.” + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode smiled, nodded in assent, waved his hand, and we parted. + </p> + <p> + I had plenty of occupation for the remainder of that day. Yaap arrived + with his 'brigade of sleighs' about noon, and I went in search of Guert, + in whose company I repaired once more to the office of the contractor. + Horses, harness, sleighs, provisions and all were taken at high prices, + and I was paid for the whole in Spanish gold; joes and half-joes being + quite as much in use among us in that day as the coin of the realm. + Spanish silver has always formed our smaller currency, such a thing as an + English shilling, or a sixpence, being quite a stranger among us. Pieces + of eight, or dollars, are our commonest coin, it is true, but we make good + use of the half-joe in all heavy transactions. I have seen two or three + Bank of England notes in my day, but they are of very rare occurrence in + the colonies. There have been colony bills among us, but they are not + favourites, most of our transactions being carried on by means of the + Spanish gold and Spanish silver, that find their way up from the islands + and the Spanish main. The war of which I am now writing, however, brought + a great many guineas among us, most of the troops being paid in that + species of coin; but the contractors, in general, found it easier to + command the half-joe than the guinea. Of the former, when all our sales + were made, Dirck and myself had, between us, no less than one hundred and + eleven, or eight hundred and eighty-eight dollars in value. + </p> + <p> + I found Guert just as ready and just as friendly on this occasion, as he + had been on the previous day. Not only were all our effects disposed of, + but all our negroes were hired to the army for the campaign, Yaap + excepted. The boys went off with their teams towards the north that same + afternoon, in high spirits, as ready for a frolic as any white youths in + the colony. I permitted Yaap to go on with his sleigh, to be absent for a + few days, but he was to return and join us before we proceeded in quest of + the 'Patent,' after the breaking up of the winter. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the afternoon before everything was settled, when Guert + invited me to take a turn with him on the river in his own sleigh. By this + time I had ascertained that my new friend was a young man of very handsome + property, without father or mother, and that he lived in as good style as + was common for the simple habits of those around him. Our principal + families in New York were somewhat remarkable for the abundance of their + plate, table-linen, and other household effects of the latter character, + while here and there one was to be found that possessed some good + pictures. The latter, I have reason to think, however, were rare, though + occasionally the work of a master did find its way to America, + particularly from Holland and Flanders. Guert kept bachelor's hall, in a + respectable house, that had its gable to the street, as usual, and which + was of no great size; but everything about it proved that his old black + housekeeper had been trained under a <i>regime</i> of thorough neatness; + for that matter, everything around Albany wore the appearance of being + periodically scoured. The streets themselves could not undergo that + process with snow on the ground; but once beneath a roof, and everything + that had the character of dirt was banished. In this particular Guert's + bachelor residence was as faultless as if it had a mistress at its head, + and that mistress were Mary Wallace. + </p> + <p> + “If she ever consent to have me,” said Guert, actually sighing as he + spoke, and glancing his eyes round the very pretty little parlour I had + just been praising, on the occasion of the visit I first made to his + residence that afternoon; “if she ever consent to have me, Corny, I shall + have to build a new house. This is now a hundred years old, and though it + was thought a great affair in its day, it is not half good enough for Mary + Wallace. My dear fellow, how I; envy you that invitation to breakfast this + morning! what a favourite you must be with Herman Mordaunt!” + </p> + <p> + “We are very good friends, Guert,”—for, with the freedom of our + colony manners, we had already dropped into the familiarity of calling + each other 'Corny' and 'Guert'—“we are very good friends, Guert,” I + answered, “and, I have some reason to think, Herman Mordaunt does not + dislike me. It was in my power to be of a trifling service to Miss Anneke, + last spring, and the whole family is disposed to remember it.” + </p> + <p> + “So I can see, at a glance; even Anneke remembers it. I have heard the + whole story from Mary Wallace; it was about a lion. I would give half of + what I am worth, to see Mary Wallace in the paws of a lion, or any other + wild beast; just to let her see that Guert Ten Eyck has a heart, as well + as Corny Littlepage. But, Corny my boy, there is one thing you must do; + you are in such favour, that it will be easy for you to effect it; though + I might try in vain, for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do anything that is proper, to oblige you, Guert, for you have a + claim on me for services rendered by yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Pshaw!—Say nothing of such matters; I am never happier than when + buying or selling a horse; and, in helping you to get off your old cattle, + why, I did the King no harm, and you some good. But, it was about horses I + was thinking. You must know, Littlepage, there is not a young man, or an + old man, within twenty miles of Albany, that drives such a pair of beasts + as myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You surely do not wish me to sell these horses to Mary Wallace, Guert!” I + rejoined, laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, my lad; and this house, and the old farm, and two or three stores + along the river; and all I have, provided you can sell me with them. As + the ladies have no present use for horses, however, Herman Mordaunt having + brought up with him a very good pair, that came near running over you and + me, Corny; so there is no need of any sale; but I <i>should</i> like to + drive Mary and Anneke a turn of a few miles, with that team of mine, and + in my own sleigh!” + </p> + <p> + “That cannot prove such a difficult affair; young ladies, ordinarily, + consenting readily enough to be diverted with a sleigh-ride.” + </p> + <p> + “The off-one carries himself more like a colonel, at the head of his + regiment, than like an ignorant horse!” + </p> + <p> + “I will propose the matter to Herman Mordaunt, or to Anneke, herself, if + you desire it.” + </p> + <p> + “And the near-one has the movement of a lady in a minuet, when you rein + him in a little. I drove those cattle, Corny, across the pine-plains, to + Schenectady, in one hour and twenty-six minutes;—sixteen miles, as + the crow flies—and nearer sixty, if you follow all the turnings of + the fifty roads.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what am I to do? tell this to the ladies, or beg them to name a + day?” + </p> + <p> + “Name a day!—I wish it had come to <i>that</i>. Corny, with my whole + soul. They are two beauties!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think everybody will admit <i>that</i>,” I answered innocently; + “yet, very different in their charms.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! not a bit more alike than is just necessary for a good match. I call + one Jack, and the other Moses. I never knew an animal that was named + 'Jack,' who would not do his work. I would give a great deal, Corny, that + Mary Wallace could see that horse move!” + </p> + <p> + I promised Guert that I would use all my influence with the ladies, to + induce them to trust themselves with his team, and, in order that I might + speak with authority, the sleigh was ordered round to the door forthwith, + with a view first to take a turn with me. The winter equipage of Guert Ten + Eyck was really a tasteful and knowing thing. I had often seen handsomer + sleighs, in the way of paint, varnish, tops and mouldings; for to these he + appeared to pay very little attention. The points on which its owner most + valued his sleigh, was the admirable manner in which it rested on its + runners—pressing lightly both behind and before. Then the traces + were nearer on a level with the horses, than was common; though not so + high as to affect the draft. The colour, without, was a sky-blue; a + favourite Dutch tint; while within, it was fiery-red. The skins were very + ample: all coming from the grey wolf. As these skins were lined with + scarlet cloth, the effect of the whole was sufficiently cheering and warm. + I ought not to forget the bells. In addition to the four sets buckled to + the harness, the usual accompaniment of every sort of sleigh-harness, + Guert had provided two enormous strings (always leathern straps), that + passed from the saddles quite down under the bodies of Jack and Moses; and + another string around each horse's neck, thus increasing the jingling + music of his march, at least fourfold beyond the usual quantity. <a + href="#linknote-25" name="linknoteref-25" id="linknoteref-25"><small>25</small></a> + </p> + <p> + In this style, then, we dashed from the door of the old Ten Eyck-house; + all the blacks in the street gazing at us in delight, and shaking their + sides with laughter—a negro always expressing his admiration of + anything, even to a sermon, in that mode. I remember to have heard a + traveller who had been as far as Niagara, declare that his black did + nothing but roar with laughter, the first half-hour he stood confronted + with that mighty cataract. + </p> + <p> + Nor did the blacks alone stop to admire Guert Ten Eyck, his sleigh and his + horses. All the young men in the place paid Guert this homage, for he was + unanimously admitted to be the best whip, and the best judge of + horse-flesh, in Albany; that is, the best judge for his years. Several + young women who were out in sleighs, looked behind them, as we passed, + proving that the admiration extended even to the other sex. All this Guert + felt and saw, and its effect was very visible in his manner as he stood + guiding his spirited pair, amid the woodsleds that still crowded the main + street. + </p> + <p> + Our route lay towards the large flats, that extend for miles along the + west shore of the Hudson, to the north of Albany. This was the road + usually taken by the young people of the place, in their evening + sleigh-rides not a few of the better class stopping to pay their respects + to Madame Schuyler, a widow born of the same family as that into which she + had married, and who, from her character, connections and fortune, filled + a high place in the social circle of the vicinity. Guert knew this lady, + and proposed that I should call and pay my respects to her—a tribute + she was accustomed to receive from most strangers of respectability. + Thither, then, we drove as fast as my companion's blacks could carry us. + The distance was only a few miles, and we were soon dashing through the + open gate, into what must have been a very pretty, though an inartificial, + lawn in the summer. + </p> + <p> + “By Jove, we are in luck!” cried Guert, the moment his eyes got a view of + the stables: “Yonder is Herman Mordaunt's sleigh, and we shall find the + ladies here!” + </p> + <p> + All this turned out as Guert had announced. Anneke and Mary Wallace had + dined with Madame Schuyler, and their coats and shawls had just been + brought to them, preparatory to returning home, as we entered. I had heard + so much of Madame Schuyler as not to approach this respectable person + without awe, and I had no eyes at first for her companions. I was well + received by the mistress of the house, a woman of so large a size as to + rise from her chair with great difficulty, but whose countenance expressed + equally intelligence, principles, refinement and benevolence. She no + sooner heard the name of Littlepage, than she threw a meaning glance + towards the young female friends, mine following and perceiving Anneke + colouring highly, and looking a little distressed. As for Mary Wallace she + appeared to me then, as I fancied was usually the case whenever Guert Ten + Eyck approached her, to be struggling with a species of melancholy + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “It is unnecessary for me to hear your mother's name, Mr. Littlepage,” + said Madam Schuyler, extending a hand, “since I knew her as a young woman. + In <i>her</i> name you are welcome; as, indeed, you would be in your own, + after the all-important service I hear you have rendered my sweet young + friend, here.” + </p> + <p> + I could only bow, and express my thanks; but it is unnecessary to say how + grateful to me was praise of this sort, coming, as I knew it must, from + Anneke in the first instance. Still, I could hardly refrain from laughing + at Guert, who shrugged his shoulders, and turned towards me with a look + that repeated his ludicrous regrets he could not see Mary Wallace in a + lion's paws! The conversation then took the usual turn, and I got an + opportunity of speaking to the young ladies. + </p> + <p> + After the character I had heard of Madam Schuyler, I was a good deal + surprised to find that Guert was somewhat of a favourite. But even the + most intellectual and refined women, I have since had occasion to learn, + feel a disposition to judge handsome, manly, frank, flighty fellows like + my new acquaintance, somewhat leniently. With all his levity, and his + disposition to run into the excesses of animal spirits, there was that + about Guert which rendered it difficult to despise him. The courage of a + lion was in his eye, and his front and bearing were precisely those that + are particularly attractive to women. To these advantages were added a + seeming unconsciousness of his superiority to most around him, in the way + of looks, and a humility of spirit that caused him often to deplore his + deficiencies in those accomplishments which characterize the man of study + and of intellectual activity. It was only among the hardy, active, and + reckless, that Guert manifested the least ambition to be a leader. + </p> + <p> + “Do you still drive those spirited blacks, Guert,” demanded Madam + Schuyler, in a gentle, affable way, that inclined her to adapt her + discourse to the tastes of those she might happen to be with; “those, I + mean, which you purchased in the autumn?” + </p> + <p> + “You may be certain of that, aunt,”—every one who could claim the + most distant relationship to this amiable woman, and whose years did not + render the appellation disrespectful, called her “aunt”—“you may be + certain of that, aunt, for their equals are not to be found in <i>this</i> + colony. The gentlemen of the army pretend that no horse can be good that + has not what they call <i>blood</i>; but Jack and Moses are both of the + Dutch breed, and the Schuylers and the Ten Eycks will never own there is + no “blood” in such a stock. I have given each of these animals my own + name, and call them Jack Ten Eyck and Moses Ten Eyck.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will not exclude the Littlepages and the Mordaunts from your + list of dissenters, Mr. Ten Eyck,” observed Anneke, laughing, “since both + have Dutch blood in their veins, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Very true, Miss Anneke; Miss Wallace being the only true, thorough, + Englishwoman here. But, as Aunt Schuyler has spoken of my team, I wish I + could persuade you and Miss Mary to let me drive you back to Albany with + it, this very evening. Your own sleigh can follow and your father's horses + being English, we shall have an opportunity of comparing the two breeds. + The Anglo-Saxons will have no load, while the Flemings will; still I will + wager animal against animal, that the last do the work the most neatly, + and in the shortest time.” + </p> + <p> + To this proposition, however, Anneke would not consent; her instinctive + delicacy, I make no doubt, at once presenting to her mind the impropriety + of quitting her own sleigh, to take an evening's drive in that of a young + man of Guert's established reputation for recklessness and fun, and who + was not always fortunate enough to persuade young women of the first class + to be his companions. The turn the conversation had taken, nevertheless, + had the effect to produce so many urgent appeals, that were seconded by + myself, to give the horses a trial, that Mary Wallace promised to submit + the matter to Herman Mordaunt, and, should he approve, to accompany Guert, + Anneke and myself, in an excursion the succeeding week. + </p> + <p> + This concession was received by poor Guert with profound gratitude; and he + assured me, as we drove back to town, that he had not felt so happy for + the last two months. + </p> + <p> + “It is in the power of such a young woman—young angel, I might + better say,” added Guert, “to make anything she may please of me! I know I + am an idler, and too fond of our Dutch amusements, and that I have not + paid the attention I ought to have paid to books; but let that precious + creature only take me by the hand, and I should turn out an altered man in + a month. Young women can do anything they please with us, Mr. Littlepage, + when they set their minds about it in earnest. I wish I was a horse, to + have the pleasure of dragging Mary Wallace in this excursion!” + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-25" id="linknote-25"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 25 (<a href="#linknoteref-25">return</a>)<br /> [ As it is possible this + book may pass into the hands of others than Americans, it maybe well to + say that a sleigh-bell is a small hollow ball, made of bell-metal, having + a hole in it that passes round half of its circumference, and containing a + small <i>solid</i> ball, of a size not to escape. These bells are fastened + to leathern straps, which commonly pass round the necks of the horses. In + the time of Guert Ten Eyck, most of the bells were attached to small + plates, that were buckled to various parts of the harness; but, as this + caused a motion annoying to the animals, Mr. Littlepage evidently wishes + his readers to understand that his friend, Ten Eyck, was too knowing to + have recourse to the practice. Even the straps are coming into disuse, the + opinion beginning to obtain that sleigh-bells are a nuisance, instead of + an advantage. Twenty years since, the laws of most large towns rendered + them necessary, under the pretence of preventing accidents by apprising + the footman of the approach of a sleigh; but more horses are now driven, + in the state of New York, without than with bells, in winter. + </p> + <p> + “Sleigh,” as spelt, is purely an American word. It is derived from “slee,” + in Dutch; which is pronounced like “sleigh.” Some persons contend; that + the Americans ought to use the old English words “sled,” or: “sledge.” But + these words do not precisely express the things we possess. There is as + much reason for calling a pleasure conveyance by a name different from + “sled,” as there is for saying “coach” instead of “wagon.” “Sleigh” <i>will</i> + become English, ere long, as it is now American. Twenty millions of people + not only can make a word, but they can make a language, if it be needed.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “When lo! the voice of loud alarm + His inmost soul appals: + What ho! Lord William, rise in haste! + The water saps thy walls!” + + <i>Lord William</i>. +</pre> + <p> + The visit to Madam Schuyler occurred of a Saturday evening; and the matter + of our adventure in company with Jack and Moses, was to be decided on the + following Monday. When I rose and looked out of my window on the Sunday + morning, however, there appeared but very little prospect of its being + effected that spring, inasmuch as it rained heavily, and there was a fresh + south wind. We had reached the 21st of March, a period of the year when a + decided thaw was not only ominous to the sleighing, but when it actually + predicted a permanent breaking up of the winter. The season had been late, + and it was thought the change could not be distant. + </p> + <p> + The rain and south wind continued all that day, and torrents of water came + rushing down the short, steep streets, effectually washing away everything + like snow. Mr. Worden preached, notwithstanding, and to a very respectable + congregation. Dirck and myself attended; but Jason preferred sitting out a + double half-hour glass sermon in the Dutch church, delivered in a language + of which he understood very little, to lending his countenance to the + rites of the English service. Both Anneke and Mary Wallace found their way + up the hill, going in a carriage; though I observed that Herman Mordaunt + was absent. Guert was in the gallery, in which we also sat; but I could + not avoid remarking that neither of the young ladies raised her eyes once, + during the whole service, as high as our pews. Guert whispered something + about this, as he hastened down stairs to hand them to their carriage, + when the congregation was dismissed, begging me, at the same time, to be + punctual to the appointment for the next day. What he meant by this last + remembrancer, I did not understand; for the hills were beginning to + exhibit their bare breasts, and it was somewhat surprising with what + rapidity a rather unusual amount of snow had disappeared. I had no + opportunity to ask an explanation, as Guert was too busy in placing the + ladies in the carriage, and the weather was not such as to admit of my + remaining a moment longer in the street than was indispensably necessary. + </p> + <p> + A change occurred in the weather during the night, the rain having ceased, + though the atmosphere continued mild, and the wind was still from the + south. It was the commencement of the spring; and, as I walked round to + Guert Ten Eyck's house, to meet him at breakfast, I observed that several + vehicles with wheels were already in motion in the streets, and that + divers persons appeared to be putting away their sleighs and sleds, as + things of no further use, until the next winter. Our springs do not + certainly come upon us as suddenly as some of which I have read, in the + old world; but when the snow and winter endure as far into March as had + been the case with that of the year 1758, the change is often nearly + magical. + </p> + <p> + “Here, then, is the spring opening,” I said to Dirck, as we walked along + the well-washed streets; “and, in a few weeks, we must be off to the bush. + Our business on the Patent must be got along with, before the troops are + put in motion, or we may lose the opportunity of seeing a campaign.” + </p> + <p> + With such expectations and feelings I entered Guert's bachelor abode; and + the first words I uttered, were to sympathize in his supposed + disappointment. + </p> + <p> + “It is a great pity you did not propose the drive to the ladies for + Saturday,” I began; “for that was not only a mild day, but the sleighing + was excellent. As it is, you will have to postpone your triumph until next + winter.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you!” cried Guert; “Jack and Moses never were in + better heart, or in better condition. I think they are equal to going to + Kinderhook in two hours!” + </p> + <p> + “But who will furnish the roads with snow? By looking out of the window, + you will see that the streets are nearly bare.” + </p> + <p> + “Streets and roads! Who cares for either, while we have the river? We + often use the river here, weeks at a time, when the snow has left us. The + ice has been remarkably even the whole of this winter, and, now the snow + is off it, there will be no danger from the air-holes.” + </p> + <p> + I confess I did not much like the notion of travelling twenty miles on the + ice, but was far too much of a man to offer any objections. + </p> + <p> + We breakfasted, and proceeded in a body to the residence of Herman + Mordaunt. When the ladies first heard that we had come to claim the + redemption of the half-promise given at Madam Schuyler's, their surprise + was not less than mine had been, half an hour before, while their + uneasiness was probably greater. + </p> + <p> + “Surely, Jack and Moses cannot exhibit all their noble qualities without + snow!” exclaimed Anneke, laughing, “Ten Eycks though they be!” + </p> + <p> + “We Albanians have the advantage of travelling on the ice, when the snow + fails us,” answered Guert. “Here is the river, near by, and never was the + sleighing on it, better than at this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “But, it has been many times safer, I should think. This looks very much + like the breaking up of winter!” + </p> + <p> + “That is probable enough, and so much greater the reason why we should not + delay, if you and Miss Mary ever intend to learn what the blacks can do. + It is for the honour of Holland that I desire it, else would I not presume + so far. I feel every condescension of this sort, that I receive from you + two ladies, in a way I cannot express; for no one Knows, better than + myself, how unworthy I am of your smallest notice.” + </p> + <p> + This brought the signs of yielding, at once, into the mild countenance of + Mary Wallace. Guert's self-humiliation never failed to do this. There was + so much obvious truth in his admission, so sincere a disposition to place + himself where nature and education, or a <i>want</i> of education had + placed him, and most of all, so profound a deference for the mental + superiority of Mary herself, that the female heart found it impossible to + resist. To my surprise, Guert's mistress, contrary to her habit in such + things, was the first to join him, and to second his proposal. Herman + Mordaunt entering the room at this instant, the whole thing was referred + to him, as in reason it ought to have been. + </p> + <p> + “I remember to have travelled on the Hudson, a few years since,” returned + Herman Mordaunt, “the entire distance between Albany and Sing-Sing, and a + very good time we had of it; much better than had we gone by land, for + there was little or no snow.” + </p> + <p> + “Just our case now, Miss Anneke!” cried Guert. “Good sleighing on the + river, but none on the land.” + </p> + <p> + “Was that near the end of March, dear Papa?” asked Anneke, a little + inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + “No, certainly not, for it was early in February, But the ice, at this + moment, must be near eighteen inches thick, and strong enough to bear a + load of hay.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Masser Herman,” observed Cato, a grey-headed black, who had never + called his master by any other name, having known him from an infant; + “yes, Masser Herman, a load do come over dis minute.” + </p> + <p> + It appeared unreasonable to distrust the strength of the ice, after this + proof to the contrary, and Anneke submitted. The party was arranged + forthwith, and in the following manner:—The two ladies, Guert and + myself, were to be drawn by the blacks, while Herman Mordaunt, Dirck, and + any one else they could enlist, were to follow in the New York sleigh. It + was hoped that an elderly female connection, Mrs. Bogart, who resided at + Albany, would consent to be of the party, as the plan was to visit and + dine with another and a mutual connection of the Mordaunts, at Kinderhook, + While the sleighs were getting ready, Herman Mordaunt walked round to the + house of Mrs. Bogart, made his request, and was successful. + </p> + <p> + The clock in the tower of the English church struck ten, as both sleighs + drove from Herman Mordaunt's door. There was literally no snow in the + middle of the streets; but enough of it, mingled with ice, was still to be + found nearer the houses, to enable us to get down to the ferry, the point + where sleighs usually went upon the river. Here Herman Mordaunt, who was + in advance, checked his horses, and turned to speak to Guert on the + propriety of proceeding. The ice near the shore had evidently been moved, + the river having risen a foot or two, in consequence of the wind and the + thaw, and there was a sort of icy wave cast up near the land, over which + it was indispensable to pass, in order to get fairly on the river. As the + top of this ridge, or wave, was broken, it exposed a fissure that enabled + us to see the thickness of the ice, and this Guert pointed out in proof of + its strength. There was nothing unusual in a small movement of the + covering of the river, which the current often produces; but, unless the + vast fields below got in motion, it was impossible for those above + materially to change their positions. Sleighs were passing, too, still + bringing to town, hay from the flats on the eastern bank, and there was no + longer any hesitation. Herman Mordaunt's sleigh passed slowly over the + ridge, having a care to the legs of the horses, and ours followed in the + same cautious manner, though the blacks jumped across the fissure in spite + of their master's exertions. + </p> + <p> + Once on the river, however, Guert gave his blacks the whip and rein, and + away we went like the wind. The smooth, icy surface of the Hudson was our + road, the thaw having left very few traces of any track. The water had all + passed beneath the ice, through cracks and fissures of one sort and + another, leaving us an even, dry, surface to trot on. The wind was still + southerly, though scarcely warm, while a bright sun contributed to render + our excursion as gay to the eye, as it certainly was to our feelings. In a + few minutes every trace of uneasiness had vanished. Away we went, the + blacks doing full credit to their owner's boasts, seeming scarcely to + touch tke ice, from which their feet appeared to rebound with a sort of + elastic force. Herman Mordaunt's bays followed on our heels, and the + sleighs had passed over the well-known shoal of the Overslaugh, within the + first twenty minutes after they touched the river. + </p> + <p> + Every northern American is familiar with the effect that the motion of a + sleigh produces on the spirits, under favourable circumstances. Had our + party been altogether composed of Albanians, there would probably have + been no drawback on the enjoyment, for use would have prevented + apprehension; but it required the few minutes I have mentioned to give + Anneke and Mary Wallace full confidence in the ice. By the time we reached + the Overslaugh, however, their fears had vanished; and Guert confirmed + their sense of security, by telling them to listen to the sounds produced + by his horses' hoofs, which certainty conveyed the impression of moving on + a solid foundation. + </p> + <p> + Mary Wallace had never before been so gay in my presence, as she appeared + to be that morning. Once, or twice, I fancied her eyes almost as bright as + those of Anneke's, and certainly her laugh was as sweet and musical. Both + the girls were full of spirits, and some little things occurred that gave + me hopes Bulstrode had no reason to fancy himself as secure, as he + sometimes seemed to be. A casual remark of Guert's had the effect to bring + out some of Anneke's private sentiments on the subject; or, at least, so + they appeared to be to me. + </p> + <p> + “I am surprised that Mr. Mordaunt forgot to invite Mr. Bulstrode to be one + of our party, to-day,” cried Guert, when we were below the Overslaugh. + “The Major loves sleighing, and he would have filled the fourth seat, in + the other sleigh, very agreeably. As for coming into this, that would be + refused him, were he even a general!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bulstrode is English,” answered Anneke, with spirit, “and fancies + American amusements beneath the tastes of one who has been presented at + the Court of St. James.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Anneke, I cannot say that I agree with you at all, in this + opinion of Mr. Bulstrode,” Guert returned, innocently. “It is true, he is + English; that he fancies an advantage, as does Corny Littlepage, here; but + we must make proper allowances for home-love and foreign-dislike.” + </p> + <p> + “'Corny Littlepage, here,' is only <i>half</i> English, and that half is + colony-born and colony-bred,” answered the laughing girl, “and he has + loved a sleigh from the time when he first slid down hill—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Miss Anneke—let me entreat—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! no allusion is intended to the Dutch church and its neighbourhood;—but, + the sports of childhood are always dear to us, as are sometimes the + discomforts. Habit and prejudice are sister hand-maidens; and I never see + one of these gentlemen from home, taking extraordinary interest in any of + our peculiarly colony usages, but I distrusted an extra amount of + complaisance, or a sort of enjoyment in which we do not strictly share.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this altogether liberal to Bulstrode, Miss Anneke,” I ventured to put + in; “he seems to like us, and I am sure he has good reason so to do. That + he likes <i>some</i> of us, is too apparent to be concealed or denied.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bulstrode is a skilful actor, as all who saw his Cato must be aware,” + retorted the charming girl, compressing her pouting lips in a way that + seemed to me to be inexpressibly pleasing; “and those who saw his Scrub + must be equally convinced of the versatility of his talents. No, no; Major + Bulstrode is better where he is, or will be to-day, at four o'clock—at + the head of the mess of the ——th, instead of dining in a snug + Dutch parlour, with my cousin, worthy Mrs. van der Heyden, at a dinner got + up with colony hospitality, and colony good-will, and colony plainness. + The entertainment we shall receive to-day, sweetened, as it will be, by + the welcome which will come from the heart, can have no competitor in + countries where a messenger must be sent two days before the visit, to ask + permission to come, in order to escape cold looks and artificial surprise. + I would prefer surprising my friends from the heart, instead of from the + head.” + </p> + <p> + Guert expressed his astonishment that any one should not always be glad + and willing to receive his friends; and insisted on it, that no such + inhospitable customs <i>could</i> exist. I knew, however, that society + could not exist on the same terms, in old and in new countries—among + a people that was pressed upon by numbers, and a people that had not yet + felt the evils of a superabundant population. Americans are like dwellers + in the country, who are always glad to see their friends; and I ventured + to say something of the causes of these differences in habits. + </p> + <p> + Nothing occurred worthy of being dwelt on, in our ride to Kinderhook. Mrs. + Van der Heyden resided at a short distance from the river, and the blacks + and the bays had some little difficulty in dragging us through the mud to + her door. Once there, however, our welcome fully verified the theory of + the colony habits, which had been talked over in our drive down. Anneke's + worthy connection was not only glad to see her, as anybody might have + been, but she would have been glad to receive as many as her house would + hold. Few excuses were necessary, for we were all welcome. The visit would + retard her dinner an hour, as was frankly admitted—but that was + nothing; and cakes and wine were set before us in the interval, did we + feel hungry in consequence of a two hours' ride. Guert was desired to make + free, and go to the stables to give his own orders. In a word, our + reception was just that which every colonist has experienced, when he has + gone unexpectedly to visit a friend, or a friend's friend. Our dinner was + excellent, though not accompanied by much form. The wine was good; Mrs. + van der Heyden's deceased husband having been a judge of what was + desirable in that respect. Everybody was in good-humour; and our hostess + insisted on giving us coffee before we took our departure. + </p> + <p> + “There will be a moon, cousin Herman,” she said, “and the night will be + both light and pleasant. Guert knows the road, which cannot well be + missed, as it is the river; and if you quit me at eight, you will reach + home in good season to go to rest. It is so seldom I see you, that I have + a right to claim every minute you can spare. There remains much to be told + concerning our old friends and mutual relatives.” + </p> + <p> + When such words are accompanied by looks and acts that prove their + sincerity, it is not easy to tear ourselves away from a pleasant house. We + chatted on, laughed, listened to stories and colony anecdotes that carried + us back to the last war, and heard a great many eulogiums on beaux and + belles, that we young people had, all our lives, considered as + respectable, elderly, commonplace sort of persons. + </p> + <p> + At length the hour arrived when even Mrs. Bogart herself admitted we ought + to part. Anneke and Mary were kissed, enveloped in their furs, and kissed + again, and then we took our leave. As we left the house, I remarked that a + clock in the passage struck eight. In a few minutes every one was placed, + and the runners were striking fire from the flints of the bare ground. We + had less difficulty in descending than in ascending the bank of the river, + though there was no snow. It did not absolutely freeze, nor had it + actually frozen since the commencement of the thaw, but the earth had + stiffened since the disappearance of the sun. I was much rejoiced when the + blacks sprang upon the ice, and whirled us away, on our return road at a + rate even exceeding the speed with which they had come down it in the + morning. I thought it high time we should be in motion on our return; and + in motion we were, if flying at the rate of eleven miles in the hour could + thus be termed. + </p> + <p> + The light of the moon was not clear and bright, for there was a haze in + the atmosphere, as is apt to occur in the mild weather of March; but there + was enough to enable Guert to dash ahead with as great a velocity as was + at all desirable. We were all in high spirits; us two young men so much + the more, because each of us fancied he had seen that day evidence of a + tender interest existing in the heart of his mistress towards himself. + Mary Wallace had managed, with a woman's tact, to make her suitor appear + even respectable in female society, and had brought out in him many + sentiments that denoted a generous disposition and a manly heart, if not a + cultivated intellect; and Guert was getting confidence, and with it the + means of giving his capacity fairer play. As for Anneke, she now knew my + aim, and I had some right to construe several little symptoms of feeling, + that escaped her in the course of the day, favourably. I fancied that, + gentle as it always was, her voice grew softer, and her smile sweeter and + more winning, as she addressed herself to, or smiled on me; and she did + just enough of both not to appear distant, and just little enough to + appear conscious; at least such were the conjectures of one who I do not + think could be properly accused of too much confidence, and whose natural + diffidence was much increased by the self-distrust of the purest love. + </p> + <p> + Away we went, Guert's complicated chimes of bells jingling their merry + notes in a manner to be heard half a mile, the horses bearing hard on the + bits, for they knew that their own stables lay at the end of their + journey, and Herman Mordaunt's bays keeping so near us that, + notwithstanding the noise we made with our own bells, the sounds of his + were constantly in our ears. An hour went swiftly by, and we had already + passed Coejeman's, and had a hamlet that stretched along the strand, and + which lay quite beneath the high bank of the river, in dim distant view. + This place has since been known by the name of Monkey Town, and is a + little remarkable as being the first cluster of houses on the shores of + the Hudson after quitting Albany. I dare say it has another name in law, + but Guert gave it the appellation I have mentioned. + </p> + <p> + I have said that the night had a sombre, misty, light, the moon wading + across the heavens through a deep but thin ocean of vapour. We saw the + shores plainly enough, and we saw the houses and trees, but it was + difficult to distinguish smaller objects at any distance. In the course of + the day twenty sleighs had been met or passed, but at that hour everybody + but ourselves appeared to have deserted the river. It was getting late for + the simple habits of those who dwelt on its shores. When about half-way + between the islands opposite to Coejeman's and the hamlet just named, + Guert, who stood erect to drive, told us that some one who was out late, + like themselves, was coming down. The horses of the strangers were in a + very fast trot, and the sleigh was evidently inclining towards the west + shore, as if those it held intended to land at no great distance. As it + passed, quite swiftly, a man's voice called out something on a high key, + but our bells made so much noise that it was not easy to understand him. + He spoke in Dutch, too, and none of our ears, those of Guert excepted, + were sufficiently expert in that language to be particularly quick in + comprehending what he said. The call passed unheeded, then, such things + being quite frequent among the Dutch, who seldom passed each other on the + highway without a greeting of some sort or other. I was thinking of this + practice, and of the points that distinguished our own habits from those + of the people of this part of the colony, when sleigh-bells sounded quite + near me, and turning my head, I saw Herman Mordaunt's bays galloping close + to us, as if wishing to get alongside. At the next moment the object was + effected, and Guert pulled up. + </p> + <p> + “Did you understand the man who passed down, Guert?” demanded Herman + Mordaunt, as soon as all noises ceased. + </p> + <p> + “He called out to us, at the top of his voice, and would hardly do that + without an object.” + </p> + <p> + “These men seldom go home, after a visit to Albany, without filling their + jugs,” answered Guert, drily; “what could he have to say, more than to + wish us good-night?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot tell, but Mrs. Bogart thought she understood something about + 'Albany,' and 'the river.'” + </p> + <p> + “The ladies always fancy Albany is to sink into the river after a great + thaw,” answered Guert, good-humouredly; “but I can show either of them + that the ice is sixteen inches thick, here where we stand.” + </p> + <p> + Guert then gave me the reins, stepped out of the sleigh, went a short + distance to a large crack that he had seen while speaking, and returned + with a thumb placed on the handle of the whip, as a measure to show that + his statement was true. The ice, at that spot, was certainly nearer + eighteen than sixteen inches thick. Herman Mordaunt showed the measure to + Mrs. Bogart, whose alarm was pacified by this positive proof. Neither + Anneke nor Mary exhibited any fear; but, on the contrary, as the sleighs + separated again, each had something pleasant, but feminine, to say at the + expense of poor Mrs. Bogart's imagination. + </p> + <p> + I believe I was the only person in our own sleigh who felt any alarm, + after the occurrence of this little incident. Why uneasiness beset <i>me</i>, + I cannot precisely say. It must have been altogether on Anneke's account, + and not in the least on my own. Such accidents as sleighs breaking + through, on our New York lakes and rivers, happened almost every winter, + and horses were often drowned; though it was seldom the consequences + proved so serious to their owners. I recalled to mind the fragile nature + of ice, the necessary effects of the great thaw and the heavy rains, + remembering that frozen water might still retain most of its apparent + thickness, after its consistency was greatly impaired. But, I could do + nothing! If we landed, the roads were impassable for runners, almost for + wheels, and another hour might carry the ladies, by means of the river, to + their comfortable homes. That day, however, which, down to the moment of + meeting the unknown sleigh, had been the very happiest of my life, was + entirely changed in its aspect, and I no longer regarded it with any + satisfaction. Had Anneke been at home, I could gladly have entered into a + contract to pass a week on the river myself, as the condition of her + safety, I thought but little of the others, to my shame be it said, though + I cannot do myself the injustice to imagine, had Anneke been away, that I + would have deserted even a horse, while there was a hope of saving him. + </p> + <p> + Away we went! Guert drove rapidly, but he drove with judgment, and it + seemed as if his blacks knew what was expected of them. It was not long + before we were trotting past the hamlet I have mentioned. It would seem + that the bells of the two sleighs attracted the attention of the people on + the shore, all of whom had not yet gone to bed; for the door of a house + opened, and two men issued out of it, gazing at us as we trotted past at a + pace that defied pursuit. These men also hallooed to us, in Dutch, and + again Herman Mordaunt galloped up alongside, to speak to us. + </p> + <p> + “Did you understand these men?” he called out, for this time Guert did not + see fit to stop his horses; “they, too, had something to tell us.” + </p> + <p> + “These people always have something to tell an Albany sleigh, Mr. + Mordaunt,” answered Guert; “though it is not often that which it would do + any good to hear.” + </p> + <p> + “But Mrs. Bogart thinks they also had something to say about 'Albany,' and + the 'river.'” + </p> + <p> + “I understand Dutch as well as excellent Mrs. Bogart,” said Guert, a + little drily; “and I heard nothing; while I fancy I understand the river + better. This ice would bear a dozen loads of hay, in a close line.” + </p> + <p> + This again satisfied Herman Mordaunt and the ladies, but it did not + satisfy me. Our own bells made four times the noise of those of Herman + Mordaunt; and it was very possible that one, who understood Dutch + perfectly, might comprehend a call in that language, while seated in his + own sleigh, when the same call could not be comprehended by the same + person, while seated in Guert's. There was no pause, however; on we + trotted; and another mile was passed, before any new occurrence attracted + attention. + </p> + <p> + The laugh was again heard among us, for Mary Wallace consented to sing an + air, that was rendered somewhat ludicrous by the accompaniment of the + bells. This song, or verse or two, for the singer got no further on + account of the interruption, had drawn Guert's and my attention behind us, + or away from the horses, when a whirling sound was heard, followed + immediately by a loud shout. A sleigh passed within ten yards of us, going + down, and the whirling sound was caused by its runners, while the shout + came from a solitary man, who stood erect, waving his whip and calling to + us in a loud voice, as long as he could be heard. This was but for a + moment, however, as his horses were on the run; and the last we could see + of the man, through the misty moon-light, he had turned his whip on his + team, to urge it ahead still faster. In an instant, Herman Mordaunt was at + our side, for the third time that night, and he called out to us somewhat + authoritatively to stop. + </p> + <p> + “What can all this mean, Guert?” he asked. “Three times have we had + warnings about 'Albany' and the 'river.' I heard this man myself utter + those two words, and cannot be mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say, sir, that you may have heard something of the sort,” answered + the still incredulous Guert; “for these chaps have generally some + impertinence to utter, when they pass a team that is better than their + own. These blacks of mine, Herman Mordaunt, awaken a good deal of envy, + whenever I go out with them; and a Dutchman will forgive you any other + superiority, sooner than he will overlook your having the best team. That + last man had a spur in his head, moreover, and is driving his cattle, at + this moment, more like a spook than like a humane and rational being, I + dare say he asked if we owned Albany and the river.” + </p> + <p> + Guert's allusion to his horses occasioned a general laugh; and laughter is + little favourable to cool reflection. We all looked out on the solemn and + silent night, cast our eyes along the wide and long reach of the river, in + which we happened to be, and saw nothing but the calm of nature, rendered + imposing by solitude and the stillness of the hour. Guert smilingly + renewed his assurances that all was right, and moved on. Away we went! + Guert evidently pressed his horses, as if desirous of being placed beyond + this anxiety as soon as possible. The blacks flew, rather than trotted; + and we were all beginning to submit to the exhilaration of so rapid and + easy a motion, when a sound which resembled that which one might suppose + the simultaneous explosion of a thousand rifles would produce, was heard, + and caused both drivers to pull up; the sleighs stopping quite near each + other, and at the same instant! A slight exclamation escaped old Mrs. + Bogart; but Anneke and Mary remained still as death. + </p> + <p> + “What means that sound, Guert?” inquired Herman Mordaunt; the concern he + felt being betrayed by the very tone of his voice. “Something seems + wrong!” + </p> + <p> + “Something <i>is</i> wrong,” answered Guert, coolly, but very decidedly; + “and it is something that must be seen to.” + </p> + <p> + As this was said, Guert stepped out on the ice, which he struck a hard + blow with the heel of his boot, as if to make certain of its solidity. A + second report was heard, and it evidently came from <i>behind</i> us. + Guert gazed intently down the river; then he laid his head close to the + surface of the ice, and looked again. At the same time, three or four more + of these startling reports followed each other in quick succession. Guert + instantly rose to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “I understand it, now,” he said, “and find I have been rather too + confident. The ice, however, is safe and strong, and we have nothing to + fear from its weakness. Perhaps it would be better to quit the river + notwithstanding, though I am far from certain the better course will not + be to push on.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us know the danger at once, Mr. Ten Eyck,” said Herman Mordaunt, + “that we may decide for the best.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, I am afraid that the rains and the thaw together, have thrown + so much water into the river, all at once, as it might be, as to have + raised the ice and broken it loose, in spots, from the shores. When this + happens <i>above</i>, before the ice has disappeared below, it sometimes + causes dams to form, which heap up such a weight as to break the whole + plain of ice far below it, and thus throw cakes over cakes until walls + twenty or thirty feet high are formed. This has not happened <i>yet</i>, + therefore there is no immediate danger; but by bending your heads low, you + can see that such a <i>break</i> has just taken place about half a mile + below us.” + </p> + <p> + We did as Guert directed, and saw that a mound had arisen across the river + nearer than the distance named by our companion, completely cutting off + retreat by the way we had come. The bank on the west side of the Hudson + was high at the point where we were, and looking intensely at it, I saw by + the manner in which the trees disappeared, the more distant behind those + that were nearer, that we were actually in motion! An involuntary + exclamation caused the whole party to comprehend this startling fact at + the same instant. We were certainly in motion, though very slowly, on the + ice of that swollen river, in the quiet and solitude of a night in which + the moon rather aided in making danger apparent than in assisting us to + avoid it! What was to be done? It was necessary to decide, and that + promptly and intelligently. + </p> + <p> + We waited for Herman Mordaunt to advise us, but he referred the matter at + once to Guert's greater experience. + </p> + <p> + “We cannot land here,” answered the young man, “so long as the ice is in + motion, and I think it better to push on. Every foot will bring us so much + nearer to Albany, and we shall get among the islands a mile or two higher, + where the chances of landing will be greatly increased. Besides, I have + often crossed the river on a cake, for they frequently stop, and I have + known even loaded sleighs profit by them to get over the river. As yet + there is nothing very alarming;—let us push on, and get nearer to + the islands.” + </p> + <p> + This, then, was done, though there was no longer heard the laugh or the + song among us. I could see that Herman Mordaunt was uneasy about Anneke, + though he could not bring her into his own sleigh, leaving Mary Wallace + alone; neither could he abandon his respectable connection, Mrs. Bogart. + Before we re-entered the sleighs, I took an occasion to assure him that + Anneke should be my especial care. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, Corny, my dear boy,” Herman Mordaunt answered, squeezing + my hand with fervour. “God bless you, and enable you to protect her. I was + about to ask you to change seats with me; but, on the whole, I think my + child will be safer with you than she could be with me. We will await + God's pleasure as accident has placed us.” + </p> + <p> + “I will desert her only with life, Mr. Mordaunt. Be at ease on that + subject.” + </p> + <p> + “I know you will not—I am <i>sure</i> you will not, Littlepage; that + affair of the lion is a pledge that you will not. Had Bulstrode come, we + should have been strong enough to——but Guert is impatient to + be off. God bless you, boy—God bless you. Do not neglect my child.” + </p> + <p> + Guert <i>was</i> impatient, and no sooner was I in the sleigh than we were + once more in rapid motion. I said a few words to encourage the girls, and + then no sound of a human voice mingled with the gloomy scene. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + He started up, each limb convulsed + With agonizing fear, + He only heard the storm of night— + 'Twas music to his ear. + + <i>Lord William</i>. +</pre> + <p> + Away we went! Guert's aim was the islands, which carried him nearer home, + while it offered a place of retreat, in the event of the danger's becoming + more serious. The fierce rapidity with which we now moved prevented all + conversation, or even much reflection. The reports of the rending ice, + however, became more and more frequent, first coming from above, and then + from below. More than once it seemed as if the immense mass of weight that + had evidently collected somewhere near the town of Albany, was about to + pour down upon us in a flood—when the river would have been swept + for miles, by a resistless torrent. Nevertheless, Guert held on his way; + firstly, because he knew it would be impossible to get on either of the + main shores, anywhere near the point where we happened to be; and + secondly, because, having often seen similar dammings of the waters, he + fancied we were still safe. That the distant reader may understand the + precise character of the danger we ran, it may be well to give him some + notion of the localities. + </p> + <p> + The banks of the Hudson are generally high and precipitous, and in some + places they are mountainous. No flats worthy of being mentioned, occur, + until Albany is approached; nor are those which lie south of that town, of + any great extent, compared with the size of the stream. In this particular + the Mohawk is a very different river, having extensive flats that, I have + been told, resemble those of the Rhine, in miniature. As for the Hudson, + it is generally esteemed in the colony as a very pleasing river; and I + remember to have heard intelligent people from home, admit, that even the + majestic Thames itself, is scarcely more worthy to be visited, or that it + better rewards the trouble and curiosity of the enlightened traveller. <a + href="#linknote-26" name="linknoteref-26" id="linknoteref-26"><small>26</small></a> + </p> + <p> + While there are flats on the shores of the Hudson, and of some extent, in + the vicinity of Albany, the general formation of the adjacent country is + preserved,—being high, bold, and in some quarters, more particularly + to the northward and eastward, mountainous. Among these hills the stream + meanders for sixty or eighty miles north of the town, receiving + tributaries as it comes rushing down towards the sea. The character of the + river changes entirely, a short distance above Albany; the tides flowing + to that point, rendering it navigable, and easy of ascent in summer, all + the way from the sea. Of the tributaries, the principal is the Mohawk, + which runs a long distance towards the west—they tell me, for I have + never visited these remote parts of the colony—among fertile plains, + that are bounded north and south by precipitous highlands. Now, in the + spring, when the vast quantities of snow, that frequently lie four feet + deep in the forests, and among the mountains and valleys of the interior, + are suddenly melted by the south winds and rains, freshets necessarily + succeed, which have been known to do great injury. The flats of the + Mohawk, they tell me, are annually overflown, and a moderate freshet is + deemed a blessing; but, occasionally, a union of the causes I have + mentioned, produces a species of deluge that has a very opposite + character. Thus it is, that houses are swept away; and bridges from the + smaller mountain streams, have been known, to come floating past the + wharves of Albany, holding their way towards the ocean. At such times the + tides produce no counter-current; for it is a usual thing, in the early + months of the spring, to have the stream pour downwards for weeks, the + whole length of the river, and to find the water fresh even as low as New + York. + </p> + <p> + Such was the general nature of the calamity we had been so unexpectedly + made to encounter. The winter had been severe, and the snows unusually + deep; and, as we drove furiously onward, I remembered to have heard my + grandfather predict extraordinary freshets in the spring, from the + character of the winter, as we had found it, even previously to my + quitting home. The great thaw, and the heavy rains of the late storm, had + produced the usual effect; and the waters thus let loose, among the + distant, as well as the nearer hills, were now pouring down upon us in + their collected might. In such cases, the first effect is, to loosen the + ice from the shores; and, local causes forcing it to give way at + particular points, a breaking up of its surface occurs, and dams are + formed that set the stream back in floods upon all the adjacent low land, + such as the flats in the vicinity of Albany. + </p> + <p> + We did not then know it, but, at the very moment Guert was thus urging his + blacks to supernatural efforts—actually running them as if on a + race-course—there was a long reach of the Hudson, opposite to, for a + short distance below, and for a considerable distance above the town, + which was quite clear of stationary ice. Vast cakes continued to come + down, it is true, passing on to increase the dam that had formed below, + near and on the Overslaugh, where it was buttressed by the islands, and + rested on the bottom; but the whole of that firm field, on which we had + first driven forth that morning, had disappeared! This we did not know at + the time, or it might have changed the direction of Guert's movements; but + I learned it afterwards, when placed in a situation to inquire into the + causes of what had occurred. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt's bells, and the rumbling sound of his runners, were heard + close behind us, as our own sleigh flew along the river at a rate that I + firmly believe could not have been much less than that of twenty miles in + the hour. As we were whirled northward, the reports made by the rending of + the ice increased in frequency and force. They really became appalling! + Still, the girls continued silent, maintaining their self-command in a + most admirable manner; though I doubt not that they felt, in the fullest + extent, the true character of the awful circumstances in which we were + placed. Such was the state of things, as Guert's blacks began sensibly to + relax in their speed, for want of wind. They still galloped on, but it was + no longer with the swiftness of the wind; and their master became sensible + of the folly of hoping to reach the town ere the catastrophe should + arrive. He reined in his panting horses, therefore, and was just falling + into a trot, as a violent report was heard directly in our front. At the + next instant the ice rose, positively, beneath our horses' hoofs, to the + height of several feet, taking the form of the roof of a house. It was too + late to retreat, and Guert shouting out “Jack”—“Moses,” applied the + whip, and the spirited animals actually went over the mound, leaping a + crack three feet in width, and reaching the level ice beyond. All this was + done, as it might be, in the twinkling of an eye. While the sleigh flew + over this ridge, it was with difficulty I held the girls in their seats; + though Guert stood nobly erect, like the pine that is too firmly rooted to + yield to the tempest. No sooner was the danger passed, however, than he + pulled up, and came to a dead halt. + </p> + <p> + We heard the bells of Herman Mordaunt's sleigh, on the other side of the + barrier, but could see nothing. The broken cakes, pressed upon by millions + of tons weight above, had risen fully ten feet, into an inclination that + was nearly perpendicular; rendering crossing it next to impossible, even + to one a-foot. Then came Herman Mordaunt's voice, filled with paternal + agony, and human grief, to increase the awe of that dreadful moment! + </p> + <p> + “Shore!—shore!—” he shouted, or rather yelled—“In the + name of a righteous Providence, to the shore, Guert!” + </p> + <p> + The bells passed off towards the western bank, and the rumbling of the + runners accompanied their sound. That was a breathless moment to us four. + We heard the rending and grinding of the ice, on all sides of us; saw the + broken barriers behind and in front; heard the jingling of Herman + Mordaunt's bells, as it became more and more distant, and finally ceased; + and felt as if we were cut off from the rest of our species. I do not + think either of us felt any apprehension of breaking through; for use had + so accustomed us to the field of the river, while the more appalling + grounds of alarm were so evident, that no one thought of such a source of + danger. Nor was there much, in truth, to apprehend from that cause. The + thaw had not lasted long enough materially to diminish either the + thickness or the tenacity of the common river ice; though it was found + unequal to resisting the enormous pressure that bore upon it from above. + It is probable that a cake of an acre's size would have upheld, not only + ourselves, but our sleigh and horses, and carried us, like a raft, down + the stream; had there been such a cake, free from stationary impediments. + Even the girls now comprehended the danger, which was in a manner + suspended over us,—as the impending wreath of snow menaces the fall + of the <i>avalanche</i>. But, it was no moment for indecision or inaction. + </p> + <p> + Cut off, as we were, by an impassable barrier of ice, from the route taken + by Herman Mordaunt, it was necessary to come to some resolution on our own + course. We had the choice of endeavouring to pass to the western shore, on + the upper side of the barrier, or of proceeding towards the nearest of + several low islands which lay in the opposite direction. Guert determined + on the last, walking his horses to the point of land, there being no + apparent necessity for haste, while the animals greatly needed breath. As + we went along, he explained to us that the fissure below cut us off from + the only point where landing on the western shore could be practicable. At + the same time, he put in practice a pious fraud, which had an excellent + effect on the feelings and conduct of both the girls, throughout the + remainder of the trying scenes of that fearful night; more especially on + those of Anneke. He dwelt on the good fortune of Herman Mordaunt, in being + on the right side of the barrier that separated the sleighs, in a way to + induce those who did not penetrate his motive, to fancy the rest of the + party was in a place of security, as the consequence of this accident. + Thus did Anneke believe her father safe, and thus was she relieved from + much agonizing doubt. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the sleigh came near the point of the island, Guert gave me the + reins, and went ahead to examine whether it were possible to land. He was + absent fifteen minutes; returning to us only after he had made a thorough + search into the condition of the island, as well as of that of the ice in + its eastern channel. These were fifteen fearful minutes; the rending of + the masses above, and the grinding of cake on cake, sounding like the roar + of the ocean in a tempest. Notwithstanding all the awful accessories of + this dreadful night, I could not but admire Guert's coolness of manner, + and his admirable conduct. He was more than resolute; for he was cool, + collected, and retained the use of all his faculties in perfection. As + plausible as it might seem, to one less observant and clear-headed, to + attempt escaping to the western shore, Guert had decided right in moving + towards the island. The grinding of the ice, in another quarter, had + apprised him that the water was forcing its way through, near the main + land; and that escape would be nearly hopeless, on that side of the river. + When he rejoined us, he called me to the heads of the horses, for a + conference; first solemnly assuring our precious companions that there + were no grounds for immediate apprehension. Mary Wallace anxiously asked + him to repeat this to <i>her</i>, on the faith due from man to woman; and + he did it; when I was permitted to join him without further opposition. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” said Guert, in a low tone, “Providence has punished me for my + wicked wish of seeing Mary Wallace in the claws of lions; for all the + savage beasts of the Old World, could hardly make our case more desperate + than it now is. We must be cool, however, and preserve the girls or die + like men.” + </p> + <p> + “Our fates are, and must be, the same. Do you devote yourself to Mary, and + leave Anneke to me. But, why this language; surely, our case is by no + means so desperate.” + </p> + <p> + “It might not be so difficult for two active, vigorous young men to get + ashore; but it would be different with females. The ice is in motion all + around us; and the cakes are piling and grinding on each other in a most + fearful manner. Were it light enough to see, we should do much better; + but, as it is, I dare not trust Mary Wallace any distance from this + island, at present. We may be compelled to pass the night here, and must + make provision accordingly. You hear the ice grinding on the shore; a sign + that everything is going down stream.—God send that the waters break + through, ere long; though they may sweep all before them, when they do + come. I fear me, Corny, that Herman Mordaunt and his party are lost!” + </p> + <p> + “Merciful Providence!—can it be as bad as that!—I rather hope + they have reached the land.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>That</i> is impossible, on the course they took. Even a man would be + bewildered and swept away, in the torrent that is driving down under the + west shore. It is that vent to the water, which saves us. But, no more + words.—You now understand the extent of the danger, and will know + what you are about. We must get our precious charge on the island, if + possible, without further delay. Half an hour—nay, half a minute may + bring down the torrent.” + </p> + <p> + Guert took the direction of everything. Even while we had been talking, + the ice had moved materially; and we found ourselves fifty feet further + from the island than we had been. By causing the horses to advance, this + distance was soon recovered; but it was found impossible to lead or drive + them over the broken cakes with which the shore of the island now began to + be lined. After one or two spirited and determined efforts, Guert gave the + matter up, and asked me to help the ladies from the sleigh. Never did + women behave better, than did these delicate and lovely girls, on an + occasion so awfully trying. Without remonstrances, tears, exclamations or + questions, both did as desired; and I cannot express the feeling of + security I felt, when I had helped each over the broken and grinding + border of white ice, that separated us from the shore. The night was far + from cold; but the ground was now frozen sufficiently to prevent any + unpleasant consequences from walking on what would otherwise have been a + slimy, muddy alluvion; for the island was so very low, as often to be + under water, when the river was particularly high. This, indeed, formed + our danger, after we had reached it. + </p> + <p> + When I returned to Guert, I found him already drifted down some little + distance; and this time we moved the sleigh so much above the point, as to + be in less danger of getting out of sight of our precious wards. To my + surprise, Guert was busy in stripping the harness from the horses, and + Jack already stood only in his blinkers. Moses was soon reduced to the + same state. I was wondering what was to be done next, when Guert drew each + bridle from its animal, and gave a smart crack of his whip. The liberated + horses started back with affright—snorted, reared, and, turning + away, they went down the river, free as air, and almost as swift; the + incessant and loud snapping of heir master's whip, in no degree tending to + diminish their speed. I asked the meaning of this. + </p> + <p> + “It would be cruel not to let the poor beasts make use of the strength and + sagacity nature has given them to save their lives,” answered Guert, + straining his eyes after Moses, the horse that was behind, so long as his + dark form could be distinguished, and leaning forward to listen to the + blows of their hoofs, while the noises around us permitted them to be + heard. “To us, they would only be an encumbrance, since they never could + be forced over the cracks and caked ice in harness; nor would it be at all + safe to follow them, if they could. The sleigh is light, and we are strong + enough to shove it to land, when there is an opportunity; or, it may be + left on the island.” + </p> + <p> + Nothing could have served more effectually to convince me of the manner in + which Guert regarded our situation, than to see him turn loose beasts + which I knew he so highly prized. I mentioned this; and he answered me + with a melancholy seriousness, that made the impression so much the + stronger— + </p> + <p> + “It is possible they may get ashore, for nature has given a horse a keen + instinct. They can swim, too, where you and I would drown. At all events, + they are not fettered with harness, but have every chance it is in my + power to give them. Should they land, any farmer would put them in his + stable, and I should soon hear where they were to be found; if, indeed, I + am living in the morning to make the inquiry.” + </p> + <p> + “What is next to be done, Guert?” I asked, understanding at once both his + feelings and his manner of reasoning. + </p> + <p> + “We must now run the sleigh on the island; after which it will be time to + look about us, and to examine if it be possible to get the ladies on the + main land.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, Guert and I applied ourselves to the task, and had no great + difficulty in dragging the sleigh over the cakes, grinding and in motion + as they were. We pulled it as far as the tree beneath which Anneke and + Mary stood; when the ladies got into it and took their seats, enveloped in + the skins. The night was not cold for the season, and our companions were + thickly clad, having tippets and muffs, still, the wolves' skins of Guert + contributed to render them more comfortable. All apprehension of immediate + danger now ceased, for a short time; nor do I think either of the females + fancied they could run any more risk, beyond that of exposure to the night + air, so long as they remained on <i>terra firma</i>. Such was not the + case, however, as a very simple explanation will render apparent to the + reader. + </p> + <p> + All the islands in this part of the Hudson are low, being rich, alluvial + meadows, bordered by trees and bushes; most of the first being willows, + sycamores, or nuts. The fertility of the soil had given to these trees + rapid growths, and they were generally of some stature; though not one + among them had that great size which ought to mark the body and branches + of a venerable tenant of the forest. This fact, of itself, proved that no + one tree of them all was <i>very</i> old; a circumstance that was + certainly owing to the ravages of the annual freshets. I say annual; for + though the freshet which now encompassed us, was far more serious than + usual, each year brought something of the sort; and the islands were + constantly increasing or diminishing under their action. To prevent the + last, a thicket of trees was left at the head of each island, to form a + sort of barricade against the inroads of the ice in the spring. So low was + the face of the land, or meadow, however, that a rise of a very few feet + in the river would be certain to bring it entirely under water. All this + will be made more apparent by our own proceedings, after we had placed the + ladies in the sleigh; and more especially, by the passing remarks of Guert + while employed in his subsequent efforts. + </p> + <p> + No sooner did Guert Ten Eyck believe the ladies to be temporarily safe, + than he proposed to me that we should take a closer look at the state of + the river, in order to ascertain the most feasible means of getting on the + main land. This was said aloud, and in a cheerful way, as if he no longer + felt any apprehension, and, evidently to me, to encourage our companions. + Anneke desired us to go, declaring that now she knew herself to be on dry + land, all her own fears had vanished. We went accordingly, taking our + first direction towards the head of the island. + </p> + <p> + A very few minutes sufficed to reach the limits of our narrow domain; and, + as we approached them, Guert pointed out to me the mound of ice that was + piling up behind it, as a most fearful symptom. + </p> + <p> + “<i>There</i> is our danger,” he said, with emphasis, “and we must not + trust to these trees. This freshet goes beyond any I ever saw on the + river; and not a spring passes that we have not more or less of them. Do + you not see, Corny, what saves us now?” + </p> + <p> + “We are on an island, and cannot be in much danger from the river while we + stay here.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, my dear friend, not at all so. But, come with me and look for + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + I followed Guert, and did look for myself. We sprang upon the cakes of + ice, which were piled quite thirty feet in height, on the head of the + island, extending right and left, as far as our eyes could see, by that + misty light. It was by no means difficult moving about on this massive + pile, the movement in the cakes being slow, and frequently interrupted; + but there was no concealing the true character of the danger. Had not the + island, and the adjacent main interposed their obstacles, the ice would + have continued to move bodily down the stream, cake shoving over cake, + until the whole found vent in the wider space below, and floated off + towards the ocean. Not only was our island there; however, but other + islands lay near us, straitening the different channels or passages in + such a way, as to compel the formation of an icy dam; and, on the strength + of this dam rested all our security. Were it to be ruptured anywhere near + us, we should inevitably be swept off in a body. Guert thought, however, + as has been said already, that the waters had found narrow issues under + the main land, both east and west of us; and should this prove to be true, + there was a hope that the great calamity might be averted. In other words, + if these floodgates sufficed, we <i>might</i> escape; otherwise the + catastrophe was certain. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot excuse it to myself to remain here, without endeavouring to see + what is the state of things nearer to the shore,” said Guert, after we had + viewed the fast accumulating mass of broken ice above us, as well as the + light permitted, and we had talked over together the chances of safety, + and the character of the danger. “Do you return to the ladies, Corny, and + endeavour to keep up their spirits, while I cross this channel on our + right, to the next island, and see what offers in that direction.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not like the idea of your running all the risk alone; besides, + something may occur to require the strength of two, instead of that of + one, to overcome it.” + </p> + <p> + “You can go with me as far as the next island, if you will, where we shall + be able to ascertain at once whether it be ice or water that separates us + from the eastern shore. If the first, you can return as fast as possible + for the ladies, while I look for a place to cross. I do not like the + appearance of this dam, to be honest with you; and have great fears for + those who are now in the sleigh.” + </p> + <p> + We were in the very act of moving away, when a loud, cracking noise, that + arose within a few yards, alarmed us both; and running to the spot whence + it proceeded, we saw that a large willow had snapped in two, like a + pipe-stem, and that the whole barrier of ice was marching, slowly, but + grandly, over the stump, crushing the fallen trunk and branches beneath + its weight, as the slow-moving wheel of the loaded cart crushes the twig. + Guert grasped my arm, and his fingers nearly entered the flesh, under his + iron pressure. + </p> + <p> + “We must quit this spot—” he said firmly, “and at once. Let us go + back to the sleigh.” + </p> + <p> + I did not know Guert's intentions, but I saw it was time to act with + decision. We moved swiftly down to the spot where we had left the sleigh; + and the reader will judge of our horror, when we found it gone! The whole + of the low point of the island where we had left it, was already covered + with cakes of ice that were in motion, and which had doubtless swept off + the sleigh during the few minutes that we had been absent! Looking around + us, however, we saw an object on the river, a little distance below, that + I fancied was the sleigh, and was about to rush after it, when a voice + filled with alarm, took us in another direction. Mary Wallace came out + from behind a tree, to which she had fled for safety, and seizing Guert's + arm, implored him not to quit her again. + </p> + <p> + “Whither has Anneke gone?” I demanded, in an agony I cannot describe—“I + see nothing of Anneke!” + </p> + <p> + “She would not quit the sleigh,” answered Mary Wallace, almost panting for + breath—“I implored—entreated her to follow me—said you + <i>must</i> soon return; but she refused to quit the sleigh. Anneke is in + the sleigh, if that can now be found.” + </p> + <p> + I heard no more; but springing on the still moving cakes of ice, went + leaping from cake to cake, until my sight showed me that, sure enough, the + sleigh was on the bed of the river, over which it was in slow motion; + forced downwards before the new coating of ice that was fast covering the + original surface. At first I could see no one in the sleigh; but, on + reaching it, I found Anneke buried in the skins. She was on her knees: the + precious creature was asking succour from God! + </p> + <p> + I had a wild but sweet consolation in thus finding myself, as it might be, + cut off from all the rest of my kind, in the midst of that scene of gloom + and desolation, alone with Anneke Mordaunt. The moment I could make her + conscious of my presence, she inquired after Mary Wallace, and was much + relieved on learning that she was with Guert, and would not be left by + him, for a single instant, again that night. Indeed, I saw their figures + dimly, as they moved swiftly across the channel that divided the two + islands, and disappear in that direction, among the bushes that lined the + place to which they had gone. + </p> + <p> + “Let us follow,” I said eagerly. “The crossing is yet easy, and we, too, + may escape to the shore.” + </p> + <p> + “Go you!” said Anneke, over whom a momentary physical torpor appeared to + have passed. “Go you, Corny,” she said; “a man may easily save himself; + and you are an only child—the sole hope of your parents.” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest, beloved Anneke!—why this indifference—this apathy on + your own behalf? Are <i>you</i> not an only child, the sole hope of a + widowed father?—do you forget <i>him?</i>” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no!” exclaimed the dear girl, hurriedly. “Help me out of the + sleigh, Corny: there, I will go with you anywhere—any how—to + the end of the world, to save my father from such anguish!” + </p> + <p> + From that moment the temporary imbecility of Anneke vanished, and I found + her, for the remainder of the time we remained in jeopardy, quick to + apprehend, and ready to second all my efforts. It was this passing + submission to an imaginary doom, on the one hand, and the headlong effect + of sudden fright on the other, which had separated the two girls, and + which had been the means of dividing the whole party as described. + </p> + <p> + I scarcely know how to describe what followed. So intense was my + apprehension on behalf of Anneke, that I can safely say, I did not think + of my own fate, in the slightest degree, as disconnected from hers. The + self-devoted reliance with which the dear girl seemed to place all her + dependence on me, would, of itself, have produced this effect, had she not + possessed my whole heart, as I was now so fully aware. Moments like those, + make one alive to all the affections, and strip off every covering that + habit or the dissembling of our manners is so apt to throw over the + feelings. I believe I both spoke and acted towards Anneke, as one would + cling to, or address the being dearest to him in the world, for the next + few minutes; but, I can suppose the reader will naturally prefer learning + what we did, under such circumstances, rather than what we said, or how we + felt. + </p> + <p> + I repeat, it is not easy for me to describe what followed. I know we first + rather ran, than walked, across the channel on which I had last seen the + dim forms of Guert and Mary, and even crossed the island to its eastern + side, in the hope of being able to reach the shore in that quarter. The + attempt was useless, for we found the water running down over the ice like + a race-way. Nothing could be seen of our late companions; and my loud and + repeated calls to them were unanswered. + </p> + <p> + “Our case is hopeless, Cornelius,” said Anneke; speaking with a forced + calmness when she found retreat impossible in that direction, “Let us + return to the sleigh, and submit to the will of God!” + </p> + <p> + “Beloved Anneke!—Think of your father, and summon your whole + strength. The bed of the river is yet firm; we will cross it, and try the + opposite shore.” + </p> + <p> + Cross it we did, my delicate companion being as much sustained by my + supporting arm, as by her own resolution but we found the same obstacle to + retreat interposing there also. The island above had turned the waters + aside, until they found an outlet under each bank—shooting along + their willowy shores, with the velocity of arrows. By this time, owing to + our hurried movement, I found Anneke so far exhausted, that it was + absolutely necessary to pause a minute to take breath. This pause was also + necessary, in order to look about us, and to decide understandingly as to + the course it was necessary now to pursue. This pause, brief as it was, + moreover, contributed largely to the apparent horrors of our situation. + </p> + <p> + The grating, or grinding of the ice above us, cake upon cake, now sounded + like the rushing of heavy winds, or the incessant roaring of a surf upon + the sea-shore. The piles were becoming visible, by their height and their + proximity, as the ragged barriers set slowly but steadily down upon us; + and the whole river seemed to me to be in motion downwards. At this awful + instant, when I began to think it was the will of Providence that Anneke + and I were to perish together, a strange sound interrupted the fearful + natural accessories of that frightful scene. I certainly heard the bells + of a sleigh; at first they seemed distant and broken—then, nearer + and incessant, attended by the rumbling of runners on the ice. I took off + my cap and pressed my head, for I feared my brain was unsettled. There it + came, however, more and more distinctly, until the trampling of horses' + hoofs mingled in the noise. + </p> + <p> + “Can there be others as unhappy as ourselves!” exclaimed Anneke, + forgetting her own fears in generous sympathy. “See, Littlepage!—see, + <i>dear</i> Cornelius—yonder surely comes another sleigh!” + </p> + <p> + Come it did, like the tempest, or the whirlwind; passing within fifty feet + of us. I knew it at a glance. It was the sleigh of Herman Mordaunt, empty; + with the horses, maddened by terror, running wherever their fears + impelled. As the sleigh passed, it was thrown on one side; then it was + once more whirled up again; and it went out of sight, with the rumbling + sound of the runners mingling with the jingling of bells and the tramp of + hoofs. + </p> + <p> + At this instant a loud, distant cry from a human voice, was certainly + heard. It seemed, to me, as if some one called my name; and Anneke said, + she so understood it, too. The call, if call it was, came from the south, + and from under the western shore. At the next moment, awful reports + proceeded from the barrier above; and, passing an arm around the slender + waist of my lovely companion, to support her, I began a rapid movement in + the direction of that call. While attempting to reach the western shore, I + had observed a high mound of broken ice, that was floating down; or + rather, was pressed down on the smooth surface of the frozen river, in + advance of the smaller cakes that came by in the current. It was + increasing, in size, by accessions from these floating cakes, and + threatened to form a new dam, at some narrow pass below, as soon as of + sufficient size. It occurred to me we should be temporarily safe, could we + reach that mound, for it rose so high as to be above danger from the + water. Thither, then, I ran, almost carrying Anneke on my arm; our speed + increased by the terrific sounds from the dam above us. + </p> + <p> + We reached the mound, and found the cakes so piled, as to be able to + ascend them; though not without an effort. After getting up a layer or + two, the broken mass became so irregular and ragged, as to render it + necessary for me to mount first, and then to drag Anneke up after me. This + I did, until exhausted; and we both seated ourselves on the edge of a + cake, in order to recover our breath. While there, it struck me, that new + sounds arose from the river; and, bending forward to examine, I saw that + the water had forced its way through the dam above and was coming down + upon us in a torrent. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-26" id="linknote-26"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 26 (<a href="#linknoteref-26">return</a>)<br /> [ This remark of Mr. + Cornelius Littlepage's, may induce a smile in the reader. But, few persons + of fifty can be found, who cannot recall the time, when it was a rare + thing to imagine <i>anything</i> American, as good as its English + counterpart. The American who could write a book—a real, live book—forty + years since, was a sort of prodigy. It was the same with him who could + paint any picture beyond a common portrait. The very fruits and natural + productions of the country were esteemed, doubtingly; and he was a bold + man who dared to extol even canvass-back ducks, in the year 1800! At the + present day, the feeling is fast undergoing an organic change. It is now + the fashion to <i>extol</i> everything American, and from submitting to a + degree that was almost abject, to the feeling of colonial dependency, the + country is filled, to-day, with the most profound provincial + self-admiration. It is to be hoped that the next change will bring us to + something like the truth.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My heart leaps up when I behold + A rainbow in the sky: + So was it when my Life began; + So is it now I am a man; + So be it when I shall grow old, + Or let me die! + + The child is father of the man; + And I could wish my days to be + Bound each to each by natural piety. + + WORDSWORTH. +</pre> + <p> + Five minutes longer on the ice of the main channel, and we should have + been swept away. Even as we still sat looking at the frightful force of + the swift current, as well as the dim light of that clouded night would + permit, I saw Guert Ten Eyck's sleigh whirl past us; and, only a minute + later, Herman Mordaunt's followed; the poor, exhausted beasts struggling + in the harness for freedom, that they might swim for their lives. Anneke + heard the snorting of those wretched horses; but her unpractised eyes did + not detect them, immersed, as they were, in the current; nor had she + recognised the sleigh that whirled past us, as her father's. A little + later, a fearful shriek came from one of the fettered beasts; such a + heart-piercing cry as it is known the horse often gives. I said nothing on + the subject, knowing that love for her father was one of the great + incentives which had aroused my companion to exertion; and being unwilling + to excite fears that were now latent. + </p> + <p> + Two or three minutes of rest were all that circumstances permitted. I + could see that everything visible on the river, was in motion downwards; + the piles of ice on which we were placed, as well as the cakes that + glanced by us, in their quicker descent. Our own motion was slow, on + account of the mass which doubtless pressed on the shoals of the west side + of the river; as well as on account of the friction against the lateral + fields of ice, and occasionally against the shore. Still, we were in + motion; and I felt the necessity, on every account, of getting as soon as + possible on the western verge of our floating island, in order to profit + by any favourable occurrence that might offer. + </p> + <p> + Dear Anneke!—How admirably did she behave that fearful night! From + the moment she regained her entire consciousness, after I found her + praying in the bottom of the sleigh, down to that instant, she had been as + little of an encumbrance to my own efforts, as was at all possible. + Reasonable, resolute, compliant, and totally without any ill-timed + exhibition of womanly apprehension, she had done all she was desired to do + unhesitatingly, and with intelligence. In ascending that pile of ice, by + no means an easy task under any circumstances, we had acted in perfect + concert, every effort of mine being aided by one of her own, directed by + my advice and greater experience. + </p> + <p> + “God has not deserted us, dearest Anneke,” I said, now that my companion's + strength appeared to have returned, “and we may yet hope to escape. I can + anticipate the joy we shall bring to your father's heart, when he again + takes you to his arms, safe and uninjured.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear, <i>dear</i> father!—What agony he must now be suffering on my + account.—Come, Corny, let us go to him at once, if it be possible.” + </p> + <p> + As this was said, the precious girl arose, and adjusted her tippet in a + way that should cause her no encumbrance; like one ready to set about the + execution of a serious task with all her energies. The muff had been + dropped on the river; for neither of us had any sensibility to cold. The + night, however, was quite mild, for the season; and we probably should not + have suffered, had our exertions been less violent. Anneke declared + herself ready to proceed, and I commenced the difficult and delicate task + of aiding her across an island composed of icy fragments, in order to + reach its western margin. We were quite thirty feet in the air; and a fall + into any of the numerous caverns, among which we had to proceed, might + have been fatal; certainly would have crippled the sufferer. Then the + surface of the ice was so smooth as to render walking on it an exceedingly + delicate operation; more especially as the cakes lay at all manner of + inclinations to the plane of the horizon. Fortunately, I wore buckskin + moccasins over my boots; and their rough leather aided me greatly in + maintaining my footing. Anneke, too, had socks of cloth; without which, I + do not think, she could have possibly moved. By these aids, however, and + by proceeding with the utmost caution, we had actually succeeded in + attaining our object, when the floating mass shot into an eddy, and, + turning slowly round, under this new influence, placed us on the outer + side of the island again! Not a murmur escaped Anneke, at this + disappointment; but, with a sweetness of temper that spoke volumes in + favour of her natural disposition, and a resignation that told her + training, she professed a readiness to renew her efforts. To this I would + not consent, however; for I saw that the eddy was still whirling us about; + and I thought it best to escape from its influence altogether, before we + threw away our strength fruitlessly. Instead of re-crossing the pile, + therefore, I told my fair companion that we would descend to a cake that + lay level on the water, and which projected from the mass to such a + distance, as to be close to the shore, should we again get near it. This + descent was made, after some trouble, though I was compelled to receive + Anneke entirely into my arms, in order to effect it. Effect it I did; + placing the sweet girl safely at my side, on the outermost and lowest of + all the cakes in our confused pile. + </p> + <p> + In some respects this change was for the better; while it did not improve + our situation in others. It placed both Anneke and myself behind a + shelter, as respected the wind; which, though neither very strong nor very + cold, had enough of March about it to render the change acceptable. It + took my companion, too, from a position where motion was difficult, and + often dangerous; leaving her on a level, even spot, where she could walk + with ease and security, and keep the blood in motion by exercise. Then it + put us both in the best possible situation to profit by any contact with + that shore, along and near which our island was now slowly moving. + </p> + <p> + There could no longer be any doubt of the state of the river in general. + It had broken up; spring had come, like a thief in the night; and the ice + below having given way, while the mass above had acquired too much power + to be resisted, everything was set in motion; and, like the death of the + strong man, the disruption of fields in themselves so thick and adhesive, + had produced an agony surpassing the usual struggle of the seasons. + Nevertheless, the downward motion had begun in earnest, and the centre of + the river was running like a sluice, carrying away, in its current, those + masses which had just before formed so menacing an obstacle above. + </p> + <p> + Luckily, our own pile was a little aside from the great downward rush. I + have since thought, that it touched the bottom, which caused it to turn, + as well as retarded its movement. Be this as it might, we still remained + in a little bay, slowly turning in a circle; and glad was I to see our low + cake coming round again, in sight of the western shore. The moment now + demanded decision; and I prepared Anneke to meet it. A large, low, level + cake had driven up on the shore, and extended out so far as to promise + that our own cake would touch it, in our evolutions. I knew that the ice, + in general, had not broken in consequence of any weakness of its own, but + purely under the weight of the enormous pressure from above, and the + mighty force of the current; and that we ran little, or no risk, in + trusting our persons on the uttermost limits of any considerable fragment. + A station was taken, accordingly, near a projection of the cake we were + on; when we waited for the expected contact. At such moments, the + slightest disappointment carries with it the force of the greatest + circumstances. Several times did it appear, to us, that our island was on + the point of touching the fastened cake, and as often did it incline + aside; at no time coming nearer than within six or eight feet. This + distance it would have been easy enough, for <i>me</i> to leap across, + but, to Anneke, it was a barrier as impassable as the illimitable void. + The sweet girl saw this; and, she acted like herself, under the + circumstances. She took my hand, pressed it, and said earnestly, and with + patient sweetness— + </p> + <p> + “You see how it is, Corny; I am not permitted to escape; but you can + easily reach the shore. Go, then, and leave me in the hands of Providence. + Go; I never can forget what you have already done; but it is useless to + perish together!” + </p> + <p> + I have never doubted that Anneke was perfectly sincere in her wish that I + should, at least, save my own life. The feeling with which she spoke; the + despair that was coming over her; and the movement of our island, which, + at that moment, gave signs of shooting away from the shore, altogether, + roused me to a sudden, and certainly, to a very bold attempt. I tremble, + even at this distance of time, as I write the particulars. A small cake of + ice was floating in between us and that which lay firmly fastened to the + shore. Its size was such as to allow it to pass between the two; though + not without coming nearly, if not absolutely, in contact with one, if not + with both. I observed all this; and, saying one word of encouragement to + Anneke, I passed an arm around her waist—waited the proper moment—and + sprang forward. It was necessary to make a short leap, with my precious + burthen on my arm, in order to gain this floating bridge; but it was done, + and successfully. Scarcely permitting Anneke's foot to touch this frail + support, which was already sinking under our joint weight, I crossed it at + two or three steps, and threw all my power into a last and desperate + effort. I succeeded here, also; and fell, upon the firmer cake, with a + heart filled with gratitude to God. The touch told me that we were safe; + and, in the next instant, we reached the solid ground. Under such + circumstances, one usually looks back to examine the danger he has just + gone through. I did so; and saw that the floating cake of ice had already + passed down, and was out of reach; while the mass that had been the means + of saving us, was slowly following, under some new impulse, received from + the furious currents of the river. But we were saved; and most devoutly + did I thank my God, who had mercifully aided our escape from perils so + imminent. + </p> + <p> + I was compelled to wait for Anneke, who fell upon her knees, and remained + there quite a minute, before I could aid her in ascending the steep + acclivity which formed the western bank of the Hudson, at this particular + point. We reached the top, however, after a little delay, and pausing once + or twice to take breath; when we first became really sensible of the true + character of the scene from which we had been delivered. Dim as was the + light, there was enough to enable us to overlook a considerable reach of + the river, from that elevated stand. The Hudson resembled chaos rushing + headlong between the banks. As for the cakes of ice—some darting + past singly, and others piled as high as houses—of course, the + stream was filled with such; but, a large, dark object was seen coming + through that very channel, over which Anneke and I had stood, less than an + hour before, sailing down the current with fearful rapidity. It was a + house; of no great size, it is true, but large enough to present a + singular object on the river. A bridge, of some size, followed; and a + sloop, that had been borne away from the wharves of Albany, soon appeared + in the strange assemblage, that was thus suddenly collected on this great + artery of the colony. + </p> + <p> + But the hour was late; Anneke was yet to care for; it was necessary to + seek a shelter. Still supporting my lovely companion, who now began to + express her uneasiness on account of her father, and her other friends, I + held the way inland; knowing that there was a high road parallel to the + river, and at no great distance from it. We reached the highway, in the + course of ten minutes, and turned our faces northward, as the direction + which led towards Albany. We had not advanced far before I heard the + voices of men, who were coming towards us; and glad was I to recognise + that of Dirck Follock among the number. I called aloud, and was answered + by a shout of exultation, which, as I afterwards discovered, spontaneously + broke out of his mouth, when he recognised the form of Anneke. Dirck was + powerfully agitated when we joined him; I had never, previously, seen + anything like such a burst of feeling from him; and it was some time + before I could address him. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, your whole party is safe?” I asked, a little doubtingly; for I + had actually given up all who had been in Herman Mordaunt's sleigh for + lost. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, thank God! all but the sleigh and horses. But where are Guert Ten + Eyck and Miss Wallace?” + </p> + <p> + “Gone ashore on the other side of the river; we parted, and they took that + direction, while we came hither.” I said this to quiet Anneke's fears; but + I had misgivings about their having got off the river at all. “But let me + know the manner of your own escape.” + </p> + <p> + Dirck then gave us a history of what had passed; the whole party turning + back to accompany us, as soon as I told them that their errand—a + search for the horses—was useless. The substance of what we heard + was as follows:—In the first effort to reach the western shore, + Herman Mordaunt had been met by the very obstacle which Guert had foreseen + and he turned south, hoping to find some spot at which to land, by going + farther from the dam that had formed above. After repeated efforts, and + having nearly lost his sleigh and the whole party, a point was reached at + which Herman Mordaunt determined to get his female companion on shore, at + every hazard. This was to be done only by crossing floating cakes of ice, + in a current that was already running at the rate of four or five miles in + the hour. Dirck was left in charge of the horses while the experiment was + made; but seeing the adventurers in great danger, he flew to their + assistance—when the whole party were immersed, though not in deep + water. Left to themselves, and alarmed with the floundering in the river + and the grinding of the cakes, Herman Mordaunt's bays went off in the + confusion. Mrs. Bogart was assisted to the land, and was helped to reach + the nearest dwelling—a comfortable farm-house, about a quarter of a + mile beyond the point where we had met the party. There Mrs. Bogart had + been placed in a warm bed, and the gentlemen were supplied with such dry + clothes as the rustic wardrobe of these simple people could furnish. The + change made, Dirck was on his way to ascertain what had become of the + sleigh and horses, as has been mentioned. + </p> + <p> + On inquiry, I found that the spot where Anneke and myself had landed was + quite three miles below the island on which Guert and I had drawn the + sleigh. Nearly the whole of this distance had we floated with the pile of + broken ice, in the short time we were on it; a proof of the furious rate + at which the current was setting downward. No one had heard anything of + Guert and Mary; but I encouraged my companion to believe that they were + necessarily safe on the other shore. I certainly deemed this to be very + questionable, but there was no use in anticipating evil. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the farm-house, Herman Mordaunt's delight and gratitude may + more easily be imagined than described. He folded Anneke to his heart, and + she wept like an infant on his bosom. Nor was I forgotten in this touching + scene but came in for a full share of notice. + </p> + <p> + “I want no details, noble young man—” I am professing to write the + truth, and must be excused for relating such things as these, but—“I + want no details, noble young man,” said Herman Mordaunt, squeezing my + hand, “to feel certain that, under God, I owe my child's life, for the + second time, to you. I wish to Heaven!—but, no matter—it is + now too late—some other way may and <i>must</i> offer. I scarce know + what I say, Littlepage; but what I <i>mean</i> is, to express faintly, + some small portion of the gratitude I feel, and to let you know how + sensibly and deeply your services are felt and appreciated.” + </p> + <p> + The reader may think it odd, that this incoherent, but pregnant speech, + made little impression on me at the time, beyond the grateful conviction + of having really rendered the greatest of all services to Anneke and her + father; though I had better occasion to remember it afterwards. + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary to dwell more particularly on the occurrences at the + farm-house. The worthy people did what they could to make us comfortable, + and we were all warm in bed, in the course of the next half-hour. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning a wagon was harnessed, and we left these simple + countrymen and women—who refused everything like compensation, as a + matter of course—and proceeded homeward. I have heard it said that + we Americans are mercenary: it may be so, but not a man, probably, exists + in the colonies, who would accept money for such assistance. We were two + hours in reaching Albany, on wheels; and entered the place about ten, in a + very different style from that in which we had quitted it the day before. + As we drove along, the highway frequently led us to points that commanded + views of the river, and we had so many opportunities of noting the effects + of the freshet. Of ice, very little remained. Here and there a cake or a + pile was seen still adhering to the shore, and occasionally fragments + floated downwards; but, as a rule, the torrent had swept all before it. I + particularly took notice of the island on which we had sought refuge. It + was entirely under water, but its outlines were to be traced by the bushes + which lined its low banks. Most of the trees on its upper end were cut + down, and all that grew on it would unquestionably have gone, had not the + dam given way as early as it did. A great number of trees had been broken + down on all the islands; and large tops and heavy trunks were still + floating in the current, that were lately tenants of the forest, and had + been violently torn from their places. + </p> + <p> + We found all the lower part of Albany, too, under water. Boats were + actually moving through the streets; a considerable portion of its + inhabitants having no other means of communicating with their neighbours. + A sloop of some size lay up on one of the lowest spots; and, as the water + was already subsiding, it was said she would remain there until removed by + the shipwrights. Nobody was drowned in the place; for it is not usual for + the people of these colonies to remain in their beds, at such times, to + await the appearance of the enemy in at their windows. We often read of + such accidents destroying hundreds in the Old World; but, in the New, + human life is of too much account to be unnecessarily thrown away, and so + we make some efforts to preserve it. + </p> + <p> + As we drove into the street in which Herman Mordaunt lived, we heard a + shout, and turning our heads, we saw Guert Ten Eyck waving his cap to us, + with joy delineated in every feature of his handsome face. At the next + moment he was at our side. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Herman Mordaunt,” he cried, shaking that gentleman most cordially by + the hand, “I look upon you as one raised from the dead; you and my + excellent neighbour, Mrs. Bogart, and Mr. Follock, here! How you got off + the river is a mystery to me, for I well know that the water commonly + breaks through first under the west shore. Corny and Miss Anneke—God + bless you both! Mary Wallace is in terror lest ill news come from some of + you; but I will run ahead and let her know the glad tidings. It is but + five minutes since I left her, starting at every sound, lest it prove the + foot of some ill-omened messenger.” + </p> + <p> + Guert stopped to say no more. In a minute he was inside of Herman + Mordaunt's house—in another Anneke and Mary Wallace were locked in + each other's arms. After exchanging salutes, Mrs. Bogart was conveyed to + her own residence, and there was a termination to that memorable + expedition. + </p> + <p> + Guert had less to communicate, in the way of dangers and marvels, than I + had anticipated. It seemed, that when he and Miss Wallace reached the + inner margin of the last island, a large cake of ice had entered the + strait, and got jammed; or rather, that it went through, forced by the + tremendous pressure above; though not without losing large masses, as it + came in contact with the shores, and grinding much of its material into + powder, by the attrition. Guert's presence of mind and decision did him + excellent service here. Without delaying an instant, the moment it was in + his power, he led Mary on that cake, and crossed the narrow branch of the + river, which alone separated him from the main land, on it, dry-shod. The + water was beginning to find its way over this cake, as it usually did on + all those that lay low, and which even stopped in their progress; but this + did not offer any serious obstacles to persons who were so prompt Safe + themselves, our friends remained to see if we could not be induced to join + them; and the call we heard, was from Guert, who had actually re-crossed + to the island, in the hope of meeting us, and directing us to a place of + safety. Guert never said anything to me on the subject, himself; but I + subsequently gathered from Mary Wallace's accounts, that the young man did + not rejoin her without a good deal of hazard and difficulty, and after a + long and fruitless search for his companions. Finding it useless to remain + any longer on the river-side, Guert and his companion held their way + towards Albany. About midnight they reached the ferry, opposite to the + town; having walked quite six miles, filled with uneasiness on account of + those who had been left behind. Guert was a man of decision, and he wisely + determined it would be better to proceed, than to attempt waking up the + inmates of any of the houses he passed. The river was now substantially + free from ice, though running with great velocity. But, Guert was an + expert oarsman; and, finding a skiff, he persuaded Mary Wallace to enter + it; actually succeeding, by means of the eddies, in landing her within ten + feet of the very spot where the hand-sled had deposited him and myself, + only a few days before. From this point, there was no difficulty in + walking home; and Miss Wallace actually slept in her own bed, that + eventful night if, indeed, she <i>could</i> sleep. + </p> + <p> + Such was the termination of this adventure; one that I have rightly termed + memorable. In the end, Jack and Moses came in safe and sound; having + probably swum ashore. They were found in the public road, only a short + distance from the town, and were brought in to their master the same day. + Every one who took any interest in horses—and what Dutchman does + not?—knew Jack and Moses, and there was no difficulty in + ascertaining to whom they belonged. What is singular, however, both + sleighs were recovered; though at long intervals of time, and under very + different circumstances. That of Guert, wolves' skins and all, actually + went down the whole length of the river on the ice; passing out to sea + through the Narrows. It must have gone by New York in the night, or + doubtless it would have been picked up; while the difficulty of reaching + it, was its protector on the descent, <i>above</i> the town. Once outside + of the Narrows, it was thrown by the tide and winds upon the shore of + Staten Island; where it was hauled to land, housed, and, being properly + advertised in our New York paper, Guert actually got tidings of it in time + to receive it, skins and all, by one of the first sloops that ascended the + Hudson that year; which was within a fortnight after the river had opened. + The year 1758 was one of great activity, on account of the movements of + the army, and no time was then unnecessarily lost. + </p> + <p> + The history of Herman Mordaunt's sleigh was very different. The poor bays + must have drowned soon after we saw them floating past us in the torrent. + Of course, life had no sooner left them, than they sank to the bottom of + the river, carrying with them the sleigh to which they were still + attached. In a few days the animals rose to the surface—as is usual + with all swollen bodies—bringing up the sleigh again. In this + condition, the wreck was overtaken by a downward bound sloop, the men of + which saved the sleigh, harness, skins, foot-stoves, and such other + articles as would not float away. + </p> + <p> + Our adventure made a good deal of noise in the circle of Albany; and I + have reason to think that my own conduct was approved by those who heard + of it. Bulstrode paid me an especial visit of thanks, the very day of my + return, when the following conversation took place between us:— + </p> + <p> + “You seem fated, my dear Corny,” the Major observed, after he had paid the + usual compliments, “to be always serving me in the most material way, and + I scarcely know how to express all I feel on the occasion. First, the + lion, and now this affair of the river—but, that Guert will drown, + or make away with the whole family before the summer is over, unless Mr. + Mordaunt puts a stop to <i>his</i> interference.” + </p> + <p> + “This accident was one that might have overtaken the oldest and most + prudent man in Albany. The river seemed as solid as the street when we + went on it; and another hour, even as it was, would have brought us all + home, in entire safety.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but that hour came near bringing death and desolation into the most + charming family in the colony; and you have been the means of averting the + heaviest part of the blow. I wish to Heaven, Littlepage, that you would + consent to come into the army! Join us as a volunteer, the moment we move, + and I will write to Sir Harry to obtain a pair of colours for you. As soon + as he hears that we are indebted to your coolness and courage for the life + of Miss Mordaunt, he will move heaven and earth, to manifest his + gratitude. The instant this good parent made up his mind to accept Miss + Mordaunt as a daughter, he began to consider her as a child of his own.” + </p> + <p> + “And Anneke—Miss Mordaunt, herself, Mr. Bulstrode—-does she + regard Sir Harry as a father?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that must be coming by slow degrees, as a matter of course, you + know. Women are slower than us men to admit such totally novel + impressions; and I dare say Anneke fancies one father enough for her, just + at this moment: though she sends very pleasant messages to Sir Harry, I + can assure you, when in the humour! But, what makes you so grave, my good + Corny?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Bulstrode, I conceive it no more than fair, to be as honest as + yourself in this matter. You have told me that you are a suitor for Miss + Mordaunt's hand; I will now own to you that I am your rival.” + </p> + <p> + My companion heard this declaration with a quiet smile, and the most + perfect good-nature. + </p> + <p> + “So you actually wish to become the husband of Anneke Mordaunt, yourself, + my dear Corny, do you?” he said, so coolly, that I was at a loss to know + of what sort of materials the man could be made. + </p> + <p> + “I do, Major Bulstrode—it is the first and last wish of my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Since you seem disposed to reciprocate my confidence you will not take + offence if I ask you a question or two!” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, sir; your own frankness shall be a rule for my + government.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you ever let Miss Mordaunt know that such are your wishes?” + </p> + <p> + “I have, sir; and that in the plainest terms—such as cannot well be + misunderstood.” + </p> + <p> + “What! last night?—On that infernal ice!—While she thought her + life was in your hands!” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing was said on the subject, last night, for we had other thoughts to + occupy our minds.” + </p> + <p> + “It would have been a most ungenerous thing to take advantage of a lady's + fears—” + </p> + <p> + “Major Bulstrode!—I cannot submit—” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, my dear Corny,” interrupted the other, holding out a hand in a most + quiet and friendly manner; “there must be no misunderstanding between you + and me. Men are never greater simpletons, than when they let the secret + consciousness of their love of life push them into swaggering about their + honour; when their honour has, in fact, nothing to do with the matter in + hand. I shall not quarrel with you; and must beg you, in advance, to + receive my apologies for any little indecorum into which I may be betrayed + by surprise; as for great pieces of indecorum, I shall endeavour to avoid + <i>them</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough has been said, Mr. Bulstrode; I am no wrangler, to quarrel with a + shadow; and, I trust, not in the least, that most contemptible of all + human beings, a social bully, to be on all occasions menacing the sword or + the pistol. Such men usually <i>do</i> nothing, when matters come to a + crisis. Even when they fight, they fight bunglingly, and innocently.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Littlepage, and I honour your sentiments. I have remarked + that the most expert swordsman with his tongue, and the deadest shot at a + shingle, are commonly as innocent as lambs of the shedding of blood on the + ground. They can sometimes screw themselves up to <i>meet</i> an + adversary, but it exceeds their powers to use their weapons properly, when + it comes to serious work. The swaggerer is ever a coward at heart, however + well he may wear a mask for a time. But enough of this.—We + understand each other, and are to remain friends, under all circumstances. + May I question further?” + </p> + <p> + “<i>Ask</i> what you please, Bulstrode—I shall answer, or not, at my + own discretion.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, permit me to inquire, if Major Littlepage has authorized you to + offer proper settlements?” + </p> + <p> + “I am authorized to offer nothing.—Nor is it usual for the husband + to make settlements on his wife, in these colonies, further than what the + law does for her, in favour of her own. The father, sometimes, has a care + for the third generation. I should expect Herman Mordaunt to settle <i>his</i> + estate on his daughter, and her rightful heirs, let her marry whom she + may.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that is a very American notion; and one on which Herman Mordaunt, who + remembers his extraction, will be little likely to act. Well, Corny, we + are rivals, as it would seem; but that is no reason we should not remain + friends. We understand each other—though, perhaps, I ought to tell + you all.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be glad to know <i>all</i>, Mr. Bulstrode; and can meet my fate, + I hope, like a man. Whatever it may cost me, if Anneke prefer another, her + happiness will be dearer to me than my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear fellow, we all say and think so at one-and-twenty; which is + about your age, I believe. At <i>two</i>-and-twenty, we begin to see that + our own happiness has an equal claim on us; and, at <i>three</i>-and-twenty, + we even give it the preference. However, I will be just, if I am selfish. + I have no reason to believe Anne Mordaunt does prefer me; though my <i>perhaps</i> + is not altogether without a meaning, either.” + </p> + <p> + “In which case, I may possibly be permitted to know to what it refers?” + </p> + <p> + “It refers to the father; and, I can tell you, my fine fellow, that + fathers are of some account, in the arrangement of marriages between + parties of any standing. Had not Sir Harry authorized my own proposals, + where should I have been? Not a farthing of settlement could I have + offered, while he remained Sir Harry; notwithstanding I had the prodigious + advantage of the entail. I can tell you what it is, Corny; the existing + power is always an important power since we all think more of the present + time, than of the future. That is the reason so few of us get to Heaven. + As for Herman Mordaunt, I deem it no more than fair to tell you, he is on + my side, heart and hand. He likes my offers of settlement; he likes my + family; he likes my rank, civil and military; and I am not altogether + without the hope, that he likes <i>me</i>.” + </p> + <p> + I made no direct answer, and the conversation soon changed. Bulstrode's + declaration, however, caused me to remember both the speech and manner of + Herman Mordaunt, when he thanked me for saving his daughter's life. I now + began to reflect on it; and reflected on it much during the next few + months. In the end, the reader will learn the effect it had on my + happiness. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Good Sir, why do you start; and seem to fear + Things that do sound so fair? I' the name of truth, + Are ye fantastical, or that indeed + Which outwardly ye show?” + + <i>Banquo</i>. +</pre> + <p> + As I have said already, the adventure on the river made a good deal of + noise, in that simple community; and it had the effect to render Guert and + myself a sort of heroes, in a small way; bringing me much more into + notice, than would otherwise have been the case. I thought that Guert, in + particular, would be likely to reap its benefit; for, various elderly + persons, who were in the habit of frowning, whenever his name was + mentioned, I was given to understand, could now smile; and two or three of + the most severe among the Albany moralists, were heard to say that, “after + all, there was some good about that Guert Ten Eyck.” The reader will not + require to be told, that a high-school moralist, in a place as retired and + insulated as Albany, must necessarily be a being that became subject to a + very severe code. Morality, as I understand the matter, has a good deal of + convention about it. There is town-morality and country-morality, all over + the world, as they tell me. But, in America, our morals were, and long + have been, separated into three great and very distinct classes; viz.—New + England, or puritan-morals; middle colonies, or liberal morals; and + southern colonies, or latitudinarian morals. I shall not pretend to point + out all the shades of difference in these several schools; though that in + which I had myself been taught, was necessarily the most in conformity + with my own tastes. There were minor shades to be found in the same + school; Guert and myself belonging to different classes. His morals were + of the Dutch class; while mine more properly belonged to the English. The + great characteristic of the Dutch school, was the tendency to excess that + prevailed, when indulgences were sought. With them, it did not rain often; + but, when it did rain, it was pretty certain to pour. Old Col. Follock was + a case in point, on this scare; nor was his son Dirck, young and diffident + as he was, altogether an exception to the rule. There was not a more + respectable man in the colony, in the main, than Col. Van Valkenburgh. He + was well connected; had a handsome unencumbered estate; and money at + interest;—was a principal prop, in the church of his neighbourhood; + was esteemed as a good husband; a good father; a true friend; a kind + neighbour; an excellent, and loyal subject, and a thoroughly honest man. + Nevertheless, Col. Van Valkenburgh had his weak times and seasons. He <i>would</i> + have a frolic; and the Dominie was obliged to wink at this propensity. Mr. + Worden often nicknamed him Col. Frolic. His frolics might be divided into + two classes; viz. the moderate and immoderate. Of the first, he had two or + three turns a year; and these were the occasions on which he commonly + visited Satanstoe or had my father with him at Rockrockarock, as his own + place, in Rockland, was called. On these visits, whether to or from, there + was a large consumption of tobacco, beer, cider, wine, rum, lemons, sugar, + and the other ingredients of punch, toddy and flip; but no outrageously + durable excesses. There was much laughing, a great deal of good feeling, + many stories, and regular repetitions of old adventures, in the way of + traditional narrations; but nothing that could be called decided excesses. + It is true, that my grand father, and my father, and the Rev. Mr. Worden, + and Col. Follock, were much in the habit of retiring to their beds a + little confused in their brains, the consequence of so much tobacco-smoke, + as Mr. Worden always maintained; but everything was decent, and in order. + The parson, for instance, invariably pulled up on a Friday; and did not + take his place in the circle until Monday evening, again; which gave him + fully twenty-four hours, to cool off in, before he ascended the pulpit. I + will say this, for Mr. Worden, that he was very systematic and methodical + in the observance of all his duties; and I have known him, when he + happened to be late at dinner, on discovering that my father had omitted + to say grace, insist on everybody's laying down their knives and forks, + while he asked a blessing; even though it were after the fish was actually + eaten. No, no; Mr. Worden was a particular person, about all such things; + and it was generally admitted, that he had been the means of causing grace + to be introduced into several families, in Westchester; in which it had + never been the practice to have it, before his examples and precepts were + known to them. + </p> + <p> + I had not been acquainted with Guert Ten Eyck a fortnight, before I saw he + had a tendency to the same sort of excesses as those to which Col. Van + Valkenburgh was addicted. There was an old French Huguenot living near + Satanstoe—or rather, the son of one, who still spoke his father's + language—and who used to call Col. Follock's frolics his “<i>grands + couchers</i>” and his “<i>petit couchers</i>;” <a href="#linknote-27" + name="linknoteref-27" id="linknoteref-27"><small>27</small></a> inasmuch + as he usually got to bed at the last, without assistance; while at the + first, it was indispensable that some aid should be proffered. It was + these “grands couchers” at which my father never assisted. On these + occasions, the colonel invariably held his orgies over in Rockland, in the + society of men of purely Dutch extraction; there being something exclusive + in the enjoyment. I have heard it said that these last frolics sometimes + lasted a week, on really important occasions; during the whole of which + time the colonel and all near him were as happy as lords. These “<i>grands + couchers</i>” however, occurred but rarely—coming round, as it might + be, like leap-years, just to regulate the calendar, and adjust the time. + </p> + <p> + As for my new friend, Guert, he made no manifestation towards a “<i>grand + coucher</i>” during the time I remained at Albany—this his + attachment to Mary Wallace forbade—but, I discovered by means of + hints and allusions, that he <i>had</i> been engaged in one or two such + affairs, and that there was still a longing for them in his bones. It was + owing to her consciousness of the existence of such weaknesses, and her + own strong aversion to anything of the sort, that, I am persuaded, Mary + Wallace was alone induced to hesitate about accepting Guert's weekly offer + of his hand. The tenderness she evidently felt for him, now shone too + obviously in her eyes, to leave any doubt in my mind of Guert's final + success; for what woman ever refused long to surrender, when the image of + the besieger had taken its place in the citadel of her heart! Even Anneke + received Guert with much favour, after his excellent behaviour on the + river; and I fancied that everything was going on most flatteringly for my + friend, while it seemed to me that I made no advances in my own suit. + Such, at least, were my notions on the subject, at the very moment when my + new friend, as it appeared, was nearly driven to desperation. + </p> + <p> + It was near the end of April, or about a month after our perilous + adventure on the ice, that Guert came to seek me, one fine spring morning, + with something very like despair depicted in his fine, manly face. During + the whole of that month, it ought to be premised, I had not dared to speak + of love to Anneke. My attentions and visits were incessant and pointed, + but my tongue had been silent. The diffidence of real admiration had held + me tongue-tied; and I foolishly fancied there would be something like + presuming on the services I had so lately rendered, in urging my suit so + soon after the occurrence of the events I have described. I had even the + romance to think it might be taking an undue advantage of Bulstrode, to + wish to press my claims at a moment when the common object of our suit + might be supposed to feel the influence of a lively gratitude. These were + the notions and sentiments of a very young man, it must be confessed; but + I do not know that I ought to feel ashamed of them. At all events, they + existed; and they had produced the effect I have mentioned, leaving me to + fall, each day, more desperately in love, while I made no sensible + advances in preferring my suit. Guert was very much in the same situation, + with this difference, however; he made it a point to offer himself, + distinctly, each Monday morning, invariably receiving for an answer “no;” + if the lady were to be pressed for a definite reply; but leaving some + glimmering of hope, should time be given for her to make up her mind. The + visit of Guert's, to which I have just alluded, was after one of the + customary offers, and usual replies; the offer direct, and the “no,” + tempered by the doubting and thoughtful brow, the affectionate smile, and + the tearful eye. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” said my friend, throwing down his hat with a most rueful aspect; + for, winter having departed, and spring come, we had all laid aside our + fur-caps—“Corny, I have just been refused again! That word, 'no,' + has got to be so common with Mary Wallace, that I am afraid her tongue + will never know how to utter a 'yes!' Do you know, Corny, I have a great + mind to consult Mother Doortje!” + </p> + <p> + “Mother who?—You do not mean Mr. Mayor's cook, surely!” + </p> + <p> + “No; <i>Mother</i> Doortje. She is said to be the best fortune teller that + has ever lived in Albany. But, perhaps, you do not believe in + fortune-tellers; some people I know do not?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot say that I have much belief, or unbelief, on the subject, never + having seen anything of that sort.” + </p> + <p> + “Have they, then, no fortune-teller, no person who has the dark art, in + New York?” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard of such people, but have never had an opportunity of seeing + or hearing for myself. If you <i>do</i> go to see this Mother Dorrichy, or + whatever you call her, I should like amazingly to be of the party.” <a + href="#linknote-28" name="linknoteref-28" id="linknoteref-28"><small>28</small></a> + </p> + <p> + Guert was delighted to hear this, and he caught eagerly at the offer. If I + would stand his friend he would go at once; but he confessed he did not + like to trust himself all alone in the old woman's company. + </p> + <p> + “I am, perhaps, the only man of my time of life, in Albany, who has not, + sooner or later, consulted Mother Doortje;” he added! “I do not know how + it is, but, <i>somehow</i>, I have never liked to tempt fortune by going + to question her! One never can tell what such a being may say; and should + it be evil, why it might make a man very miserable. I am sure I want no + more trouble, as it is, than to find Mary Wallace so undetermined about + having me!” + </p> + <p> + “Then you do not mean to go, after all! I am not only ready, but anxious + to accompany you.” + </p> + <p> + “You mistake me, Corny. Go I will, now, though she tell me that which will + cause me to cut my throat—but, we must not go as we are; we must + disguise ourselves, in order that she may not know us. Everybody goes + disguised; and then they have an opportunity of learning if she is in a + good vein, or not, by seeing if she can tell anything about their + business, or habits, in the first place. If she fail in that, I should not + care a straw for any of the rest. So, go to work, Corny, and dress + yourself for the occasion—borrow some clothes of the people in the + house, here, and come round to me, as soon as you please; I shall be + ready, for I often go disguised to frolics—yes, unlucky devil that I + am, and come back disguised, too!” + </p> + <p> + Everything was done, as desired. By means of a servant in the tavern, I + was soon equipped in a way that satisfied me was very successful; inasmuch + as I passed Dirck, in quitting the house, and my old, confidential friend + did not recognise me. Guert was in as good luck, as I actually asked + himself for himself, when he opened the door for my admission. The laugh, + and the handsome face, however, soon let me into the secret, and we + sallied forth in high spirits; almost forgetting our misgivings concerning + the future, in the fun of passing our acquaintances in the street, without + being known. + </p> + <p> + Guert was much more artistically and knowingly disguised, than I was + myself. We both had put on the clothes of labourers; Guert wearing a + smock-frock that he happened to own for his fishing occupations in summer—but + I had my usual linen in view, and wore all the ordinary minor articles of + my daily attire. My friend pointed out some of these defects, as we went + along, and an attempt was made to remedy them. Mr. Worden coming in view, + I determined to stop him, and speak to him in a disguised voice, in order + to ascertain if it were possible to deceive him. + </p> + <p> + “Your sarvant, Tominie,” I said, making an awkward bow, as soon as we got + near enough to the parson to address him; “be you ter Tominie, that + marries folk on a pinch?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, or on a handful, liking the last best.—Why, Corny, thou rogue, + what does all this mean?” + </p> + <p> + It was necessary to let Mr. Worden into the secret; and he no sooner + learned the business we were on, than he expressed a wish to be of the + party. As there was no declining, we now went to the inn, and gave him + time to assume a suitable disguise. As the divine was a rigid observer of + the costume of his profession, and was most strictly a man of his <i>cloth</i>, + it was a very easy matter for him to make such a change in his exterior, + as completely to render him <i>incognito</i>. When all was ready, we went + finally forth, on our errand. + </p> + <p> + “I go with you, Corny, on this foolish business,” said the Rev. Mr. + Worden, as soon as we were fairly on our way, “to comply with a promise + made your excellent mother, not to let you stray into any questionable + company, without keeping a fatherly eye over you. Now, I regard a + fortune-teller's, as a doubtful sort of society; therefore, I feel it to + be a duty, to make one of this party.” + </p> + <p> + I do not know whether the Rev. Mr. Worden succeeded in deceiving himself; + but, I very well know, he did not succeed in deceiving me. The fact was, + he loved a frolic; and nothing made him happier, than to have an + opportunity of joining in just such an adventure as that we were on. + Judging from the position of her house, and the appearance of things in + and around it, the business of Mother Doortje was not of the most + lucrative sort. Dirt and poverty were two things not easily encountered, + in Albany; and, I do not say, that we found very positive evidence of + either, here; but there was less neatness than was usual in that + ultra-tidy community; and, as for any great display of abundance, it was + certainly not to be met with. + </p> + <p> + We were admitted by a young woman, who gave us to understand that Mother + Doortje had a couple of customers, already; but she invited us to sit down + in an outer room, promising that our turn should be the next. We did so, + accordingly, listening, through a door that was a little ajar, with no + small degree of curiosity, to what was passing within. I accidentally took + a seat in a place that enabled me to see the legs of one of the + fortune-teller's customers; and, I thought, immediately, that the striped + stockings were familiar to me; when the nasal, and very peculiar + intonation of Jason, put the matter out of all doubt. He spoke in an + earnest manner; which rendered him a little incautious; while the woman's + tones were low and mumbled. Notwithstanding, we all overheard the + following discourse— + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, Mother Dorrichay,” said Jason, in a very confiding sort of + way, “I've paid you well, for this here business, and I want to know if + there is any chance, for a poor man, in this colony, who doesn't want for + friends, or, for that matter, merit?” + </p> + <p> + “That's <i>yourself</i>” mumbled the female voice—in the way one + announces a discovery—“Yes, I see, by the cards, that your question + applies to yourself. You are a <i>young</i> man, that wants not for + friends; and you have <i>merit!</i> You have friends that you deserve; the + cards tells me <i>that!</i>” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll not deny the truth of what you assert; and, I must say, Dirck, + it <i>is</i> a little strange, this woman, who never saw me before, should + know me so well—my very natur', as it might be. But, do you think, I + shall do well to follow up the affair I am now on, or that I had best give + it up?” + </p> + <p> + “Give up nothing,” answered the oracle, in a very oracular manner, + shuffling the cards as she spoke; “no, give up nothing, but keep all you + can. That is the way to thrive, in this world.” + </p> + <p> + “By the Hokey, Dirck, she gives good advice, and I think I shall follow + it! But how about the land, and the mill-seat—or, rather, how about + the particular things I'm thinking about?” + </p> + <p> + “You are thinking of purchasing—yes, the cards say purchasing; or is + it 'disposing—'” + </p> + <p> + “Why, as I've got none to sell, it can't very well be disposing, Mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I'm right—this Jack of Clubs settles the matter—you are + thinking of buying some land—Ah! there's water running down-hill; + and here I see a pond—Why, you are thinking of buying a mill-seat.” + </p> + <p> + “By the Hokey!—Who would have thought this, Dirck!” + </p> + <p> + “Not a <i>mill</i>; no, there is <i>no</i> mill built; but a mill-<i>seat</i>. + Six, king, three and an ace; yes, I see how it is—and you wish to + get this mill-seat at much less than its real value. <i>Much</i> less; not + less, but <i>much</i> less.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this is wonderful! I'll never gainsay fortin-tellin' ag'in!” + exclaimed Jason. “Dirck, you are to say nothin' of this, or <i>think</i> + nothin' of this—as it's all in confidence, you know. Now, jist put + in a last word, about the end of life, Mother, and I'll be satisfied. What + you have told me about my fortin and earnin's must be true, I think, for + my whole heart is in them; but I should like to know, after enjoying so + much wealth and happiness as you've foretold, what sort of an end I am to + make of it?” + </p> + <p> + “An excellent end—full of grace, and hope, and Christian faith. I + see here, something that looks like a clergyman's gown—white sleeves—book + under the arm—” + </p> + <p> + “That can't be <i>me</i>. Mother, as I'm no lover of forms, but belong to + the platform.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I see how it is, now; you dislike Church of England people, and could + throw dirt at them. Yes, yes—here <i>you</i> are—a + presbyterian deacon, and one that can lead in a private meeting, on an + occasion.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Dirck, I'm satisfied—let us go; we have kept Mother + Doorichaise long enough, and I heard some visiters come in, just now. + Thank you, mother—thank you, with all my heart; I think there <i>must</i> + be some truth in this fortin-tellin' after all!” + </p> + <p> + Jason now arose, and walked out of the house, without even deigning to + look at us—and consequently without our being recognised. But Dirck + lingered a minute, not yet satisfied with what had been already told him. + </p> + <p> + “Do you really think I shall never be married, Mother?” he asked, in a + tone that sufficiently betrayed the importance he attached to the answer. + “I wish to know that particularly, before I go away!” + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” answered the fortune-teller in an oracular manner; “what has + been said, has been said! I cannot <i>make</i> fortunes, but only reveal + them. You have heard that Dutch blood is in your veins; but you live in an + English colony. <i>Your</i> king is <i>her</i> king; while <i>she</i> is + your <i>queen—</i>and you are not her master. If you can find a + woman of English blood that has a Dutch heart, and has no English suitors, + go forward, and you will succeed; but, if you do not, remain as you are + until time shall end. These are my words, and these are my thoughts; I can + say no more.” + </p> + <p> + I heard Dirck sigh—poor fellow! he was thinking of Anneke—and + he passed through the outer room without once raising his eyes from the + floor. He left Mother Doortje, as much depressed in spirits, as Jason had + left her elated; the one looking forward to the future with a selfish and + niggardly hope, while the other regarded it with a feeling as forlorn as + the destruction of all his youthful fancies could render any view of his + after-life. The reader may feel disposed to smile at the idea of Dirck Van + Valkenburgh's possessing youthful fancies—regarding the young man in + the quiet, unassuming manner in which he has hitherto been portrayed by + me; but it would be doing great injustice to his heart and feelings, to + figure him to the mind, as a being without deep sensibilities. I have + always supposed that this interview with Mother Doortje had a lasting + influence on the fortunes of poor Dirck; nor am I at all certain its + effects did not long linger in the temperament of some others that might + be named. + </p> + <p> + As our turns had now come, we were summoned to the presence of this female + soothsayer. It is unnecessary to describe the apartment in which we found + Mother Doortje. It had nothing unusual in it, with the exception of a + raven, that was hopping about the floor, and which appeared to be on the + most familiar terms with its mistress. Doortje, herself, was a woman of + quite sixty, wrinkled, lean, and hag-like; and, I thought, some care had + been taken, in her dress, to increase the effect of this, certainly her + natural appearance. Her cap was entirely of black muslin; though her dress + itself, was grey. The eye of this woman was of the colour of her gown; and + it was penetrating, restless, and deep-seated. Altogether, she looked the + character well. + </p> + <p> + On our entrance, after saluting the fortune-teller, each of us laid a + French crown on the table at which she was seated. This coin had become + quite current among us, since the French troops had penetrated into our + colony; and it was even said they purchased supplies with it, from certain + of our own people. As we had paid the highest price ever given, for these + glimpses into futurity, we thought ourselves entitled to have the pages of + the sealed book freely opened to us. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish to see me together; or shall I communicate with one at a + time?” demanded Doortje, in her husky, sepulchral voice; which, it struck + me, obtained its peculiar tones partly from nature, and partly from art. + </p> + <p> + It was settled that she should commence with Mr. Worden; but, that all + might remain in the room the whole time. While we were talking over this + point, Doortje's eyes were by no means fixed, but, I remarked, that they + wandered from person to person; like those of one who was gathering + information. Many persons do not believe, at all, in the art of the + fortune-teller; but insist that there is nothing more in it than trick and + management; pretending that this very woman kept the blacks of the town in + pay, to bring her information; and that she never told anything of the + past, which was true, that had not been previously communicated to + herself. I shall not pretend to affirm that the art goes as far as many + imagine; but, it strikes me, that it is very presuming, to deny that there + is some truth in these matters. I do not wish to appear credulous; though, + at the same time, I hold it to be wrong to deny our testimony to facts + that we are convinced are true. <a href="#linknote-29" + name="linknoteref-29" id="linknoteref-29"><small>29</small></a> + </p> + <p> + Doortje commenced by shuffling an exceedingly dirty pack of cards; which + had probably been used five hundred times, on similar duty. She next + caused Mr. Worden to cut these cards; when a close and musing examination + succeeded. All this time, not a syllable was said; though we were startled + by a low whistle, from the woman; which brought the raven upon her + shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mother,” cried Mr. Worden, with a little impatience, at what he + fancied mummery, “I am dying to hear what <i>has</i> happened, that I may + put the more faith in what <i>is</i> to happen. Tell me something of the + crop of wheat, I put into the ground, last autumn; how many bushels I + sowed, and on how many acres; whether on new land, or on old?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, ay, you have sowed!—and you have sowed!” answered the woman, on + a high key, for her; “but your seed fell among tares, and on the flinty + ground; and you'll never reap a soul among 'em all! Broadcast may you sow—but + narrow will be your harvest.” + </p> + <p> + The Rev. Mr. Worden gave a loud hem—placed his arms akimbo—and + seemed determined to brazen it out; though, I could easily perceive, that + he felt excessively awkward. + </p> + <p> + “How is it, with my cattle? and shall I send much mutton to market, this + season?” + </p> + <p> + “A wolf, in sheep's clothing!” muttered Doortje. “No—no—you + like hot suppers, and ducks, and lectures to cooks more than gathering in + the harvest of the Lord!” + </p> + <p> + “Come, this is folly, woman!” exclaimed the parson, angrily. “Give me some + common sense, for my good French crown. What do you see, in that knave of + diamonds, that you study its face so closely?” + </p> + <p> + “A loping Dominie!—a loping Dominie!” screamed the hag, several + times, rather than exclaiming aloud. “See!—he runs, for life; but + Beelzebub will overtake him!” + </p> + <p> + There was a sudden, and dead pause; for the Rev. Mr. Worden had caught up + his hat, and darted from the room; quitting the house, as if already + busily engaged in the race alluded to. Guert shook his head, and looked + serious; but, perceiving that the woman was already tranquil, and was + actually shuffling the cards anew, in his behalf, he advanced to learn his + fate. I saw the eyes of Doortje fastened keenly on him, as he took his + stand near the table, and the corners of her mouth curled in a significant + smile. What that meant, exactly, I have never been able to ascertain. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, you wish to know something of the past, like all the rest of + them,” mumbled the woman, “so that you may have faith in what you hear + about the future?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mother,” answered Guert, passing his hand through his own fine head + of natural curls, and speaking a little hastily, “I do not know that it is + any great matter about the past. What is done, is done; and there is an + end of it. A young man may not wish to hear of such things, at the moment, + perhaps, when he is earnestly bent on doing better. We are all young, once + in our lives, and we can grow old only after having been so.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—yes—I see how it is!” muttered Doortje. “So—so—turkeys—turkeys; + ducks—ducks—quaack—quaack—quaack—gobble, + gobble, gobble—” Here, the old hag set up such an imitation of + ducks, geese, turkeys, game-cocks, and other birds, that one who was in an + outer room, might well have imagined he heard the cries of a regular + poultry-yard. I was startled, myself, for the imitation was very admirable—but + Guert was obliged to wipe the perspiration from his face. + </p> + <p> + “That will do—that will do, Mother!” the young man exclaimed. “I + see, you know all about it; and there is no use in attempting disguises + with you. Now, tell me, if I am ever to be a married man, or not. My + errand here, is to learn that fact; and I may as well own it, at once.” + </p> + <p> + “The world has many women in it—and fair faces are plenty, in + Albany,” once more mumbled the woman, examining her cards, with great + attention. “A youth, like you, might marry twice, even.” + </p> + <p> + “No, <i>that</i> is impossible; if I do not marry a particular lady, I + shall never marry at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—yes—I see how it is!—You are in love, young man.” + </p> + <p> + “D'ye hear that, Corny! Isn't it wonderful, how these creatures can tell? + I admit the truth of what you say; but, describe to me the lady that I + love.” + </p> + <p> + Guert had forgotten, altogether, that the use of the word <i>lady</i>, + completely betrayed the fact of his disguise; since no man, truly of his + dress and air, would think of applying such a word to his sweetheart. <a + href="#linknote-30" name="linknoteref-30" id="linknoteref-30"><small>30</small></a> + I could not prevent these little betrayals of himself, however; for, by + this time, my companion was too much excited, to hear reason. + </p> + <p> + “The lady that you love,” answered the fortune-teller, deliberately, and + with the manner of one that proceeded with great confidence, “is <i>very</i> + handsome, in the first place.” + </p> + <p> + “True as the sun in the heavens, Mother!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, she is virtuous, and amiable, and wise, and witty, and good.” + </p> + <p> + “The Gospel is not more certain! Corny, this surpasses belief!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, she is <i>young</i>. Yes, she is young, and fair, and good; three + things that make her much sought after.” + </p> + <p> + “Why is she so long reflecting on my offers, Mother, tell me that, I beg + of you; or, will she ever consent to have me?” + </p> + <p> + “I see—I see—it is all here, on the cards. The lady cannot + make up her mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Listen to that, now, Corny; and do not tell me there is nothing in this + art. <i>Why</i> does she not make up her mind? For Heaven's sake, let me + know <i>that</i>? A man may tire of offering to marry an angel, and + getting no answer. I wish to know the reason of her doubts.” + </p> + <p> + “A woman's mind is not easily read. Some are in haste, while some are not. + I am of opinion you wish to get an answer before the lady is ready to give + it. Men must learn to wait.” + </p> + <p> + “She really seems to know all about it, Corny! Much as I have heard of + this woman, she exceeds it all! Good Mother, can you tell me how I can + gain the consent of the woman I love?” + </p> + <p> + “That is only to be had by asking. Ask once, ask twice, ask thrice.” + </p> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas! I have asked, already, twenty times! If asking would do + it, she would have been my wife a month since. What do you think, Corny—no, + I'll not do it—it is not manly to get the secrets of a woman's + heart, by means like these—I'll not ask her!” + </p> + <p> + “The crown is paid, and the truth must be said. The lady you love, loves + you, and she does not love you; she will have you, and she won't have you; + she thinks <i>yes</i>, and she says <i>no</i>.” + </p> + <p> + Guert now trembled all over, like an aspen-leaf. + </p> + <p> + “I do not believe there is any harm, Corny, in asking whether I gained or + lost by the affair of the river? I <i>will</i> ask her that much, of a + certainty. Tell me, Mother, am I better or worse, for a certain thing that + happened about a month ago—about the time that the ice went, and + that we had a great freshet?” + </p> + <p> + “Guert Ten Eyck, why do you try me thus?” demanded the fortune-teller, + solemnly. “I knew your father, and I knew your mother; I knew your + ancestors in Holland, and their children in America. Generations on + generations have I known your people, and you are the first that I have + seen so ill-clad! Do you suppose, boy, that old Doortje's eyes are getting + dim, and that she cannot tell her own nation? I saw you on the river—ha! + ha! 't was a pleasant sight—Jack and Moses, too; how they snorted, + and how they galloped! Crack—crack—that's the ice—there + comes the water!—See, that bridge may hit you on the head! Do <i>you</i> + take care of this bird, and do <i>you</i> take care of <i>that</i>—and + all will come round with the seasons. Answer me one thing, Guert Ten Eyck, + and answer me truly. Know you ever a young man who goes quickly into the + bush?” + </p> + <p> + “I do, Mother; this young man, my friend, intends to go in a few days, or + as soon as the weather is settled.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! go you with him—absence makes a young woman know her own + mind, when asking will gain nothing. Go you with him, I say; and if you + hear muskets fired, go near them; <i>fear</i> will sometimes make a young + woman speak. You have your answer, and I will tell no more. Come hither, + young owner of many half-joes, and touch that card.” + </p> + <p> + “I did as ordered; when the woman began to mumble to herself, and to run + over the pack as rapidly as she could. Kings, aces, and knaves were + examined, one after another, until she had got the Queen of Hearts in her + hand, which she held up to me in triumph. + </p> + <p> + “That is <i>your</i> lady. She is a queen of too many hearts! The Hudson + did that for you, that it has done for many a poor man before you. Yes, + yes; the river did you good: but water will drown, as well as make tears. + Do <i>you</i> beware of Knights Barrownights!” <a href="#linknote-31" + name="linknoteref-31" id="linknoteref-31"><small>31</small></a> + </p> + <p> + Here Mother Doortje came to a dead stand in her communications, and not + another syllable of any sort could either of us get from her; though, + between us, as many as twenty questions were asked. Signs were made for us + to depart; and when the woman found our reluctance, she laid a crown for + each of us, on the table, with a dignified air, and went into a corner, + seated herself, and began to rock her body, like one impatient of our + presence. After so unequivocal a sign that she considered her work as + done, we could not well do less than return; leaving the money behind us, + as a matter of course. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-27" id="linknote-27"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 27 (<a href="#linknoteref-27">return</a>)<br /> [ In plain English, the + “great go-to-bed,” and the “little go-to-bed.” There may be a portion of + our readers who are not aware that the word “levee,” meaning a morning + reception <i>by</i> a great man, is derived from the French “lever,” which + means “to rise,” or “to get up.” The kings of France were in the habit of + receiving homage at their morning toilets; a strange custom, that + doubtless had its origin in the <i>empressement</i> of the courtier to + inquire how his master had slept; which receptions were divided into two + classes, the “<i>grand lever</i>” and the “<i>petit lever</i>”—the + “great getting-up” or the “little getting-up.” The first was an occasion + of more state than the last. Even down to the time of Charles X., the + court papers seldom went a week without announcing that the king had + signed the contract of marriage—a customary compliment in France, + among friends of this of that personage—at the “grand lever,” or at + the “petit lever;” the first, I believe, but am not certain, being the + greater honour of the two.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-28" id="linknote-28"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 28 (<a href="#linknoteref-28">return</a>)<br /> [ Doortje—pronounced + Doort-yay—means Dorothea. Mr. Littlepage uses a sort of corruption + of the pronunciation. I well remember a fortune-teller of that name, in + Albany; though it could not have been the Doortje of 1758.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-29" id="linknote-29"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 29 (<a href="#linknoteref-29">return</a>)<br /> [ It is quite evident, that + Mr. Cornelius Littlepage was, to agree at least, a believer in the + fortune-teller's art. This was, however, no more than was common, a + century since. Quite within my recollection, the Albanians had a + celebrated dealer in the black art, who was regularly consulted, on the + subject of all lost spoons, and the pilfering of servants, by the good + housewives of the town, as recently as my school-boy days. The Dutch, like + the Germans, appear to have been prone to this species of superstition; + from which, even the English of education were far from being free, a + century since. Mademoiselle Normand existed in the present century, even, + in the sceptical capital of France. But, the somnambulist is taking the + place of the ancient soothsayer, in our own times.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-30" id="linknote-30"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 30 (<a href="#linknoteref-30">return</a>)<br /> [ This might have been + true, in 1758; but is not true for 1845.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-31" id="linknote-31"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 31 (<a href="#linknoteref-31">return</a>)<br /> [ In the colony of New + York, there lived but one titled man, for a considerable period. It was + the celebrated Sir William Johnson, Bart., of Johnson Hall, Johnstown, + Albany, now Fulton County. The son of Sir William Johnson was knighted + during his father's life-time, and was Sir John while Sir William was + living. At the death of his father, he was Sir John Johnson, Kt. & + Bart.; and it was usual for the common class of people to style him a + Knight, of Barrow<i>night</i>.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Virtue, how frail it is! + Friendship, too rare! + Love, how it sells poor bliss + For proud despair! + But we, though soon they fall, + Survive their joy, and all + Which ours we call. + + SHELLEY. +</pre> + <p> + Guert Ten Eyck was profoundly impressed with what he had heard, in his + visit to the fortune-teller. It affected his spirits, and, as will be + seen, it influenced all his subsequent conduct. As for myself, I will not + say that I totally disregarded what had passed; though the effect was + greatly less on me, than it was on my friend. The Rev. Mr. Worden, + however, treated the matter with great disdain. He declared that he had + never before been so insulted in his life. The old hag, no doubt, had seen + us all before, and recognised him. Profiting by a knowledge of this sort—that + was very easily obtained in a place of the size of Albany—she had + taken the occasion to make the most of the low gossip that had been + circulated at his expense. “Loping Dominie, indeed,” he added; “as if any + man would not run to save his life! You saw how it was with the river, + Corny, when it once began to break up, and know that my escape was + marvellous. I deserve as much credit for that retreat, boy, as Xenophon + did for his retreat with the Ten Thousand. It is true, I had not + thirty-four thousand, six hundred and fifty stadia to retreat over; but + acts are to be estimated more by quality, than by quantity. The best + things are always of an impromptu character; and, generally, they are on a + small scale. Then, as for all you tell me about Guert; why, the hussy knew + him—<i>must</i> have known him, in a town like Albany, where the + fellow has a character that identifies him with all sorts of fun and + roguery. Jack, and Moses, too! Do you think the inspiration of even an + evil spirit, or of forty thousand devils, would lead a fortune-teller to + name any horse Moses? Jack might do, perhaps; but <i>Moses</i> would never + enter the head of even an imp! Remember, lad, Moses was the great + law-giver of the Jews; and such a creature would be as apt to suppose a + horse was named Confucius, as to suppose he was named Moses!” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the inspiration, as you call it, sir, would lead a clever + fortune-teller to give things as they are; and to call the horses by their + real names, let them be what they might.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, such inspiration as this miserable, old, wrinkled, impudent she-devil + enjoys! Don't tell me, Corny; there is no such thing as fortune-telling; + at least, nothing that can be depended on in all cases—and this is + one of downright imposition. 'Loping Dominie,' forsooth!” + </p> + <p> + Such were the Rev. Mr. Worden's sentiments on the subject of Mother + Doortje's revelations. He exacted a pledge from us all, to say nothing + about the matter; nor were we much disposed to be communicative on the + subject. As for Guert, Dirck, Jason, and myself, we did not hesitate to + converse on the circumstances of our visits, among ourselves, however; and + each and all of us viewed the matter some what differently from our + Mentor. I ascertained that Jason had been highly gratified with what had + been predicted on his own behalf; for what was wealth in his eyes had been + foretold as his future lot; and a man rarely quarrels with good fortune, + whether in prospective, or in possession. Dirck, though barely twenty, + began to talk of living a single life from this time; and no laughter of + mine could induce the poor lad to change his views, or to entertain + livelier hopes. Guert was deeply impressed, as has been said; and feeling + no restraint in the matter of his own case, he took occasion to speak of + his visit to the woman, one morning that Herman Mordaunt, the two ladies, + Bulstrode, and myself, were sitting together, chatting, in the freedom of + what had now become a very constant intercourse. + </p> + <p> + “Are such things as fortune-tellers known in England, Mr. Bulstrode?” + Guert abruptly commenced, fastening his eyes on Mary Wallace, as he asked + the question; for on her were his thoughts running at the time. + </p> + <p> + “All sorts of silly things are to be found in Old England, Mr. Ten Eyck, + as well as some that are wise. I believe London has one or two + soothsayers; and I think I have heard elderly people say that the fashion + of consulting them has somewhat increased, since the court has been so + German.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” Guert innocently replied; “I find it easy to believe that; for, it + is a common saying, among our people, that the German and Low Dutch + fortune-tellers are the best known. They have had, or pretend to have had, + witches in New England; but no one, hereabouts, puts any faith in the + pretence. It is like all the bragging of these boastful Yankees!” + </p> + <p> + I observed that Mary Wallace's colour deepened; and that, in biting off a + thread, she profited, by the occasion, to avert her face in such a manner, + that Bulstrode, in particular, could not see it. + </p> + <p> + “The meaning of all this,” put in Major Bulstrode “is, that our friend + Guert has been to pay a visit to Mother Doortje's; a woman of some note, + who lives on the hill, and who has a reputation, in that way, among these + good Albanians! Several of our mess have been to see the old woman.” + </p> + <p> + “It is, Mr. Bulstrode,” Guert answered, in his manly way, and with a + gravity which proved how much he was in earnest. “I have been to see + Mother Doortje, for the first time in my life; and Corny Littlepage, here, + was my companion. Long as I have known the woman by reputation, I have + never had any curiosity to pay her a visit, until this spring. We have + been, however; and, I must say, I have been greatly surprised at the + extent of the knowledge of this very extraordinary person.” + </p> + <p> + “Did she tell you to look into the sweetmeat-pot, for the lost spoon, Mr. + Ten Eyck,” Anneke inquired, with an archness of eye and voice, that sent + the blood to my own face, in confusion. “They say, that fortune-tellers + send all prudent, yet careless housewives, to the sweetmeat-pots, to look + for the lost spoons! Many have been found, I hear, by this wonderful + prescience.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Miss Anneke, I see, you have no faith,” answered Guert, fidgeting; + “and people who have no faith, never believe. Notwithstanding, <i>I</i> + put so much confidence in what Doortje has told me, that I intend to + follow her advice let matters turn out as they may.” + </p> + <p> + Here Mary Wallace raised her thoughtful, full, blue eyes to the face of + the young man; and they expressed an intense interest, rather than any + light curiosity, that even her woman's instinct and woman's sensitiveness + could not so far prevail, as to enable her to conceal. Still, Mary Wallace + did not speak, leaving the others present to maintain the discourse. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, you mean to tell us all about it, Ten Eyck,” cried the Major; + “there is nothing more likely to succeed, with an audience, than a good + history of witchcraft, or something so very marvellous, as to do violence + to common sense, before we give it our faith.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, Mr. Bulstrode; these are things I cannot well mention; though, + Corny Littlepage will testify, that they are very wonderful. At any rate, + I shall go into the bush, this spring; and Littlepage and Follock, being + excellent companions, I propose to join their company. It will be late, + before the army will be ready to move; and, by that time, all three of us + propose to join you before Ticonderoga; if, indeed, you succeed in getting + so far.” + </p> + <p> + “Say, rather, in front of Montreal; for, I trust, this new + Commander-In-Chief will find something more for us to do, than the last + one did. Shall I have a sentinel placed at Doortje's door, in your + absence, Guert!” + </p> + <p> + The smile, this question produced, was general; Guert, himself, joining in + it; for his good-nature was of proof. When I say the smile was general, + however, I ought to except Mary Wallace, who smiled little, that morning. + </p> + <p> + “We shall be neighbours, then,” Herman Mordaunt quietly observed; “that is + to say, if you mean, by accompanying Corny and Dirck to the bush, you + intend to go with them to the patent, lately obtained by Messrs. + Littlepage and Van Valkenburgh. I have an estate, in that quarter, which + is now ten years old; and these ladies have consented to accompany me + thither, as soon as the weather is a little more settled, and I can be + assured that our army will be of sufficient force to protect us from the + French and Indians.” + </p> + <p> + It is unnecessary for me to say with what delight Guert and I heard this + announcement! On Bulstrode, however, it produced an exactly contrary + effect. He did not appear, to me, to be surprised, at a declaration that + was so new to us; but several expressions fell from him, that showed he + had no idea the two estates, that of Herman Mordaunt's, and that which + belonged to us, lay so near together. It was by means of <i>his</i> + questions, indeed, that I learned the real facts of the case. It appeared + that Herman Mordaunt's business, in Albany, was to make some provisions in + behalf of this property, on which he had caused mills to be erected, and + some of the other improvements of a new settlement, to be made, two or + three years before; and which, by the progress and events of the war, was + getting to be in closer proximity to the enemy, than was desirable. Even + where the French lay, at Ticonderoga, his mills, in particular, might be + thought in some danger, though forty or more miles distant; for parties of + savages, led on by white men, frequently marched that distance through the + forests, in order to break up a settlement and to commit depredations. But + the enemy had crossed Lake George, the previous summer, and had actually + taken Fort William Henry, at its southern extremity, by siege. It is true, + this was the extent of their inroad; and, it was now known, that they had + abandoned this bold conquest, and had fallen back upon Ty and Crown Point, + two of the strongest military positions in the British colonies. Still, + Ravensnest, as Herman Mordaunt's property was called, was far from being + beyond the limits of sorties; and the residence, at Albany, was solely to + watch the progress of events in that quarter, and to be near the scene. If + he had any public employment, it remained a profound mystery. A new source + of embarrassment had arisen, however; and this it was that decided the + proprietor to visit his lands in person. The fifteen or twenty families he + had succeeded in establishing on the estate, at much cost and trouble, had + taken the alarm at the prospect of a campaign in their vicinity; and had + announced an intention of abandoning their huts and clearings, as the + course most expedient for the times. Two or three had already gone off + towards the Hampshire Grants, whence they had originally come; profiting + by the last of the snow; and, it was feared, that others might imitate + their caution. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt saw no necessity for this abandonment of advantages over + the wilderness, that had been obtained at so much cost and trouble. The + labour of a removal, and a return, was sufficient, of itself, to give a + new direction to the movements of his settlers; and, as their first + entrance into the country had been effected through his agency, and aided + by his means, he naturally wished to keep the people he had got to his + estate with so much difficulty, and at so much cost, at their several + positions, as long, at least, as he conceived it to be prudent. In these + circumstances, therefore, he had determined to visit Ravensnest in person, + and to pass a part, if not most of the summer, among his people. This + would give them confidence, and would enable him to infuse new life into + their operations. It would seem, that Anneke and Mary Wallace had refused + to let Mr. Mordaunt go alone; and, believing, himself, there was no danger + in the course he was about to take, the father and guardian, for Mary + Wallace was Herman Mordaunt's ward, had yielded to the importunities of + the two girls; and it had been formally decided that they were all to + proceed together, as soon as the season should get to be a little more + advanced. Intelligence of this intention had been sent to the settlers; + and its effect was to induce them to remain at their posts, by pacifying + their fears. + </p> + <p> + I might as well add, here, what I learned subsequently, in the due course + of events. Bulstrode had been made acquainted with Herman Mordaunt's + plans, they being sworn friends, and the latter warmly in the interest of + the former's suit; and he had known how to profit by the information. It + was now time to put the troops in motion; and several parties had already + marched towards the north, taking post at different points that it was + thought desirable to occupy, previously to the commencement of the + campaign. Among other corps under orders of this nature, was that + commanded by Bulstrode; and he had sufficient interest, at head-quarters, + to get it sent to the point nearest to Ravensnest; where it gave him the + double advantage, of having it in his power to visit the ladies, on + occasion, while, at the same time, he must appear, to them, somewhat in + the character of a protector. The object of Dirck and myself, in visiting + the north, was no secret; and, it was generally understood, that we were + to go to Mooseridge; but we did not know, ourselves, that Herman Mordaunt + had an estate so near us. This intelligence, as has been said, I now + ascertained, was as new to Bulstrode as it was to myself. + </p> + <p> + The knowledge of many little things I have just mentioned, was obtained by + me only at intervals, and by means of observation and discourse. + Nevertheless, the main points were determined on the morning on which + Guert referred to his visit to the fortune-teller, and in the manner + named. The conversation lasted an hour; nor did it cease, until all + present got a general idea of the course intended to be pursued by the + different parties present, during the succeeding summer. + </p> + <p> + It happened, that morning, that Bulstrode, Dirck, and Guert withdrew + together, the two last to look at a horse the former had just purchased, + leaving me alone with the young ladies. No sooner was the door closed on + the retiring members of our party, than I saw a smile struggling about the + handsome mouth of Anneke; Mary Wallace continuing the whole time + thoughtful, if not sad. + </p> + <p> + “And <i>you</i> were of the party at the fortune-teller's, too, it seems, + Mr. Littlepage,” Anneke remarked, after appearing to be debating with + herself on the propriety of proceeding any farther in the subject. “I knew + there was such a person in Albany, and that thrifty housekeepers <i>did</i> + sometimes consult her; but I was ignorant that men, and <i>educated</i> + men, paid her that honour.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe there is no exception in the way of sex or learning, to her + influence, or her authority. They tell me that most of the younger + officers of the army visit her, while they remain here.” + </p> + <p> + “I would much like to know if Mr. Bulstrode has been of the number! He is + young enough in years, though so high in rank. A major may have as much + curiosity as an ensign; or, as it may appear, dear Mary, of a woman who + has lost her grandmother's favourite dessert-spoon.” + </p> + <p> + Mary Wallace gave a gentle sigh, and she even raised her eyes from her + work; still, she made no answer. + </p> + <p> + “You are severe on us, Anneke;” for, since the affair on the river, the + whole family treated me with the familiarity of a son or a brother—“I + fancy we have done no more than Mr. Mordaunt has done in his day.” + </p> + <p> + “This may be very true, Corny, and not make the consultation the wisest + thing in nature. I hope, however, you do not keep your fortune a secret, + but let your friends share in your knowledge!” + </p> + <p> + “To me the woman was far from being communicative, though she treated + Guert Ten Eyck better. Certainly, she told him many extraordinary things, + of the past even; unless indeed, she knew who he was.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it probable, Mr. Littlepage,” said Mary Wallace, “that any person in + Albany should not know Guert Ten Eyck, and a good deal of his past + history? Poor Guert makes himself known wherever he is!” + </p> + <p> + “And, often much to his advantage,” I added—a remark that cost me + nothing; but which caused Mary Wallace's face to brighten, and even + brought a faint smile to her lips. “All that is true; yet there <i>was</i> + something wild and unnatural in the woman's manner, as she told these + things!” + </p> + <p> + “All of which you seem determined to keep to yourself?” observed Anneke, + as one asks a question. + </p> + <p> + “It would hardly do to betray a friend's secrets. Let Guert answer for + himself; he is as frank as broad day, and will not hesitate about letting + you know all.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish Corny Littlepage were only as frank as twilight!” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to conceal—and least of all from you, Anneke. The + fortune-teller told me that the queen of my heart was the queen of <i>too + many</i> hearts; that the river had done me no harm; and that I must + particularly beware of what she called Knights-Barrow<i>nights</i>.” + </p> + <p> + I watched Anneke closely, as I repeated this warning of Mother Doortje; + but could not read the expression of her sweet and thoughtful countenance. + She neither smiled nor frowned; but she certainly blushed. Of course, she + did not look at me—for that would have been to challenge + observation. Mary Wallace, however, <i>did</i> smile, and she <i>did</i> + look at me. + </p> + <p> + “You believe all the wizzard told you, Corny?” said Anneke, after a short + pause. + </p> + <p> + “I believed that the queen of my heart was the queen of many hearts; that + the river had done me no harm—though I could not say, or see, that + it had done me much good; and that I had much to fear from Knights-Barrow<i>nights</i>. + I believed all this, however, before I ever saw the fortune-teller.” + </p> + <p> + The next remark that was made came from Anneke, and it referred to the + weather. The season was opening finely, and fast; and it could not be long + before the great movements of the year must commence. Several regiments + had arrived in the colonies, and various officers of note and rank had + accompanied them. Among others who had thus crossed the Atlantic for the + first time, was my Lord Howe, a young soldier of whom fame spoke + favourably, and from whom much was expected in the course of the + anticipated service of the year. While we were talking over these things, + Herman Mordaunt re-entered the room, after a short absence, and he took me + with him to examine his preparations for transporting the ladies to + Ravensnest. As we went along, the discourse was maintained, and I learned + many things from my older and intelligent companion, that were new to me. + </p> + <p> + “New lords, new laws, they say, Corny,” continued Herman Mordaunt; “and + this Mr. Pitt, the great commoner, as some persons call him, is bent on + making the British empire feel the truth of the axiom. Everything is alive + in the colonies, and the sluggish period of Lord Loudon's command is + passed. Gen. Abercrombie, an officer from whom much is expected, is now at + the head of the King's troops, and there is every prospect of an active + and most important campaign. The disgraces of the few last years <i>must</i> + be wiped out, and the English name be made once more to be dreaded on this + continent. The Lord Howe of whom Anneke spoke, is said to be a young man + of merit, and to possess the blood of our Hanoverian monarchs; his mother + being a half-sister, in the natural way, of his present Majesty.” + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt then spoke more fully of his own plans for the summer—expressed + his happiness at knowing that Dirck and myself were to be what he called + his neighbours—though, on a more exact computation, it was + ascertained, that the nearest boundaries of the two patents, that of + Ravensnest, and that of Mooseridge, lay quite fourteen miles apart, with a + dense and virgin forest between them. Nevertheless, this would be making + us neighbours, in a certain sense; as gentlemen always call men of their + own class neighbours, when they live within visiting distance, or near + enough to be seen once or twice in a year. And such men <i>are</i> + neighbours, in the sense that is most essential to the term—they + know each other better; understand each other better; sympathize more + freely; have more of the intercourse that makes us judges of motives, + principles, and character, twenty-fold, than he who lives at the gate, and + merely sees the owner of the grounds pass in and out, on his daily + avocations. There is, and can be no greater absurdity, than to imagine + that the sheer neighbourhood, or proximity of position, makes men + acquainted. That was one of Jason Newcome's Connecticut notions. Having + been educated in a state of society in which all associated on a certain + footing of intimacy, and in which half the difficulties that occurred were + “told to the church,” he was for ever fancying he knew all the gentry of + Westchester, because he had lived a year or two in the county; when, in + fact, he had never spoken to one in a dozen of them. I never could drive + this notion out of his head, however; for <i>looking</i> often at a man, + or occasionally exchanging a bow with him on the highway, he would insist + was knowing him, or what he called, being “well acquainted;” a very + favourite expression of the Danbury man's; though their sympathies, + habits, opinions, and feelings, created so vast a void between the + parties, they hardly understood each other's terms, and ordinary language, + when they did begin to converse, as sometimes happened. Notwithstanding + all this, Jason insisted to the last that he <i>knew</i> every gentleman + in the county, whom he had been accustomed to hear alluded to in + discourse, and when he had seen them once or twice, though it were only at + church. But Jason had a very flattering notion, generally, of his own + acquisitions on all subjects. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt had made careful provision for the contemplated journey; + having caused a covered vehicle to be constructed, that could transport + not only himself and the ladies, but many articles of furniture that would + be required during their residence in the forest. Another conveyance, + strong, spacious, and covered, was also prepared for the blacks, and + another portion of the effects. He pointed out all these arrangements to + me with great satisfaction, dwelling on the affection and spirit of the + girls with a pleasure he did not affect to conceal. For my own part, I + have always been of opinion, that Anneke was solely influenced by pure, + natural regard, in forming her indiscreet resolution; while her father was + governed by the secret expectation that the movement would leave open the + means of receiving visits and communications from Bulstrode, during most + of the summer. I commended the arrangements, made one or two suggestions + of my own in behalf of Anneke and Mary, and we returned to our several + homes. + </p> + <p> + A day or two after this visit to the workshops, and the conversation + related, the ——th took up its line of march for the north. The + troops defiled through the narrow streets in the neighbourhood of the + barracks, half an hour after the appearance of the sun, preceded and + followed by a long train of baggage-wagons. They marched without tents, + however, it being well understood that they were going into a region where + the axe could at any time cover thousands of men, in about the time that a + camp could be laid out, and the canvass spread. Hutting was the usual mode + of placing an army under cover in the forest; and a dozen marches would + take the battalion to the point where it was intended it should remain, as + a support to two or three other corps still further in advance, and to + keep open the communications. + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode, however, did not quit Albany in company with his regiment. I + had been invited, with Guert and Dirck, to breakfast at Herman Mordaunt's + that morning; and, as we approached the door, I saw the Major's groom + walking his own and his master's horse, in the street, near by. This was a + sign we were to have the pleasure of Bulstrode's company at breakfast. + Accordingly, on entering the room, we found him present, in the uniform of + an officer of his rank, about to commence a march in the forests of + America. I thought him melancholy, as if sad at parting; but my most + jealous observation could detect no sign of similar feeling on the part of + Anneke. She was not quite as gay as usual, but she was far from being sad. + </p> + <p> + “I leave you, ladies, with the deepest regret,” said Bulstrode, while at + table, “for you have made this country more than a home to me—you + have rendered it <i>dear</i>.” + </p> + <p> + This was said with feeling; more than I had ever seen Bulstrode manifest + before, and more than I had given him credit for possessing. Anneke + coloured a little; but there was no tremor in the beautiful hand, that + held a highly-wrought little tea-pot suspended over a cup, at that very + moment. + </p> + <p> + “We shall soon meet again, Harry,” Herman Mordaunt remarked, in a tone of + strong affection; “for, our party will not be a week behind you. Remember, + we are to be <i>good</i> neighbours, as well as neighbours; and, if the + mountain will not come to Mahomet, Mahomet must go to the mountain.” + </p> + <p> + “Which means, Mr. Bulstrode,” said Mary Wallace, with one of her sweet + smiles, and one that was as open and natural as childhood itself, “that + you are Mahomet, and we are the mountain. Ladies can neither travel, with + comfort, in a wilderness, nor visit a camp, with propriety, if they + would.” + </p> + <p> + “They tell me, I shall not be in a camp at all,” answered the soldier; + “but in good, comfortable log-barracks, that have been built for us by the + battalion we relieve. I am not without hopes, they will be such as even + ladies will not disdain to use, on an emergency. There ought to be no + Mahomet, and no mountain, between such old and intimate friends.” + </p> + <p> + The conversation then turned on the plans and expectations of the + respective parties; and the usual promises were made, of being sociable + and good neighbours, as had just been suggested. Herman Mordaunt evidently + wished to consider Bulstrode as one of his family; a feeling that might + excuse itself to the world, on the score of consanguinity; but which, it + was easy enough, for me, to see, had its origin in a very different cause. + When Bulstrode rose to take his leave, I wished myself away, on account of + the exhibition of concern it produced; while the desire to watch the + effect on Anneke, would have kept me rooted to the floor, even had it been + proper that I should retire. + </p> + <p> + Bulstrode was more affected than I could have thought possible. He took + one of Herman Mordaunt's hands into his own, and pressed it warmly, for + some little time, before he could speak at all. + </p> + <p> + “God only knows what this summer is to see, and whether we are ever to + meet again, or not,” he then said, “but, come what may, the past, the <i>happy + past</i>, is so much gained from the commonplace. If you never hear of me + again, my dear kinsman, my letters to England will give you a better + account of my gratitude, than anything I can say in words. They have been + written as your kindnesses have been bestowed; and they faithfully + pourtray the feelings to which your hospitality and friendship have given + rise. In a possible event, I have requested that every one of them may be + sent to America, for your special perusal—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, my dear Harry, this is foreboding the very worst,” interrupted + Herman Mordaunt, dashing a tear from his eye, “and is making a very short + separation, a more serious matter than one ought—” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, sir, a soldier, who is about to be posted within striking distance + of his enemy, can never speak, with confidence, of separations that are to + be short. This campaign will be decisive, for me,”—glancing towards + Anneke—“I must return a conqueror, in one sense, or I do not wish to + return at all. But, God bless you, Herman Mordaunt, as your own countrymen + call you; a thousand years could not efface from my heart, the remembrance + of all your kindness.” + </p> + <p> + This was handsomely expressed; and the manner in which it was uttered, was + as good as the language. Bulstrode hesitated a moment—looked at the + two girls in doubt—and first approached Mary Wallace. + </p> + <p> + “Adieu, excellent Mary Wallace,” he said, taking her offered hand, and + kissing it with a freedom from emotion, that denoted it was only + friendship and respect which induced the act—“I believe, you are a + severe critic on Catos and Scrubs; but, I forgive all your particular + backbitings, on account of your general indulgence and probity. You may + meet with a thousand mere acquaintances, before you find another who shall + have the same profound respect for your many virtues, as myself.” + </p> + <p> + This was handsomely said, too; and it caused Mary Wallace to remove the + handkerchief from her eyes, and to utter her adieus cordially, and with + some emotion. Strangers say that our women want feeling—passion; or, + if they have it, that it is veiled behind a mask of coldness, that takes + away from its loveliness and warmth; that they are girlish and familiar, + where they might better be reserved; and distant, and unnatural, where + feeling and nature ought to assert their sway. That they have less <i>manner</i>, + in all respects, in that of self-control, and perhaps of self-respect, in + their ordinary intercourse, and in that of <i>acting</i>, where it may + seem necessary so to do, I believe to be true; buts he who denies an + American girl a heart, knows nothing about her. She is <i>all</i> heart; + and the apparent coldness is oftener the consequence of not daring to + trust her feelings, and her general dislike to everything artificial, than + to any want of affections. Two girls, educated, however, as had been + Anneke and Mary Wallace, could not but acquit themselves better, in such a + scene, than those who had been less accustomed to the usages of polite + life, which are always more or less, the usages of convention. + </p> + <p> + On the present occasion, Mary Wallace was strongly affected; it would not + have been possible, for one of her gentle nature and warm affections, to + be otherwise, when an agreeable companion, one she had now known + intimately near two years, was about to take his leave of her, on an + errand that he himself either thought, or affected so well to seem to + think, might lead to the most melancholy issue. She shook hands with + Bulstrode, warmly; wished him good fortune, and various other pleasant + things; thanked him for his good opinion, and expressed her hope, as well + as her belief, that they should all meet again before the summer was over, + and again be happy in each other's society. + </p> + <p> + Anneke's turn came next. Her handkerchief was at her eyes; and, when it + was removed, the face was pale, and the cheeks were covered with tears. + The smile that followed, was sweetness itself; and, I will own, it caused + me a most severe pang. To my surprise, Bulstrode said nothing. He took + Anneke's hand, pressed it to his heart, kissed it, left a note in it, + bowed, and moved away. I felt ashamed to watch the countenance of Miss + Mordaunt, under such circumstances, and turned aside, that observation + might not increase the distress and embarrassment she evidently felt. I + saw enough, notwithstanding, to render me more uncertain than ever, as to + the success of my own suit. Anneke's colour had come and gone, as + Bulstrode stood near her, acting his dumb-show of leave-taking; and, to + me, she seemed far more affected than Mary Wallace had been. Nevertheless, + her feelings were always keener and more active than those of her friend; + and, that which my sensitiveness took for the emotion of tenderness, might + be nothing more than ordinary womanly feeling and friendship. Besides, + Bulstrode was actually her relative. + </p> + <p> + We men all attended Bulstrode to his horse. He shook us cordially by the + hand; and, after he had got into the saddle, he said—“This summer + will be warmer than is usual, even in your warmy-cold climate. My letters + from home give me reason to think that there is, at last, a man of talents + at the head of affairs; and the British empire is likely to feel the + impulse he will give it, at its most remote extremities. I shall expect + you three young men to join the ——th, as volunteers, as soon + as you hear of our moving in advance. I wish I had a thousand like you; + for that affair of the river tells where a man will be found when the time + comes. God bless you, Corny!” leaning forward in his saddle, to give me + another shake of the hand; “we <i>must</i> remain friends, <i>coute qui + couté</i>.” + </p> + <p> + There was no withstanding this frankness, and so much good-temper. We + shook hands most cordially; Bulstrode raised his hat and bowed; after + which he rode away, as I fancied, at a slow, thoughtful, reluctant pace. + Notwithstanding the kindness of this parting, I had more cause than ever + to regret Bulstrode had appeared among us; and the scenes of that morning + only confirmed me in a resolution, previously adopted, not to urge Anneke + to any decision, in my case, at a moment when I felt there might be so + much danger it would be adverse. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Come, let a proper text be read, + An' touch it aff wi' vigour, + How graceless Ham leugh at his dad, + Which made Canaan a nigger.” + + BURNS. +</pre> + <p> + Ten days after the departure of the ——th, Herman Mordaunt and + his family, with our own party, left Albany, on the summer's business. In + that interval, however, great changes had taken place in the military + aspect of things. Several regiments of King's troops ascended the Hudson, + most of the sloops on the river, of which there could not have been fewer + than thirty or forty, having been employed in transporting them and their + stores. Two or three corps came across the country, from the eastern + colonies, while several provincial regiments appeared; everything tending + to a concentration at this point, the head of navigation on the Hudson. + Among other men of mark, who accompanied the troops, was Lord Viscount + Howe, the nobleman of whom Herman Mordaunt had spoken. He bore the local + rank of Brigadier, <a href="#linknote-32" name="linknoteref-32" + id="linknoteref-32"><small>32</small></a> and seemed to be the very soul + of the army. It was not his personal consideration alone, that placed him + so high in the estimation of the public and of the troops, but his + professional reputation, and professional services. There were many young + men of rank in the army present; and, as for younger sons of peers, there + were enough to make honourables almost as plenty, at Albany, as they were + at Boston. Most of the colonial families of mark had sons in the service, + too; those of the middle and southern colonies bearing commissions in + regular regiments, while the provincial troops from the eastern were led, + as was very usual, in that quarter of the country, by men of the class of + yeomen, in a great degree; the habits of equality that prevailed in those + provinces making few distinctions, on the score of birth or fortune. + </p> + <p> + Yet it was said, I remember, that obedience was as marked, among the + provincials from Massachusetts and Connecticut, as among those that came + from farther south; the men deferring to authority, as the agent of the + laws. They were fine troops, too; better than our own colony regiments, I + must acknowledge; seeming to belong to a higher class of labourers; while, + it must be admitted, that most of their officers were no very brilliant + representatives of manners, acquirements, or habits, that would be likely + to qualify them for command. It must have been that the officers and men + suited each other; for, it was said all round, that they stood well, and + fought very bravely, whenever they were particularly well led, as did not + always happen to be the case. As a body of mere physical men, they were + universally allowed to be the finest corps in the army, regulars and all + included. + </p> + <p> + I saw Lord Howe two or three times, particularly at the residence of Madam + Schuyler, the lady I have already had occasion to mention, and to whom I + had given the letter of introduction procured by my mother, the Mordaunts + visiting her with great assiduity, and frequently taking me with them. As + for Lord Howe, himself, he almost lived under the roof of excellent Madam + Schuyler; where, indeed, all the good company assembled at Albany, was, at + times, to be seen. + </p> + <p> + Our party was a large one; and, it might have passed for a small corps of + the army itself, moving on in advance; as was the case with corps, or + parts of corps, now, almost daily. Herman Mordaunt had delayed our + departure, indeed, expressly with a view to render the country safe, by + letting it fill with detachments from the army; and our progress, when we + were once in motion, was literally from post to post; encampment to + encampment. It may be well to enumerate our force, and to relate the order + of our march, that the reader may better comprehend the sort of business + we were on. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt took with him, in addition to the ladies, a black cook, + and a black serving-girl; a negro-man, to lake care of his horses, and + another as his house-servant. He had three white labourers, in addition—men + employed about the teams, and as axe-men, to clear the woods, bridge the + streams, and to do other work of that nature, as it might be required. On + our side, there were us three gentlemen, Yaap, my own faithful negro, Mr. + Traverse, the surveyor, two chain-bearers, and two axe-men. Guert Ten Eyck + carried with him, also, a negro-man, who was called Pete; it being + contrary to <i>bonos mores</i> to style him Peter or Petrus; the latter + being his true appellation. This made us ten men strong, of whom eight + were white, and two black. Herman Mordaunt mustered, in all, just the same + number, of which, however, four were females. Thus, by uniting our forces, + we made a party of twenty souls, altogether. Of this number, all the + males, black and white, were well armed, each man owning a good rifle, and + each of the gentlemen a brace of pistols in addition. We carried the + latter belted to our bodies, with the weapons, which were small and fitted + to the service, turned behind, in such a way as to be concealed by our + outer garments. The belts were also hid by the flaps of our nether + garments. By this arrangement, we were well armed without seeming to be + so; a precaution that is sometimes useful in the woods. + </p> + <p> + It is hardly necessary to say, that we did not plunge into the forest in + the attire in which we had been accustomed to appear in the streets of New + York and Albany. Cocked hats were laid aside altogether; forest caps, + resembling in form those we had worn in the winter, with the exception + that the fur had been removed, being substituted. The ladies wore light + beavers, suited to their sex; there being little occasion for any shade + for the face, under the dense canopies of the forest. Veils of green, + however, were added, as the customary American protection for the sex. + Anneke and Mary travelled in habits, made of light woman's cloth, and in a + manner to fit their exquisite forms like gloves. The skirts were short, to + enable them to walk with ease, in the event of being compelled to go + a-foot. A feather or two, in each hat, had not been forgotten—the + offering of the natural propensity of their sex, to please the eyes of + men. + </p> + <p> + As for us men, buckskin formed the principal material of our garments. We + all wore buckskin breeches, and gaiters, and moccasins. The latter, + however, had the white-man's soles; though Guert took a pair or two with + him that were of the pure Indian manufacture. Each of us had a coatee, + made of common cloth; but we all carried hunting-shirts, to be worn as + soon as we entered the woods. These hunting-shirts, green in colour, + fringed and ornamented garments, of the form of shirts to be worn over + all, were exceedingly smart in appearance, and were admirably suited to + the woods. It was thought that the fringes, form, and colour, blended them + so completely with the foliage, as to render them in a manner invisible to + one at a distance; or at least, undistinguished. They were much in favour + with all the forest corps of America, and formed the usual uniform of the + riflemen of the woods, whether acting against man, or only against the + wild beasts. + </p> + <p> + Neither Mr. Worden, nor Jason, moved with the main party; and it was + precisely on account of these distinctions of dress. As for the divine, he + was so good a stickler for appearances, he would have worn the gown and + surplice, even on a mission to the Indians; which, by-the-way, was + ostensibly his present business; and, at the several occasions, on which I + saw him at cock-fights, he kept on the clerical coat and shovel-hat. In a + word, Mr. Worden never neglected externals, so far as dress was concerned; + and, I much question, if he would have consented to read prayers without + the surplice, or to preach without the gown, let the desire for spiritual + provender be as great as it might. I very well remember to have heard my + father say, that, on one occasion, the parson had refused to officiate of + a Sunday, when travelling, rather than bring discredit on the church, by + appearing in the discharge of his holy office, without the appliances that + belonged to the clerical character. + </p> + <p> + “More harm than good is done to religion, Mr. Littlepage,” said the Rev. + Mr. Worden, on that occasion, “by thus lessening its rites in vulgar eyes. + The first thing is to teach men to respect holy things, my dear sir; and a + clergyman in his gown and surplice, commands threefold the respect of one + without them. I consider it, therefore, a sacred duty to uphold the + dignity of my office on all occasions.” + </p> + <p> + It was in consequence of these opinions, that the divine travelled in his + clerical hat, clerical coat, black breeches, and band, even when in + pursuit of the souls of red men among the wilds of North America! I will + not take it upon myself to say, these observances had not their use; but I + am very certain they put the reverend gentleman to a great deal of + inconvenience. + </p> + <p> + As for Jason, he gave a Danbury reason for travelling in his best. + Everybody did so, in his quarter of the country; and, for his part, he + thought it disrespectful to strangers, to appear among them in old + clothes! There was, however, another and truer reason, and that was + economy; for the troops had so far raised the price of everything, that + Jason did not hesitate to pronounce Albany the dearest place he had ever + been in. There was some truth in this allegation; and the distance from + New York, being no less than one hundred and sixty miles—so reported—the + reader will at once see, it was the business of quite a month, or even + more, to re-furnish the shelves of the shop that had been emptied. The + Dutch not only moved slow, but they were methodical; and the shopkeeper + whose stores were exhausted in April, would not be apt to think of + replenishing them, until the regular time and season returned. + </p> + <p> + As a consequence of these views and motives, the Rev. Mr. Worden and Mr. + Jason Newcome left Albany twenty-four hours in advance of the rest of our + party, with the understanding they were to join us at a point where the + road led into the woods, and where it was thought the cocked hat and the + skin cap might travel in company harmoniously. There was, however, a + reason for the separation I have not yet named, in the fact that all of my + own set travelled on foot, three or four pack-horses carrying our + necessaries. Now Mr. Worden had been offered a seat in a government + conveyance, and Jason managed to worm himself into the party, in some way + that to me was ever inexplicable. It is, however, due to Mr. Newcome to + confess that his faculty of obtaining favours of all sorts, was of a most + extraordinary character; and he certainly never lost any chance of + preferment for want of asking. In this respect, Jason was always a moral + enigma, to me; there being an absolute absence, in his mind, of everything + like a perception of the fitness of things, so far as the claims and + rights of persons were connected with rank, education, birth, and + experience. Rank, in the official sense, once possessed, he understood and + respected; but of the claims to entitle one to its enjoyment, he seemed to + have no sort of notion. For property he had a profound deference, so far + as that deference extended to its importance and influence; but it would + have caused him not the slightest qualm, either in the way of conscience + or feeling, to find himself suddenly installed in the mansion of the + patroons, for instance, and placed in possession of their estates, + provided only he fancied he could maintain his position. The circumstance + that he was dwelling under the roof that was erected by another man's + ancestors, for instance, and that others were living who had a better + moral right to it, would give him no sort of trouble, so long as any quirk + of the law would sustain him in possession. In a word, all that was allied + to sentiment, in matters of this nature, was totally lost on Jason + Newcome, who lived and acted, from the hour he first came among us, as if + the game of life were merely a game of puss in the corner, in which he who + inadvertently left his own post unprotected, would be certain to find + another filling his place as speedily as possible. I have mentioned this + propensity of Jason's at some little length, as I feel certain, should + this history be carried down by my own posterity, as I hope and design, it + will be seen that this disposition to regard the whole human family as so + many tenants in common, of the estate left by Adam, will lead, in the end, + to something extraordinary. But, leaving the Rev. Mr. Worden and Mr. Jason + Newcome to journey in their public conveyance, I must return to our own + party. + </p> + <p> + All of us men, with the exception of those who drove the two wagons of + Herman Mordaunt, marched a-foot. Each of us carried a knapsack, in + addition to his rifle and ammunition; and, it will be imagined, that our + day's work was not a very long one. The first day, we halted at Madam + Schuyler's, by invitation, where we all dined; including the surveyor. + Lord Howe was among the guests, that day, and he appeared to admire the + spirit of Anneke and Mary Wallace greatly, in attempting such an + expedition, at such a time. + </p> + <p> + “You need have no fears, however, ladies, as we shall keep up strong + detachments between you and the French,” he said, more gravely, after some + pleasant trifling on the subject. “Last summer's work, and the disgraceful + manner in which poor Munro was abandoned to his fate, has rendered us all + keenly alive to the importance of compelling the enemy to remain at the + north end of Lake George; too many battles having already been fought on + this side it, for the credit of the British arms. We pledge ourselves to + your safety.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke thanked him for this pledge, and the conversation changed. There + was a young man present, who bore the name of Schuyler, and who was nearly + related to Madam, with whose air, manner and appearance I was much struck. + His aunt called him 'Philip;' and, being about my own age, during this + visit I got into conversation with him. He told me he was attached to the + commissariat under Gen. Bradstreet, and that he should move on with the + army, as soon as the preparations for its marching were completed. He then + entered into a clear, simple explanation of the supposed plan of the + approaching campaign. + </p> + <p> + “We shall see you and your friends among us, then, I hope,” he added, as + we were walking on the lawn together, previously to the summons to dinner; + “for, to own to you the truth, Mr. Littlepage, I do not half like the + necessity of our having so many eastern troops among us, to clear this + colony of its enemies. It is true, a nation must fight its foes wherever + they may happen to be found; but there is so little in common, between us + and the Yankees, that I could wish we were strong enough to beat back the + French alone.” + </p> + <p> + “We have the same sovereign and the same allegiance,” I answered; “if you + can call that something in common.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true; yet, I think you must have enough Dutch blood about you to + understand me. My duty calls me much among the different regiments; and, I + will own, that I find more trouble with one New England regiment, than + with a whole brigade of the other troops. They have generals, and + colonels, and majors, enough for the army of the Duke of Marlborough!” + </p> + <p> + “It is certain, there is no want of military rank among them—and + they are particularly fond of referring to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true,” answered young Schuyler, smiling. “You will hear the word + 'general' or 'colonel' oftener used, in one of their cantonments, in a + day, than you shall hear it at Head Quarters in a month. They have capital + points about them, too; yet, somehow or other, we do not like each other.” + </p> + <p> + Twenty years later in life, I had reason to remember this remark, as well + as to reflect on the character of the man who had uttered it. I, or my + successors, will probably have occasion to advert to matters connected + with this feeling, in the later passages of this record. + </p> + <p> + I had also a little conversation with Lord Howe, who complimented me on + what had passed on the river. He had evidently received an account of that + affair from some one who was much my friend, and saw fit to allude to the + subject in a way that was very agreeable to myself. This short + conversation was not worth repeating, but it opened the way to an + acquaintance that subsequently was connected with some events of interest. + </p> + <p> + About an hour after dinner, our party took its leave of Madam Schuyler, + and moved on. The day's march was intended to be short, though by this + time the roads were settled, and tolerably good. Of roads, however, we + were not long to enjoy the advantages, for they extended only some thirty + miles to the north of Albany, in our direction. With the exception of the + military route, which led direct to the head-waters of Lake Champlain, + this was about the extent of all the avenues that penetrated the interior, + in that quarter of the country. Our direction was to the northward and + eastward, both Ravensnest and Mooseridge lying slightly in the direction + of the Hampshire Grants. + </p> + <p> + As soon as we reached the point on the great northern road, or that which + led towards Skeenesborough, Herman Mordaunt was obliged to quit his + wagons, and to put all the females on horseback. The most necessary of the + stores were placed on pack-horses; and, after a delay of half a day, time + lost in making these arrangements, we proceeded. The wagons were to + follow, but at a slow pace, the ladies being compelled to abandon them on + account of the ruggedness of the ways, which would have rendered their + motion not easy to be borne. Our cavalcade and train of footmen made a + respectable display along the uneven road, which soon became very little + more than a line cut through the forest, with an occasional wheel-track, + but without the least attempt to level the surface of the ground by any + artificial means. This was the place where we were to overtake Mr. Worden + and Jason, and where we did find their effects; the owners themselves + having gone on in advance, leaving word that we should fall in with them + somewhere on the route. + </p> + <p> + Guert and I marched in front, our youth and vigour enabling us to do this + with great ease to ourselves. Knowing that the ladies were well cared for, + on horseback, we pushed on, in order to make provision for their + reception, at a house a few miles distant, where we were to pass the + night. This building was of logs, of course, and stood quite alone in the + wilderness, having, however, some twenty or thirty acres of cleared land + around it; and it would not do to pass it, at that time of the day. The + distance from this solitary dwelling to the first habitation on Herman + Mordaunt's property, was eighteen miles; and that was a length of road + that would require the whole of a long May day to overcome, under our + circumstances. + </p> + <p> + Guert and myself might have been about a mile in advance of the rest of + the party, when we saw a sort of semi-clearing before us, that we mistook + at first for our resting-place. A few acres had been chopped over, letting + in the light of the day upon the gloom of the forest, but the second + growth was already shooting up, covering the area with high bushes. As we + drew nearer, we saw it was a small, abandoned clearing. Entering it, + voices were heard at no great distance, and we stopped; for the human + voice is not heard, in such a place, without causing the traveller to + pause, and stand to his arms. This we did; after which we listened with + some curiosity and caution. + </p> + <p> + “High!” exclaimed some one, very distinctly, in English. + </p> + <p> + “Jack!” said another voice, in a sort of answering second that could not + well be mistaken. + </p> + <p> + “There's three for low;—is that good?” put in the first speaker. + </p> + <p> + “It will do, sir; but here are a ten and an ace. Ten and three, and four + and two make nineteen;—I'm game.” + </p> + <p> + “High, low, Jack and game!” whispered Guert; “here are fellows playing at + cards, near us; let us go on and beat up their quarters.” + </p> + <p> + We did so; and, pushing aside some bushes, broke, quite unexpectedly to + all parties, on the Rev. Mr. Worden and Jason Newcome, playing the game of + 'All Fours on a stump;' or, if not literally in the classic position of + using 'the stump,' substituting the trunk of a fallen tree for their + table. As we broke suddenly in upon the card-players, Jason gave + unequivocal signs of a disposition to conceal his hand, by thrusting the + cards he held into his bosom, while he rapidly put the remainder of the + pack under his thigh, pressing it down in a way completely to conceal it. + This sudden movement was merely the effect of a puritanical education, + which, having taught him to consider that as a sin which was not + necessarily a sin at all, exacted from him that hypocrisy which is the + tribute that vice pays to virtue! Very different was the conduct of the + Rev. Mr. Worden. Taught to discriminate better, and unaccustomed to set up + arbitrary rules of his own as the law of God, this loose observer of his + professional obligations is other matters, made a very proper distinction + in this. Instead of giving the least manifestation of confusion or alarm, + the log on which he was seated was not more unmoved than he remained, at + our sudden appearance at his side. + </p> + <p> + “I hope, Corny, my dear boy,” Mr. Worden cried, “that you did not forget + to purchase a few packs of cards; which I plainly see, will be a great + resource for us, in this woody region. These cards of Jason's are so + thumbed and handled, that they are not fit to be touched by a gentleman, + as I will show you.—Why, what has become of the pack, Master + Newcome?—It was on the log but a minute ago!” + </p> + <p> + Jason actually blushed! Yes, for a wonder, shame induced Jason Newcome to + change colour! The cards were reluctantly produced from beneath his leg, + and there the schoolmaster sat, as it might be in presence of his school + actually convicted of being engaged in the damning sin of handling certain + spotted pieces of paper, invented for, and used in the combinations of a + game played for amusement. + </p> + <p> + “Had it been push-pin, now,” Guert whispered, “it would give Mr. Newcome + no trouble at all; but he does not admire the idea of being caught at 'All + Fours, on a stump.' We must say a word to relieve the poor sinner's + distress. I have cards, Mr. Worden, and they shall be much at your + service, as soon as we can come at our effects. There is one pack in my + knapsack, but it is a little soiled by use, though somewhat cleaner than + that. If you wish it, I will hand it to you. I never travel without + carrying one or two clean packs with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Not just now, sir, I thank you. I love a game of Whist, or Picquet, but + cannot say I am an admirer of All Fours. As Mr. Newcome knows no other, we + were merely killing half an hour, at that game; but I have enough of it to + last me for the summer. I am glad that cards have not been forgotten, + however; for, I dare say, we can make up a very respectable party at + Whist, when we all meet.” + </p> + <p> + “That we can, sir, and a party that shall have its good players. Miss Mary + Wallace plays as good a hand at Whist, as a woman should, Mr. Worden; and + a very pretty accomplishment it is, for a lady to possess; useful, sir, as + well as entertaining; for anything is preferable to dummy. I do not think + a woman should play quite as well as a man, our sex having a natural claim + to lead, in all such things; but it is very convenient, sometimes, to find + a lady who can hold her hand with coolness and skill.” + </p> + <p> + “I would not marry a woman who did not understand Picquet,” exclaimed the + Rev. Mr. Worden; “to say nothing of Whist, and one or two other games. + But, let us be moving, since the hour is getting late.” + </p> + <p> + Move on we did, and in due time we all reached the place at which we were + to halt for the night. This looked like plunging into the wilderness + indeed; for the house had but two rooms, one of which was appropriated to + the use of the females, while most of us men took up our lodgings in the + barn. Anneke and Mary Wallace, however, showed the most perfect + good-humour; and our dinner, or supper might better be the name, was + composed of deliciously fat and tender broiled pigeons. It was the pigeon + season, the woods being full of the birds; and we were told, we might + expect to feast on the young to satiety. + </p> + <p> + About noon the next day, we reached the first clearing on the estate of + Ravensnest. The country through which we were travelling was rolling + rather than bold; but it possessed a feature of grandeur in its boundless + forests. Our route, that day, lay under lofty arches of young leaves, the + buds just breaking into the first green of the foliage, tall, straight + columns, sixty, eighty, and sometimes a hundred feet of the trunks of the + trees, rising almost without a branch. The pines, in particular, were + really majestic, most of them being a hundred and fifty feet in height, + and a few, as I should think, nearly if not quite two hundred. As + everything grows towards the upper light, in the forest, this ought not to + surprise those who are accustomed to see vegetation expand its powers in + wide-spreading tops, and low, gnarled branches that almost touch the + ground, as is the case in the open fields, and on the lawns of the older + regions. As is usual in the American virgin forest, there was very little + underbrush; and we could see frequently a considerable distance through + these long vistas of trees; or, indeed, until the number of the stems + intercepted the sight. + </p> + <p> + The clearings of Ravensnest were neither very large nor very inviting. In + that day, the settlement of new lands was a slow and painful operation, + and was generally made at a great outlay to the proprietor. Various + expedients were adopted to free the earth from its load of trees; <a + href="#linknote-33" name="linknoteref-33" id="linknoteref-33"><small>33</small></a> + for, at that time, the commerce of the colonies did not reward the toil of + the settler in the same liberal manner as has since occurred. Herman + Mordaunt, as we moved along, related to me the cost and trouble he had + been at already, in getting the ten or fifteen families who were on his + property, in the first place, to the spot itself; and, in the second + place, to induce them to remain there. Not only was he obliged to grant + leases for three lives, or, in some cases, for thirty or forty years, at + rents that were merely nominal, but, as a rule, the first six or eight + years the tenants were to pay no rent at all. On the contrary, he was + obliged to extend to them many favours, in various ways, that cost no + inconsiderable sum in the course of the year. Among other things, his + agent kept a small shop, that contained the most ordinary supplies used by + families of the class of the settler, and these he sold at little more + than cost, for their accommodation, receiving his pay in such articles as + they could raise from their half-tilled fields, or their sugar-bushes, and + turning those again into money, only after they were transported to + Albany, at the end of a considerable period. In a word, the commencement + of such a settlement was an arduous undertaking, and the experiment was + not very likely to succeed, unless the landlord had both capital and + patience. + </p> + <p> + The political economist can have no difficulty in discovering the causes + of the circumstances just mentioned. They were to be found in the fact + that people were scarce, while land was superabundant. In such a condition + of society, the tenant had the choice of his farm, instead of the + landlord's having a selection of his tenants, and the latter were to be + bought only on such conditions as suited themselves. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” continued Herman Mordaunt, as we walked together, conversing on + this subject, “that my twenty thousand acres are not likely to be of much + use to myself, even should they prove to be of any to my daughter. A + century hence, indeed, my descendants may benefit from all this outlay of + money and trouble; but it is not probable that either I or Anneke will + ever see the principal and interest of the sums that will be expended in + the way of roads, bridges, mills, and other things of that sort. Years + must go by, before the light rents which will only begin to be paid a year + or two hence, and then only by a very few tenants, can amount to a + sufficient sum to meet the expenses of keeping up the settlement, to say + nothing of the quit-rents to be paid to the crown.” + </p> + <p> + “This is not very encouraging to a new beginner in the occupation of a + landlord,” I answered; “and, when I look into the facts, I confess, I am + surprised that so many gentlemen in the colony are willing to invest the + sums they annually do in wild lands.” + </p> + <p> + “Every man who is at his ease in his moneyed affairs, Corny, feels a + disposition to make some provision for his posterity. This estate, if kept + together, and in single hands may make some descendant of mine a man of + fortune. Half a century will produce a great change in this colony; at the + end of that period, a child of Anneke's may be thankful that his mother + had a father who was willing to throw away a few thousands of his own, the + surplus of a fortune that was sufficient for his wants without them, in + order his grandson may see them converted into tens, or possibly into + hundreds of thousands.” + </p> + <p> + “Posterity will, at least, owe us a debt of gratitude, Mr. Mordaunt; for I + now see that Mooseridge is not likely to make either Dirck or myself very + affluent patroons.” + </p> + <p> + “On that you may rely. Satanstoe will produce you more than the large + tracts you possess in this quarter.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you no longer fear, sir, that the war, and apprehension of Indian + ravages, may drive your people off?” + </p> + <p> + “Not much at present, though the danger was great at one time. The war <i>may</i> + do me good, as well as harm. The armies consume everything they can get—soldiers + resembling locusts, in this respect. My tenants have had the commissaries + among them; and, I am told, every blade of grass they can spare—all + their surplus grain, potatoes, butter, cheese, and, in a word, everything + that can be eaten, and with which they are willing to part, has been + contracted for at the top of the market. The King pays in gold, and the + sight of the precious metals will keep even a Yankee from moving.” + </p> + <p> + About the time this was said, we came in sight of the spot Herman Mordaunt + had christened Ravensnest; a name that had since been applied to the whole + property. It was a log building, that stood on the verge of a low cliff of + rocks, at a point where a bird of that appellation had originally a nest + on the uppermost branches of a dead hemlock. The building had been placed, + and erected, with a view to defence, having served for some time as a sort + of rallying point to the families of the tenantry, in the event of an + Indian alarm. At the commencement of the present war, taking into view the + exposed position of his possessions on that frontier,—frontier as to + settlement, if not as to territorial limits,—Herman Mordaunt had + caused some attention to be paid to his fortifications; which, though they + might not have satisfied Mons. Vauban, were not altogether without merit, + considered in reference to their use in case of a surprise. + </p> + <p> + The house formed three sides of a parallelogram, the open portion of the + court in the centre, facing the cliff. A strong picket served to make a + defence against bullets on that side; while the dead walls of solid logs + were quite impregnable against any assault known in forest warfare, but + that of fire. All the windows opened on the court; while the single outer + door was picketed, and otherwise protected by the coverings of plank. I + was glad to see by the extent of this rude structure, which was a hundred + feet long by fifty in depth, that Anneke and Mary Wallace would not be + likely to be straitened for room. Such proved to be the fact; Herman + Mordaunt's agent having prepared four or five apartments for the family, + that rendered them as comfortable as people could well expect to be in + such a situation. Everything was plain, and many things were rude; but + shelter, warmth and security had not been neglected. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-32" id="linknote-32"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 32 (<a href="#linknoteref-32">return</a>)<br /> [ The ordinary American + reader may not know that the rank of Brigadier, in the British army, is + not a step in the regular line of promotion, as with us. In England, the + regular military gradations are from Colonel to Major-general, Lieut. + General, General, and Field Marshal. The rank of Brigadier is barely + recognised, like that of Commodore, in the navy, to be used on + emergencies; usually as brevet, <i>local</i> rank, to enable the + government to employ clever colonels at need.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-33" id="linknote-33"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 33 (<a href="#linknoteref-33">return</a>)<br /> [ The late venerable + Hendrick Frey was a man well known to all who dwelt in the valley of the + Mohawk. He had been a friend, contemporary, and it is believed an executor + of the celebrated Sir William Johnson, Bart. Thirty years since, he + related to the writer the following anecdote. Young Johnson first appeared + in the valley as the agent of a property belonging to his kinsman, Admiral + Sir Peter Warren, K. B.; who, having married in the colony, had acquired + several estates in it. Among other tracts was one called Warrens-bush, on + the Mohawk, on which young Johnson first resided. Finding it difficult to + get rid of the trees around his dwelling, Johnson sent down to the + admiral, at New York, to provide some purchases with which to haul the + trees down to the earth, after grubbing and cutting the roots on one side. + An acre was lowered in this manner, each tree necessarily lying at a + larger angle to the earth than the next beneath it. An easterly wind came + one night, and, to Johnson's surprise, he found half his trees erect + again, on rising in the morning! The mode of clearing lands by 'purchases' + was then abandoned.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “And long shall timorous fancy see + The painted chief and pointed spear; + And Reason's self shall bow the knee + To shadows and delusions here.” + + FRENEAU. +</pre> + <p> + It is not necessary to dwell on the manner in which Herman Mordaunt and + his companions became established at Ravensnest. Two or three days + sufficed to render them as comfortable as circumstances would permit; then + Dirck and I bethought us of proceeding in quest of the lands of + Mooseridge. Mr. Worden and Jason both declined going any further; the + mill-seat, of which the last was in quest, being, as I now learned, on the + estate of Herman Mordaunt, and having been for some time the subject of a + negotiation between the pedagogue and its owner. As for the divine, he + declared that he saw a suitable 'field' for his missionary labour where he + was; while, it was easy to see, that he questioned if there were fields of + any sort, where we were going. + </p> + <p> + Our party, on quitting Ravensnest, consisted of Dirck and myself, Guert, + Mr. Traverse, the surveyor, three chain-bearers, Jaap or Yaap, Guert's + man, Pete, and one woodsman or hunter. This would have given us ten + vigorous and well-armed men, for our whole force. It was thought best, + however, to add two Indians to our number, in the double character of + hunters and runners, or messengers. One of these red-skins was called + Jumper, in the language of the settlement where we found them; and the + other Trackless; the latter <i>sobriquet</i> having been given him on + account of a faculty he possessed of leaving little or no trail in his + journeys and marches. This Indian was about six-and-twenty years of age, + and was called a Mohawk, living with the people of that tribe; though, I + subsequently ascertained that he was, in fact, an Onondago <a + href="#linknote-34" name="linknoteref-34" id="linknoteref-34"><small>34</small></a> + by birth. His true name was Susquesus, or Crooked Turns; an appellation + that might or might not speak well of his character, as the Turns' were + regarded in a moral, or in a physical sense. + </p> + <p> + “Take that man, Mr. Littlepage, by all means,” said Herman Mordaunt's + agent, when the matter was under discussion. “You will find him as useful, + in the woods, as your pocket-compass, besides being a reasonably good + hunter. He left here, as a runner, during the heaviest of the snows, last + winter, and a trial was made to find his trail, within half an hour after + he had quitted the clearing, but without success. He had not gone a mile + in the woods, before all traces of him were lost, as completely as if he + had made the journey in the air.” + </p> + <p> + As Susquesus had a reputation for sobriety, as was apt to be the case with + the Onondagoes, the man was engaged, though one Indian would have been + sufficient for our purpose. But Jumper had been previously hired; and it + would have been dangerous, under our circumstances, to offend a red-man, + by putting him aside for another, even after compensating him fully for + the disappointment. By Mr. Traverse's advice, therefore, we took both. The + Indian or Mohawk name of Jumper, was Quissquiss, a term that, I fancy, + signified nothing very honourable or illustrious. + </p> + <p> + The girls betrayed deep interest in us, on our taking leave; more, I + thought, than either had ever before manifested. Guert had told me, + privately, of an intention, on his part, to make another offer to Mary + Wallace; and I saw the traces of it in the tearful eyes and flushed cheeks + of his mistress. But, at such a moment, one does not stop to think much of + such things; there being tears in Anneke's eyes, as well as in those of + her friend. We had a thousand good wishes to exchange; and we promised to + keep open; the communication between the two parties, by means of our + runners semi-weekly. The distance, which would vary from fifteen to thirty + miles, would readily admit of this, since either of the Indians would pass + over it, with the greatest ease to himself, in a day, at that season of + the year. + </p> + <p> + After all, the separation was to be short, for we had promised to come + over and dine with Herman Mordaunt on his fiftieth birth-day, which would + occur within three weeks. This arrangement made the parting tolerable to + us young men, and our constitutional gaiety did the rest. Half an hour + after the last breakfast at Ravensnest saw us all on our road, cheerful, + if not absolutely happy. Herman Mordaunt accompanied us three miles; which + led him to the end of his own settlements, and to the edge of the virgin + forest. There he took his leave, and we pursued our way with the utmost + diligence, for hours, with the compass for our guide, until we reached the + banks of a small river that was supposed to lie some three or four miles + from the southern boundaries of the patent we sought. I say, 'supposed to + lie,' for there existed then, and, I believe, there still exists much + uncertainty concerning the land-marks of different estates in the woods. + On the banks of this stream, which was deep but not broad, the surveyor + called a halt, and we made our dispositions for dinner. Men who had walked + as far and as fast as we had done, made but little ceremony and for twenty + minutes every one was busy in appeasing his hunger. This was no sooner + accomplished, however than Mr. Traverse summoned the Indians to the side + of the fallen tree on which we had taken our seats, when the first + occasion occurred for putting the comparative intelligence of the two + runners to the proof. At the same time the principal chain-bearer, a man + whose life had been passed in his present occupation, was brought into the + consultation, as follows. + </p> + <p> + “We are now on the banks of this stream, and about this bend in it,” + commenced the surveyor, pointing to the precise curvature of the river on + a map he had spread before him, at which he supposed we were actually + situated; “and the next thing is to find that ridge on which the moose was + killed, and across which the line of the patent we seek is known to run. + This abstract of the title tells us to look for a corner somewhere off + here, about a mile or a mile and a half from this bend in the river—a + black oak, with its top broken off by the wind, and standing in the centre + of a triangle made by three chestnuts. I think you told me, David that you + had never borne a chain on any of these ridges?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, never;” answered David, the old chain-bearer already mentioned; + “my business never having brought me out so far east.—A black oak, + with corner blazes on it, and its top broken down by the wind, and + standing atween three chestnuts, howsomedever, can be nothing so very hard + to find, for a person that's the least acquainted. These Injins will be + the likeliest bodies to know that tree, if they've any nat'ral knowledge + of the country.” + </p> + <p> + Know a tree! There we were, and had been for many hours, in the bosom of + the forest, with trees in thousands ranged around us; trees had risen on + our march, as horizon extends beyond horizon on the ocean, and this + chain-bearer fancied it might be in the power of one who often passed + through these dark and untenanted mazes, to recognise any single member of + those countless oaks, and beeches, and pines! Nevertheless, Mr. Traverse + did not seem to regard David's suggestion as so very extravagant, for he + turned towards the Indians and addressed himself to them. + </p> + <p> + “How's this?” he asked; “Jumper, do you know anything of the sort of tree + I have described?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” was the short, sententious answer. + </p> + <p> + “Then, I fear, there is little hope that Trackless is any wiser, as you + are Mohawk born, and <i>he</i>, they tell me, is at bottom an Onondago. + What say you, Trackless? can you help us to find the tree?” + </p> + <p> + My eyes were fastened on Susquesus, as soon as the Indians were mentioned. + There he stood, straight as the trunk of a pine, light and agile in + person, with nothing but his breech-cloth, moccasins, and a blue calico + shirt belted to his loins with a scarlet band, through which was thrust + the handle of his tomahawk, and to which were attached his shot-pouch and + horn, while his rifle rested against his body, butt downward. Trackless + was a singularly handsome Indian, the unpleasant peculiarities of his + people being but faintly portrayed in his face and form; while their + nobler and finer qualities came out in strong relief. His nose was almost + aquiline; his eye, dark as night, was restless and piercing; his limbs + Apollo-like; and his front and bearing had all the fearless dignity of a + warrior, blended with the grace of nature. The only obvious defects were + in his walk, which was Indian, or in-toed and bending at the knee; but, to + counterbalance these, his movements were light, springy and swift. I + fancied him, in figure, the very <i>beau-idéal</i> of a runner. + </p> + <p> + During the time the surveyor was speaking, the eye of Susquesus was + seemingly fastened on vacancy, and I would have defied the nicest observer + to detect any consciousness of what was in hand, in the countenance of + this forest stoic. It was not his business to speak, while an older runner + and an older warrior was present—for Jumper was both—and he + waited for others, who might know more, to reveal their knowledge ere he + produced his own. Thus directly addressed, however, all reserve vanished, + and he advanced two or three steps, cast a curious glance at the map, even + put a finger on the river, the devious course of which it followed across + the map, much as a child would trace any similar object that attracted his + attention. Susquesus knew but little of maps, it was clear enough; but the + result showed that he knew a great deal about the woods, his native field + of action. + </p> + <p> + “Well, what do you make of my map, Trackless,” repeated the surveyor. “Is + it not drawn to suit your fancy?” + </p> + <p> + “Good”—returned the Onondago, with emphasis. “Now show Susquesus <i>your</i> + oak tree.” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is, Trackless. You see it is a tree drawn in ink, with a broken + top, and here are the three chestnuts, in a sort of triangle, around it.” + </p> + <p> + The Indian examined the tree with some interest, and a slight smile + illumined his handsome, though dark countenance. He was evidently pleased + at this proof of accuracy in the colony surveyors, and, no doubt, thought + the better of them for the fidelity of their work. + </p> + <p> + “Good,” he repeated, in his low, guttural, almost feminine voice, so soft + and mild in its tone. “<i>Very</i> good. The pale-faces know everything! + Now, let my brother find the tree.” + </p> + <p> + “That is easier said than done, Susquesus,” answered Traverse, laughing. + “It is one thing to sketch a tree on a map, and another to go to its root, + as it stands in the forest, surrounded by thousands of other trees.” + </p> + <p> + “Pale-face must first see him, or how paint him? Where painter?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, the surveyor saw the tree once, and marked it once, but that is not + finding it again. Can you tell me where the oak stands? Mr. Littlepage + will give the man who finds that corner a French crown. Put me anywhere on + the line of the old survey, and I will ask favours of no one.” + </p> + <p> + “Painted tree <i>there</i>,” said Susquesus, pointing a little scornfully + at the map, as it seemed to me. “Pale-face can't find him in wood. Live + tree out younder; Injin know.” + </p> + <p> + Trackless pointed with great dignity towards the north east, standing + motionless as a statue the while, as if inviting the closest possible + scrutiny into the correctness of his assertion. + </p> + <p> + “Can you lead us to the tree?” demanded Traverse, eagerly. “Do it, and the + money is yours.” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus made a significant gesture of assent; then he set about + collecting the scanty remains of his dinner, a precaution in which we + imitated him, as a supper would be equally agreeable as the meal just + taken, a few hours later. When everything was put away, and the packs were + on our shoulders—not on those of the Indians, for <i>they</i> seldom + condescended to carry burthens, which was an occupation for women—Trackless + led the way, in the direction he had already pointed out. + </p> + <p> + Well did the Onondago deserve his name, as it seemed to me, while he + threaded his way through that gloomy forest, without path, mark or sign of + any sort, that was intelligible to others. His pace was between a walk and + a gentle trot, and it required all our muscles to keep near him. He looked + to neither the right nor the left, but appeared to pursue his course + guided by an instinct, or as the keen-scented hound follows the viewless + traces of his game. This lasted for ten minutes, when Traverse called + another halt, and we clustered together in council. + </p> + <p> + “How much further do you think it may be to the tree, Onondago?” demanded + the surveyor, as soon as the whole party was collected in a circle. “I + have a reason for asking.” + </p> + <p> + “So many minutes,” answered the Indian, holding up five fingers, or the + four fingers and thumb of his right hand. “Oak with broken top, and + pale-face marks, <i>there</i>.” + </p> + <p> + The precision and confidence with which the Trackless pointed, not a + little surprised me, for I could not imagine how any human being could + pretend to be minutely certain of such a fact, under the circumstances in + which we were placed. So it was, however; and so it proved in the end. In + the mean time, Traverse proceeded to carry out his own plans. + </p> + <p> + “As we are so near to the tree,” he said, for the surveyor had no doubt of + the red-man's accuracy, “<i>we</i> must also be near the line. The last + runs north and south, on this part of the patent, and we shall shortly + cross it. Spread yourselves, therefore, chain-bearers, and look for blazed + trees; for, put me anywhere on the boundaries, and I'll answer for finding + any oak, beech, or maple, that is mentioned in the corners.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as this order was received, all the surveyor's men obeyed, opening + the order of their march, and spreading themselves in a way to extend + their means of observing materially. When all was ready, a sign was made + to the Indian to proceed. Susquesus obeyed, and we were all soon in quick + motion again. + </p> + <p> + Guert's activity enabled him to keep nearest to the Onondago, and a shout + from his clear, full throat, first announced the complete success of the + search. In a moment the rest of us pressed forward, and were soon at the + end of our journey. There was Susquesus, quietly leaning against the trunk + of the broken oak, without the smallest expression of triumph in either + his manner or his countenance. That which he had done, he had done + naturally, and without any apparent effort or hesitation. To him the + forest had its signs, and metes, and marks—as the inhabitant of the + vast capital has his means of threading its mazes with the readiness of + familiarity and habit. As for Traverse, he first examined the top of the + tree, where he found the indicated fracture; then he looked round for the + three chestnuts, each of which was in its place; after which he drew near + to look into the more particular signs of his craft. There they were, + three of the inner sides of the oak being blazed, the proof it was a + corner; while that which had no scar on its surface looked outward, or + from the Patent of Mooseridge. Just as all these agreeable facts were + ascertained, shouts from the chain-bearers south of us, announced that + they had discovered the line—men of their stamp being quite as + quick-sighted, in ascertaining their own peculiar traces, as the native of + the forest is in finding his way to any object in it which he has once + seen, and may desire to revisit. By following the line, these men soon + joined us, when they gave us the additional information that they had also + actually found the skeleton of the moose that had given its name to the + estate. + </p> + <p> + Thus far, all was well, our success much exceeding our hopes. The hunters + were sent to look for a spring; and, one being found at no great distance, + we all repaired to the spot, and hutted for the night. Nothing could be + more simple than our encampment; which consisted of coverings made of the + branches of trees, with leaves and skins for our beds. Next day, however, + Traverse finding the position favourable for his work, he determined to + select the spot as head-quarters; and we all set about the erection of a + log-house, in which we might seek a shelter in the event of a storm, and + where we might deposit our implements, spare ammunition, and such stores + as we had brought with us on our backs. As everybody worked with good-will + at the erection of this rude building, and the labourers were very expert + with the axe, we had it nearly complete by the setting of the next day's + sun. Traverse chose the place because the water was abundant, and good, + and because a small knoll was near the spring, that was covered with young + pines that were about fourteen or fifteen inches in diameter, while they + grew to the height of near a hundred feet, with few branches, and straight + as the Onondago. These trees were felled, cut into lengths of twenty and + thirty feet, notched at the ends, and rolled alternately on each other, so + as to enclose an area that was one-third longer than it was wide. The + notches were deep, and brought the logs within two or three inches of each + other; and the interstices were filled with pieces of riven chestnut, a + wood that splits easily and in straight lines; which pieces were driven + hard into their beds, so as to exclude the winds and the rains. As the + weather was warm, and the building somewhat airy at the best, we cut no + windows, though we had a narrow door in the centre of one of the longer + sides. For a roof we used the bark of the hemlock, which, at that season, + came off in large pieces, and which was laid on sticks, raised to the + desired elevation by means of a ridge pole. + </p> + <p> + All this was making no more than one of the common log-houses of the new + settlements, though in a more hurried and a less artificial manner than + was usual. We had no chimney, for our cooking could be done in the open + air; and less attention was paid to the general finish of the work, than + might have been the case had we expected to pass the winter there. The + floor was somewhat rude, but it had the effect of raising us from the + ground, and giving us perfectly dry lodgings; an advantage not always + obtained in the woods. It was composed of logs roughly squared on three + sides, and placed on sleepers. To my surprise, Traverse directed a door to + be made of riven logs, that were pinned together with cross-pieces, and + which was hung on the usual wooden hinges. When I spoke of this as + unnecessary labour, occupying two men an entire day to complete, he + reminded me that we were much in advance from the settlements; that an + active war was being waged around us, and that the agents of the French + had been very busy among our own tribes, while those in Canada often + pushed their war-parties far within our borders. He had always found a + great satisfaction, as well as security, in having a sort of citadel to + retreat to, when on these exposed surveys; and <i>he</i> never neglected + the necessary precaution, when he fancied himself in the least danger. + </p> + <p> + We were quite a week in completing our house; though, after the first day, + neither the surveyor nor his chain-bearers troubled themselves with the + labour, any further than to make an occasional suggestion. Traverse and + his men went to work in their own pursuit, running lines to divide the + patent into its great lots, each of which was made to contain a thousand + acres. It should be mentioned that all the surveys, in that day, were made + on the most liberal scale, our forty thousand acres turning out, in the + end, to amount to quite three thousand more. So it was with the + subdivisions of the Patent, each of which was found to be of more than the + nominal dimensions. Blazed trees, and records cut into the bark, served to + indicate the lines, while a map went on <i>pari passu</i> with the labour, + the field-book containing a description of each lot, in order that the + proprietor of the estate might have some notions of the nature of its soil + and surface, as well as of the quality and sizes of the trees it bore. + </p> + <p> + The original surveyors, those on whose labours the patent of the King was + granted, had a comparatively trifling duty to perform. So long as they + gave a reasonably accurate outline of an area that would contain forty + thousand acres of land, more or less, and did not trespass on any prior + grant, no material harm could be done, there being no scarcity of surface + in the colony; but, Mr. Traverse had to descend to a little more + particularity. It is true, he ran out his hundreds of acres daily, duly + marking his corners and blazing his line trees, but something very like a + summer's work lay before him. This he understood, and his proceedings were + as methodical and deliberate as the nature of his situation required. + </p> + <p> + In a very few days, things had gotten fairly in train, and everybody was + employed in some manner that was found to be useful. The surveying party + was making a very satisfactory progress, running out their great lots + between sun and sun, while Dirck and myself made the notes concerning + their quality, under the dictation of Mr. Traverse. Guert did little + besides shoot and fish, keeping our larder well supplied with trout, + pigeons, squirrels, and such other game as the season would allow, + occasionally knocking over something in the shape of poor venison. The + hunters brought us their share of eatables also; and we did well enough, + in this particular, more especially is trout proved to be very abundant. + Yaap, or Jaap, as I shall call him in future, and Pete, performed domestic + duty, acting as scullions and cooks, though the first was much better + fitted to perform the service of a forester. The two Indians did little + else, for the first fortnight, but come and go between Ravensnest and + Mooseridge, carrying missives and acting as guides to the hunters, who + went through once or twice within that period, to bring us out supplies of + flour, groceries, and other similar necessaries; no inducement being able + to prevail on the Indians to carry anything that approached a burthen, + either in weight or appearance. + </p> + <p> + The surveying party did not always return to the hut at night, but it + 'camped out,' as they called it, whenever the work led them to a distance + on the other side of the tract. Mr. Traverse had chosen his position for + head-quarters more in reference to its proximity to the settlement at + Ravensnest, than in reference to its position on the Patent. It was + sufficiently central to the latter, as regarded a north and south line, + but was altogether on the western side of the property. As his surveys + extended east, therefore, he was often carried too far from the building + to return to it each night, though his absences never extended beyond the + evening of the third day. In consequence of this arrangement, his people + were enabled to carry the food they required without inconvenience, for + the periods they were away, coming back for fresh supplies as the lines + brought them west again. Sundays were strictly observed by us all, as days + of rest; a respect to the day that is not always observed in the forest; + he who is in the solitude of the woods, like him who roams athwart the + wastes of the ocean, often forgetting that the spirit of the Creator is + abroad equally on the ocean and on the land, ready to receive that homage + of his creatures, which is a tribute due to beneficence without bounds, a + holiness that is spotless, and a truth that is inherent. + </p> + <p> + As Jumper, or the Trackless, returned from his constantly recurring visits + to our neighbours, we young men waited with impatience for the letter that + the messenger was certain to bear. This letter was sometimes written by + Herman Mordaunt himself, but oftener by Anneke, or Mary Wallace. It was + addressed to no one by name, but uniformly bore the superscription of 'To + the Hermits of Mooseridge;' nor was there anything in the language to + betray any particular attention to either of the party. We might have + liked it better, perhaps, could we have received epistles that were a + little more pointed in this particular; but those we actually got were + much too precious to leave any serious grounds of complaint. One from + Herman Mordaunt reached us on the evening of the second Saturday, when our + whole party was at home, and assembled at supper. It was brought in by the + Trackless, and, among other matters, contained this paragraph: + </p> + <p> + “We learn that things hourly assume a more serious aspect with the armies. + Our troops are pushing north, in large bodies, and the French are said to + be reinforcing. Living as we do, out of the direct line of march, and + fully thirty miles in the rear of the old battle-grounds, I should feel no + apprehension, were it not for a report I hear, that the woods are full of + Indians. I very well know that such a report invariably accompanies the + near approach of hostilities in the frontier settlements, and is to be + received with many grains of allowance; but it seems so probable the + French should push their savages on this flank of our army, to annoy it on + the advance, that, I confess, the rumour has some influence on my + feelings. We have been fortifying still more; and I would advise you not + to neglect such a precaution altogether. The Canadian Indians are said to + be more subtle than our own; nor is government altogether without the + apprehension that our own have been tampered with. It was said at Albany, + that much French silver had been seen in the hands of the people of the + Six Nations; and that even French blankets, knives, and tomahawks, were + more plentiful among them than might be accounted for by the ordinary + plunder of their warfare. One of your runners, the man who is called the + Trackless, is said to live out of his own tribe; and such Indians are + always to be suspected. Their absence is sometimes owing to reasons that + are creditable; but far oftener to those that are not. It may be well to + have an eye on the conduct of this man. After all, we are in the hands of + a beneficent and gracious God, and we know how often his mercy has saved + us, on occasions more trying than this!” + </p> + <p> + This letter was read several times, among ourselves, including Mr. + Traverse. As the <i>oi polloi</i> of our party were eating out of + ear-shot, and the Indians had left us, it naturally induced a conversation + that turned on the risks we ran, and on the probability of Susquesus's + being false. + </p> + <p> + “As for the rumour that the woods are full of Indians,” the surveyor + quietly observed, “it is very much as Herman Mordaunt says—there is + never a blanket seen, but fame magnifies it into a whole bale. There is + danger to be apprehended from savages, I will allow, but not one-half that + the settlers ordinarily imagine. As for the French, they are likely to + need all their savages at Ty; for, they tell me Gen. Abercrombie will go + against them with three men to their one.” + </p> + <p> + “With that superiority, at least,” I answered; “but, after all, would not + a sagacious officer be likely to annoy his flank, in the manner here + mentioned?” + </p> + <p> + “We are every mile of forty to the eastward of the line of march; and why + should parties keep so distant from their enemies?” + </p> + <p> + “Even such a supposition would place our foes between us and our friends; + no very comfortable consideration, of itself. But, what think you of this + hint concerning the Onondago?” + </p> + <p> + “There may be truth in <i>that</i>—more than in the report that the + woods are full of savages. It is usually a bad sign when an Indian quits + his tribe; and this runner of ours is certainly an Onondago; <i>that</i> I + know, for the fellow has twice refused rum. Bread he will take, as often + as offered; but rum has not wet his lips, since I have seen him, offered + in fair weather or foul.” + </p> + <p> + “T'at <i>is</i> a bad sign”—put in Guert, a little dogmatically for + him. “T'e man t'at refuses his glass, in good company, has commonly + something wrong in his morals. I always keep clear of such chaps.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Guert!—How true that was, and what an influence the opinion had + on his character and habits. As for the Indian, I could not judge him so + harshly. There was something in his countenance that disposed me to put + confidence in him, at the very moment his cold, abstracted manners—cold + and abstracted even for a red-skin in pale-face company—created + doubts and distrust. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, nothing is easier than for a man in his situation to sell us,” + I answered, after a short pause, “if he be so disposed. But, what could + the French gain by cutting off a party as peaceably employed as this? It + can be of no moment to them, whether Mooseridge be surveyed into lots this + year, or the next.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true; and I am of opinion that Mons. Montcalm is very indifferent + whether it be ever surveyed at all,” returned Traverse, who was an + intelligent and tolerably educated man. “You forget, however, Mr. + Littlepage, that both parties offer such things as premiums on scalps. A + Huron may not care about our lines, corners, and marked trees; but he <i>does</i> + care, a great deal, whether he is to go home with an empty string, or with + half-a-dozen human scalps at his girdle.” + </p> + <p> + I observed that Dirck thrust his fingers through his bushy hair, and that + his usually placid countenance assumed an indignant and semi-ferocious + appearance. A little amused at this, I walked towards the log on which + Susquesus was seated, having ended his meal, in silent thought. + </p> + <p> + “What news do you bring us from the red-coats, Trackless?” I asked, with + as much of an air of indifference as I could assume. “Are they out in + sufficient numbers to eat the French?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at leaves; count 'em;” answered the Indian. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I know they are in force; but, what are the red-skins about? Is the + hatchet buried, among the Six Nations, that you are satisfied with being a + runner, when scalps may be had near Ticonderoga?” + </p> + <p> + “Susquesus <i>Onondago</i>”—the red-man replied, laying a strong + emphasis on the name of his tribe. “No Mohawk blood run in him. <i>His</i> + people no dig up hatchet, this summer.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, Trackless? You are allies of the Yengeese, and ought to give us + your aid, when it is wanted.” + </p> + <p> + “Count leaves—count Yengeese. Too much for one army. No want + Onondago.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be true, possibly, for we are certainly very strong. But, how is + it with the woods—are they altogether clear of red-skins, in times + as troublesome as these?” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus looked grave, but he made no answer. Still, he did not endeavour + to avoid the keen look I fastened on his face, but sat composed, rigid, + and gazing before him. Knowing the uselessness of attempting to get + anything out of an Indian, when he was indisposed to be communicative, I + thought it wisest to change the discourse. This I did by making a few + general inquiries as to the state of the streams, all of which were + answered, when I walked away. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-34" id="linknote-34"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 34 (<a href="#linknoteref-34">return</a>)<br /> [ Pronounced On-on-daw-ger, + the latter syllable hard; or, like ga, as it is sometimes spelled. This is + the name of one of the midland counties of New York. The tribe from which + it is derived, in these later times, has over borne a better name for + morals, than its neighbours, the Oneidas, the Mohawks, &c., &c. + The Onondagoes belonged to the Six Nations.—Editor.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Fear not, till Birnam Wood + Shall come to Dunsinane.” + + <i>Macbeth</i>. +</pre> + <p> + I cannot say I was quite satisfied with the manner of Susquesus; nor, on + the other hand, was I absolutely uneasy. All might be well; and, if it + were not, the power of this man to injure us could not be very great. A + new occurrence, however, raised very unpleasant doubts of his honesty. + Jumper being out on a hunt, the Onondago was sent across to Ravensnest the + next trip, out of his turn; but, instead of returning, as had been the + practice of both, the next day, we saw no more of him for near a + fortnight. As we talked over this sudden and unexpected disappearance, we + came to the conclusion, that, perceiving he was distrusted, the fellow had + deserted, and would be seen no more. During his absence, we paid a visit + to Ravensnest ourselves, spending two or three happy days with the girls, + whom we found delighted with the wildness of their abode, and as happy as + innocence, health, and ceaseless interest in the forest and its habits, + could make them. Herman Mordaunt, having fortified his house sufficiently, + as he fancied, to remove all danger of an assault, returned with us to + Mooseridge, and passed two or three days in walking over and examining the + quality of the land, together with the advantages offered by the + water-courses. As for Mr. Worden and Jason, the former had gone to join + the army, craving the flesh-pots of a regimental mess, in preference to + the simple fare of the woods; while Jason had driven a hard bargain with + Herman Mordaunt for the possession of the mill-seat; which had been the + subject of frequent discussions between the parties, and about which the + pedagogue had deemed it prudent to draw on the wisdom of Mother Doortje. + As the reader may have some curiosity to know how such things were + conducted in the colony, in the year 1758, I will recapitulate the terms + of the bargain that was finally agreed on, signed and sealed. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt expected no emolument to himself, from Ravensnest, but + looked forward solely to a provision for posterity. In consequence of + these views, he refused to sell, but gave leases on such conditions as + would induce tenants to come into his terms, in a country in which land + was far plentier than men. For some reason, that never was very clear to + me, he was particularly anxious to secure Jason Newcome, and no tolerable + terms seemed extravagant to effect his purpose. It is not surprising, + therefore, that our miller in perspective got much the best of the + bargain, as its conditions will show. + </p> + <p> + The lease was for three lives, and twenty-one years afterwards. This would + have been thought equal to a lease for forty-two years, in that day, in + Europe; but experience is showing that it is, in truth, for a much longer + period, in America. <a href="#linknote-35" name="linknoteref-35" + id="linknoteref-35"><small>35</small></a> The first ten years, no rent at + all was to be paid. For the next ten, the land, five hundred acres, was to + pay sixpence currency an acre, the tenant having the right to cut timber + at pleasure. This was a great concession, as the mill-lot contained much + pine. For the remainder of the lease, be it longer or shorter, a shilling + an acre, or about sixpence sterling, was to be paid for the land, and + forty pounds currency, or one hundred dollars a year, for the mill-seat. + The mills to be taken by the landlord, at an appraisal 'made by men', at + the expiration of the lease; the tenant to pay the taxes. The tenant had + the privilege of using all the materials for his dams, buildings, &c., + he could find on the land. + </p> + <p> + The policy of the owners of Mooseridge was different. We intended to sell + at low prices, at first, reserving for leases hereafter, such farms as + could not be immediately disposed of, or for which the purchaser failed to + pay. In this manner it was thought we should sooner get returns for our + outlays, and sooner 'build up a settlement,' as the phrase goes. In + America, the reader should know, everything is 'built.' The priest 'builds + up' a flock; the speculator, a fortune; the lawyer, a reputation; and the + landlord, a settlement; sometimes, with sufficient accuracy in language, + he even builds a town. + </p> + <p> + Jason was a very happy man, the moment he got his lease, signed and + sealed, in his own possession. It made him a sort of a land-holder on the + spot, and one who had nothing to pay for ten years to come. God forgive + me, if I do the man injustice; but, from the first, I had a suspicion that + Jason trusted to fortune to prevent any pay-day from ever coming at all. + As for Herman Mordaunt, he seemed satisfied, for he fancied that he had + got a man of some education on his property, who might answer a good + purpose in civilizing, and in otherwise advancing the interests of his + estate. + </p> + <p> + Just as the rays of the rising sun streamed through the crevices of our + log tenement, and ere one of us three idlers had risen from his pallet, I + heard a moccasined foot moving near me, in the nearly noiseless tread of + an Indian. Springing to my feet, I found myself face to face with the + missing Onondago! + </p> + <p> + “You here, Susquesus!” I exclaimed; “we supposed you had abandoned us. + What has brought you back?” + </p> + <p> + “Time to go, now,” answered the Indian, quietly. “Yengeese and Canada + warrior soon fight.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this true!—And do you, <i>can</i> you know it to be true! Where + have you been this fortnight past?” + </p> + <p> + “Been see—have see—know him just so. Come—call young + men; go on war-path.” + </p> + <p> + Here, then, was an explanation of the mystery of the Onondago's absence! + He had heard us speak of an intention of moving with the troops, at the + last moment, and he had gone to reconnoitre, in order that we might have + seasonable notice when it would be necessary to quit the 'Ridge,' as we + familiarly termed the Patent. I saw nothing treasonable in this, but + rather deemed it a sign of friendly interest in our concerns; though it + was certainly 'running' much farther than the Indian had been directed to + proceed, and 'running' a little off the track. One might overlook such an + irregularity in a savage, however, more especially as I began to weary of + the monotony of our present manner of living, and was not sorry to + discover a plausible apology for a change. + </p> + <p> + The reader may be certain, it was not long before I had communicated the + intelligence brought by the Trackless, to my companions; who received it + as young men would be; apt to listen to tidings so stirring. The Onondago + was summoned to our council, and he renewed his protestation that it was + time for us to be moving. + </p> + <p> + “No stop”—he answered, when questioned again on the subject; “time + go. Canoe ready—gun loaded—warrior counted—chief woke up—council + fire gone out. Time, go.” + </p> + <p> + “Well then, Corny,” said Guert, rising and stretching his fine frame like + a lion roused from his lair, “here's off. We can go to Ravensnest to + sleep, to-day; and, to-morrow we will work our way out into the highway, + and fall into the line of march of the army. I shall have another + opportunity of seeing Mary Wallace, and of telling her how much I love + her. That will be so much gained, at all events.” + </p> + <p> + “No see squaw—no go to Nest!” said the Indian, with energy. + “War-path <i>this</i> way,” pointing in a direction that might have varied + a quarter of a circle from that to Herman Mordaunt's settlement. “Bad for + warrior to see squaw when he dig up hatchet—only make woman of him. + No; go this way—path there—no here—scalp there—squaw + here.” + </p> + <p> + As the gestures of the Onondago were quite as significant as his language, + we had no difficulty in understanding him. Guert continued his questions, + however, while dressing, and we all soon became convinced, by the words of + the Indian, broken and abrupt as they were, that Abercrombie was on the + point of embarking with his army on Lake George, and that we must needs be + active, if we intended to be present at the contemplated operations in + front of Ticonderoga. + </p> + <p> + Our decision was soon reached, and our preparations made. By packing and + shouldering his knapsack, and arming himself, each man would be ready; + though a short delay grew out of the absence of Traverse and his + chain-bearers. We wrote a letter, however, explaining the reason of our + intended absence, promising to return as soon as the operations in front + of Ty should be terminated. This letter we left with Pete, who was to + remain as cook, though Jaap bestirred himself, loaded his broad shoulders + with certain indispensables for our march, took his rifle, pack and horn + and was ready to move as soon as any of us. All this the fellow did, + moreover, without orders; deeming it a part of his duty to follow his + young master, even if he followed him to evil. No dog, indeed, could be + truer, in this particular, than Jaap or Jacob Satanstoe, for he had + adopted the name of the Neck as his patronymic; much as the nobles of + other regions style themselves after <i>their</i> lands. + </p> + <p> + When all was ready, and we were on the point of quitting the hut, the + question arose seriously, whether we were to go by Ravensnest, or by the + new route that the Onondago had mentioned. Path there was not, in either + direction; but, we had land-marks, springs, and other known signs, on the + former; while of the latter we literally knew nothing. Then Anneke and + Mary Wallace, with their bright, blooming, sunny faces—bright and + happy whenever we appeared, most certainly, of late—were in the + former direction, and even Dirck cried out 'for Ravensnest.' But, on that + route the Onondago refused to stir one foot. He stood, resembling a + finger-post, pointing north-westerly with an immovable obstinacy, that + threatened to bring the order of our march into some confusion. + </p> + <p> + “We know nothing of that route, Trackless,” Guert observed, or rather + replied, for the Indian's manner was so expressive as to amount to a + remark, “and we would rather travel a road with which we are a little + acquainted. Besides, we wish to pay our parting compliments to the + ladies.” + </p> + <p> + “Squaw no good, now—war-path no go to squaw. Huron—French + warrior, here.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and they are there, too. We shall be on their heels soon enough, by + going to Ravensnest.” + </p> + <p> + “No soon 'nough—can't do him. Path long, time short. Pale-face + warrior in great hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “Pale-face warriors' friends are in a hurry, too—so you will do well + to follow us, as we do not intend to follow you. Come, gentlemen, we will + lead the Indian, as the Indian does not seem disposed to lead us. After a + mile or two he will think it more honourable to go in advance; and, for + that distance, I believe, I can show you the way.” + </p> + <p> + “That road good for young men who don't want see enemy!” said Susquesus, + with ironical point. + </p> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas! Indian, what do you mean?” cried Guert, turning short on + his heels and moving swiftly towards the Onondago, who did not wait for + the menacing blow, but wheeled in his tracks and led off, at a quick pace, + directly towards the north-west. + </p> + <p> + I do believe that Guert pursued, for the first minute, with no other + intention than that of laying his powerful arm on the offender's shoulder; + but I dropped in on his footsteps so soon, Dirck following me, and Jaap + Dirck, that we were all moving off Indian file, or in the fashion of the + woods, at the rate of four miles in the hour, almost before we knew it. An + impulse of that angry nature is not over in a minute, and, before either + of us had sufficiently cooled to be entirely reasonable, the whole party + was fairly out of sight of the hut. After that no one appeared to think of + the necessity or of the expediency of reverting to the original intention. + It was certainly indiscreet, thus to confide absolutely in the good faith + of a savage, or a semi-savage, at least, whom we scarcely knew, and whom + we had actually distrusted; but we did it, and precisely in the manner and + under the feelings I have described. I know that we all thought of the + indiscretion of which we had been guilty, after the first mile; but each + was too proud to make the other acquainted with his misgivings. I say all, + but Jaap ought to be excepted, for nothing in the shape of danger ever + gave that negro any concern, unless it was spooks. He <i>was</i> afraid of + 'spooks,' but he did not fear man. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus manifested the same confidence in his knowledge of the woods, + while now leading the way, league after league through the dark forest, as + he had done when he took us to the oak with the broken top. On this + occasion, he guided us more by the sun, and the course generally, than by + any acquaintance with objects that we passed; though, three times that day + did he point out to us particular things that he had before seen, while + traversing the woods in directions that crossed, at angles more or less + oblique, the line of our present route. As for us, it was like a sailor's + pointing to a path on the trackless ocean. We had our pocket-compasses, it + is true, and understood well enough that a north-west course would bring + us out somewhere near the foot of Lake George; but I much doubt if we + could have made, by any means, as direct a line, by their aid, as we did + by that of the Indian. + </p> + <p> + On this subject we had a discussion among ourselves, I well remember, when + we halted to eat and rest, a little after the turn of the day. For five + hours had we walked with great rapidity, much as the bird flies, so far as + course was concerned, never turning aside, unless it might be to avoid + some impassable obstacle; and our calculation was that we had made quite + twenty, of the forty miles we had to go over, according to the Onondago's + account of the probable length of our journey. We had strung our sinews + and hardened our muscles in such a way as to place us above the influence + of common fatigue; yet, it must be confessed, the Indian was much the + freshest of the five, when we reached the spring where we dined. + </p> + <p> + “An Indian does seem to have a nose much like that of a hound,” said + Guert, as our appetites began to be appeased; “<i>that</i> must be + admitted. Yet I think, Corny, a compass would carry a man through the + woods with more certainty than any signs on the bark of trees, or looks at + the sun.” + </p> + <p> + “A compass cannot err, of course; but it would be a troublesome thing to + be stopping every minute or two, to look at your compass, which must have + time to become steady, you will remember, or it would become a guide that + is worse than none.” + </p> + <p> + “Every minute or two! Say once in an hour, or once in half an hour, at + most. I would engage to travel as straight as the best Indian of them all, + by looking at my compass once in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus was seated near enough to us three to over hear our + conversation, and he understood English perfectly, though he spoke it in + the usual, clipped manner of an Indian. I thought I could detect a covert + gleam of contempt in his dark countenance, at this boast of Guert's; but + he made no remark. We finished our meal, rested our legs; and, when our + watches told us it was one o'clock, we rose in a body to resume our march. + We were renewing the priming of our rifles, a precaution each man took + twice every day, to prevent the effects of the damps of the woods, when + the Onondago quietly fell in behind Guert, patiently waiting the leisure + of the latter. + </p> + <p> + “We are all ready, Trackless,” cried the Albanian “give us the lead and + the step, as before.” + </p> + <p> + “No”—answered the Indian. “Compass lead, now Susquesus no see any + longer,—blind as young dog.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that is your game, is it! Well, let it be so. Now, Corny, you shall + learn the virtue there is in a compass.” + </p> + <p> + Hereupon Guert drew his compass from a pocket in his hunting-shirt, placed + it on a log, in order to get a perfectly accurate start, and waited until + the quivering needle had become perfectly stationary. Then he made his + observation, and took a large hemlock, which stood at the distance of some + twenty rods, a great distance for a sight in the forest, as his land-mark, + gave a shout, caught up his compass, and led off. We followed, of course, + and soon reached the tree. As Guert now fancied he was well entered on the + right course, he disdained to turn to renew his observation, but called + out for us to 'come on;' as he had a new tree for his guide, and that in + the true direction. We may have proceeded in this manner for half a mile, + and I began to think that Guert was about to triumph—for, to me, it + did really seem that our course was as straight as it had been at any time + that day. Guert now began to brag of his success, talking <i>to</i> me, + and <i>at</i> the Indian, who was between us over his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “You see, Corny,” he said, “I am used to the bush, after all, and have + often been up among the Mohawks, and on their hunts. The great point is to + begin right; after which you can have no great trouble. Make certain of + the first ten rods, and you can be at ease about the ten thousand that are + to follow. So it is with life, Corny, boy; begin right, and a young man is + pretty certain of coming out right. I made a mistake at the start, and you + see the trouble it has given me. But, I was left an orphan, Littlepage, at + ten years of age; and the boy that has neither father nor money, must be + an uncommon boy not to kick himself out of the traces before he is twenty. + Well, Onondago, what do you say to following the compass, now!” + </p> + <p> + “Best look at him—he tell,” answered Susquesus, our whole line + halting to let Guert comply. + </p> + <p> + “This d——d compass will never come round!” exclaimed Guert, + shaking the little instrument in order to help the needle round to the + point at which he wished to see it stand. “These little devils are very + apt to get out of order, Corny after all.” + </p> + <p> + “Try more—got three”—said the Indian, holding up the number of + fingers he mentioned, as was his wont, when mentioning numbers of any + sort. + </p> + <p> + On this hint Dirck and I drew out our compasses, and the three were placed + on a log, at the side of which we had come to our halt. The result showed + that the three 'little devils' agreed most accurately, and that we were + marching exactly south-east, instead of north-west! Guert looked, on that + occasion, very much as he did when he rose from the snow, after the + hand-sled had upset with us. There was no resisting the truth; we had got + turned completely round, without knowing it. The fact that the sun was so + near the zenith, probably contributed to our mistake; but, any one who has + tried the experiment, will soon ascertain how easy it is for him to lose + his direction, beneath the obscurity and amid the inequalities of a virgin + forest. Guert gave it up, like a man as he was, and the Indian again + passed in front, without the slightest manifestation of triumph or + discontent. It required nothing less than a thunderbolt to disturb the + composure of that Onondago! + </p> + <p> + From that moment our progress was as swift as it had been previously to + the halt; while our course was seemingly as unerring as the flight of the + pigeon. Susquesus did not steer exactly north-west, as before, however, + but he inclined more northerly. At length, it was just as the sun + approached the summits of the western mountains, an opening appeared in + our front, beneath the arches of the woods, and we knew that a lake was + near us, and that we were on the summit of high land, though at what + precise elevation could not yet be told. Our route had lain across hills, + and through valleys, and along small streams; though, as I afterwards + ascertained, the Hudson did not run far enough north to intercept our + march; or rather, by a sudden turn to the west, it left our course clear. + Had we inclined westwardly ourselves, we might have almost done that which + Col. Follock had once laughingly recommended to my mother, in order to + avoid the dangers of the Powles Hook Ferry, gone round the river. + </p> + <p> + A clearing now showed itself a little on our right; and thither the Indian + held his way. This clearing was not the result of the labours of man, but + was the fruit of one of those forest accidents that sometimes let in the + light of the sun upon the mysteries of the woods. This clearing was on the + bald cap of a rocky mountain, where Indians had doubtless often encamped; + the vestiges of their fires proving that the winds had been assisted by + the sister element, in clearing away the few stunted trees that had once + grown in the fissures of the rocks. As it was, there might have been an + open space of some two or three acres, that was now as naked as if it had + never known any vegetation more ambitious than the bush of the + whortleberry or the honeysuckle. Delicious water was spouting from a + higher ridge of the rocks, that led away northerly, forming the summit of + an extensive range in that direction. At this spring Susquesus stooped to + drink; then he announced that our day's work was done. + </p> + <p> + Until this announcement, I do not believe that one of us all had taken the + time to look about him, so earnest and rapid had been our march. Now, + however, each man threw aside his pack, laid down his rifle, and, thus + disencumbered, we turned to gaze on one of the most surprisingly beautiful + scenes eye of mine had ever beheld. + </p> + <p> + From what I have read and heard, I am now fully aware, that the grandest + of our American scenery falls far behind that which is to be found among + the lakes and precipices of the Alps, and along the almost miraculous + coast of the Mediterranean; and I shall not pretend that the view I now + beheld approached many, in magnificence, that are to be met with in those + magic regions. Nevertheless, it was both grand and soft; and it had one + element of vastness, in the green mantle of its interminable woods, that + is not often to be met with in countries that have long submitted to the + sway of man. Such as it was, I shall endeavour to describe it. + </p> + <p> + Beneath us, at the distance of near a thousand feet, lay a lake of the + most limpid and placid water, that was beautifully diversified in shape, + by means of bluffs, bays, and curvatures of the shores, and which had an + extent of near forty miles, We were on its eastern margin, and about + one-third of the distance from its southern to its northern end. Countless + islands lay almost under our feet, rendering the mixture of land and + water, at that particular point, as various and fanciful as the human + imagination could desire. To the north, the placid sheet extended a great + distance, bounded by rocky precipices, passing by a narrow gorge into a + wider and larger estuary beyond. To the south, the water lay expanded to + its oval termination, with here and there an island to relieve the + surface. In that direction only, were any of the results of human industry + to be traced. Everywhere else, the gorges, the receding valleys, the long + ranges of hills, and the bald caps of granite, presented nothing to the + eye but the unwearying charms of nature. Far as the eye could reach, + mountain behind mountain, the earth was covered with its green mantle of + luxuriant leaves; such as vegetation bestows on a virgin soil beneath a + beneficent sun. The rolling and variegated carpet of the earth resembled a + firmament reversed, with clouds composed of foliage. + </p> + <p> + At the southern termination of the lake, however, there was an opening in + the forest of considerable extent; and one that had been so thoroughly + made as to leave few or no trees. From this point we were distant several + miles, and that distance necessarily rendered objects indistinct; though + we had little difficulty in perceiving the ruins of extensive + fortifications. A thousand white specks, we now ascertained to be tents, + for the works were all that remained of Fort William Henry, and there lay + encamped the army of Abercrombie; much the largest force that had then + ever collected in America, under the colours of England. History has since + informed us that this army contained the formidable number of sixteen + thousand men. Hundreds of boats, large batteaux, that were capable of + carrying forty or fifty men, were moving about in front of the encampment, + and, remote as we were, it was not impossible to discover the signs of + preparation, and of an early movement. The Indian had not deceived us thus + far, at least, but had shown himself an intelligent judge of what was + going on, as well as a faithful guide. + </p> + <p> + We were to pass the night on the mountain. Our beds were none of the best, + as the reader may suppose, and our cover slight; yet I do not remember to + have opened my eyes from the moment they were closed, until I awoke in the + morning. The fatigue of a forced march did that for us which down cannot + obtain for the voluptuary, and we all slept as profoundly as children. + Consciousness returned to me, by means of a gentle shake of the shoulder, + which proceeded from Susquesus. On arising, I found the Indian still near + me, his countenance, for the first time since I had known him, expressing + something like an animated pleasure. He had awoke none of the others, and + he signed for me to follow him, without arousing either of my companions. + Why I had been thus particularly selected for the scene that succeeded, I + cannot say, unless the Onondago's native sagacity had taught him to + distinguish between the educations and feelings of us three young men. So + it was, however, and I left the rude shelter we had prepared for the + night, alone. + </p> + <p> + A glorious sight awaited me! The sun had just tipped the mountain-tops + with gold, while the lake and the valleys, the hill-sides even, and the + entire world beneath, still reposed in shadow. It appeared to me like the + awakening of created things from the sleep of nature. For a moment or + more, I could only gaze on the wonderful picture presented by the strong + contrast between the golden hill-tops and their shadowed sides—the + promises of day and the vestiges of night. But the Onondago was too much + engrossed with his own feelings, to suffer me long to disregard what he + conceived to be the principal point of interest. Directed by his finger, + and eye, for he spoke not, I turned my look towards the distant shore of + William Henry, and at once perceived the cause of his unusual excitement. + As soon as the Indian was certain that I saw the objects that attracted + himself so strongly, he exclaimed with a strong, guttural, emphatic + cadence— + </p> + <p> + “Good!” + </p> + <p> + Abercrombie's army was actually in motion! Sixteen thousand men had + embarked in boats, and were moving towards the northern end of the lake, + with imposing force, and a most beautiful accuracy. The unruffled surface + of the lake was dotted with the flotilla, boats in hundreds stretching + across it in long, dark lines, moving on towards their point of + destination with the method and concert of an army with its wings + displayed. The last brigade of boats had just left the shore when I first + saw this striking spectacle, and the whole picture lay spread before me at + a single glance. America had never before witnessed such a sight; and it + may be long before she will again witness such another. For several + minutes I stood entranced; nor did I speak until the rays of the sun had + penetrated the dusky light that lay on the inferior world, as low as the + bases of the western mountains. + </p> + <p> + “What are we to do, Susquesus?” I then asked, feeling how much right the + Indian now might justly claim to govern our movements. + </p> + <p> + “Eat breakfast, first”—the Onondago quietly replied; “then go down + mountain.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither of which will place us in the midst of that gallant army, as it + is our wish to be.” + </p> + <p> + “See, bye'm by. Injin know—no hurry, now. Hurry come, when Frenchman + shoot.” + </p> + <p> + I did not like this speech, nor the manner in which it was uttered; but + there were too many things to think of, just then, to be long occupied by + vague conjectures touching the Onondago's evasive allusions. Guert and + Dirck were called, and made to share in the pleasure that such a sight + could not fail to communicate. Then it was I got the first notion of what + I should call the truly martial character of Ten Eyck. His fine, manly + figure appeared to me to enlarge, his countenance actually became + illuminated, and the expression of his eye, usually so full of good-nature + and fun, seemed to change its character entirely, to one of sternness and + seventy. + </p> + <p> + “This is a noble sight, Mr. Littlepage,” Guert remarked, after gazing at + the measured but quick movement of the flotilla, for some time, in silence—“a + truly noble sight, and it is a reproach to us three for having lost so + much time in the woods, when we ought to have been <i>there</i>, ready to + aid in driving the French from the province.” + </p> + <p> + “We are not too late, my good friend, as the first blow yet remains to be + struck.” + </p> + <p> + “You say true, and I shall join that army, if I have to swim to reach the + boats. It will be no difficult thing for us to swim from one of these + islands to another, and the troops must pass through the midst of them, 'n + order to get into the lower lake. Any reasonable man would stop to pick us + up.” + </p> + <p> + “No need,” said the Onondago, in his quiet way. “Eat breakfast; then go. + Got canoe—that 'nough.” + </p> + <p> + “A canoe! By St. Nicholas! Mr. Susquesus, I'll tell you what it is—you + shall never want a friend as long as Guert Ten Eyek is living, and able to + assist you. That idea of the canoe is a most thoughtful one, and shows + that a reasoning man has had the care of us. We can now join the troops, + with the rifles in our hand, as becomes gentlemen and volunteers.” + </p> + <p> + By this time Jaap was up, and looking at the scene, with all his eyes. It + is scarcely necessary to describe the effect on a negro. He laughed in + fits, shook his head like the Chinese figure of a mandarin, rolled over on + the rocks, arose, shook himself like a dog that quits the water, laughed + again, and finally shouted. As we were all accustomed to these displays of + negro sensibility, they only excited a smile among us, and not even that + from Dirck. As for the Indian, he took no more notice of these natural, + but undignified signs of pleasure, in Jaap, than if the latter had been a + dog, or any other unintellectual animal. Perhaps no weakness would be so + likely to excite his contempt, as to be a witness of so complete an + absence of self-command, as the untutored negro manifested on this + occasion. + </p> + <p> + As soon as our first curiosity and interest were a little abated, we + applied ourselves to the necessary duty of breaking our fasts. The meal + was soon despatched; and, to say the truth, it was not of a quality to + detain one long from anything of interest. The moment we had finished, the + whole party left the cap of the mountain, following our guide as usual. + </p> + <p> + The Onondago had purposely brought us to that look-out, a spot known to + him, in order that we might get the view of its panorama. It was + impossible to descend to the lake-shore at that spot, however, and we were + obliged to make a detour of three or four miles, in order to reach a + ravine, by means of which, and not without difficulty either, that + important object was obtained. Here we found a bark canoe of a size + sufficient to hold all five of us, and we embarked without a moment's + delay. + </p> + <p> + The wind had sprung up from the south, as the day advanced, and the + flotilla of boats was coming on, at a greatly increased rate, as to speed. + By the time we had threaded our way through the islands, and reached the + main channel, if indeed any one passage could be so termed, among such a + variety, the leading boat of the army was within hail. The Indian paddled, + and, waving his hand in sign of amity, he soon brought us alongside of the + batteau. As we approached it, however, I observed the fine, large form of + the Viscount Howe, standing erect in its bows, dressed in his Light + Infantry Forest Uniform, as if eager to be literally the foremost man of a + movement, in the success of which, the honour of the British empire, + itself, was felt to be concerned. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-35" id="linknote-35"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 35 (<a href="#linknoteref-35">return</a>)<br /> [ It has been found that a + three lives' lease, in the State of New York, is equal to a term of more + than thirty years.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My sons? It may + Unman my heart, and the poor boys will weep; + And what can I reply, to comfort them, + Save with some hollow hopes, and ill-worn smiles?” + + <i>Sardanapalus</i>. +</pre> + <p> + My Lord Howe did not at first recognise us, in our hunting-shirts. With + Guert Ten Eyck, however, he had formed such an acquaintance, while at + Albany, as caused him to remember his voice, and our welcome was both + frank and cordial. We inquired for the ——th, declaring our + intention to join that corps, from the commander of which all three of us + had reiterated and pressing invitations to join his mess. The intention of + seeking our friend immediately, nevertheless, was changed by a remark of + our present host if one may use such a term as applied to the commander of + a brigade of boats. + </p> + <p> + “Bulstrode's regiment is in the centre, and will be early in the field,” + he said; “but not as early as the advanced guard. If you desire good + living, gentlemen, I am far from wishing to dissuade you from seeking the + flesh-pots of the ——th; there being a certain Mr. Billings, in + that corps, who has an extraordinary faculty, they tell me, in getting up + a good dinner out of nothing; but, if you want service, we shall certainly + be the first brigade in action; and, to such fare as I can command, you + will be most acceptable guests. As for anything else, time must show.” + </p> + <p> + After this, no more was said about looking for Bulstrode; though we let + our noble commander understand, that we should tax his hospitality no + longer than to see him fairly in the field, after driving away the party + that it was expected the enemy would send to oppose our landing. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus no sooner learned our decision, than he took his departure, + quietly paddling away towards the eastern shore; no one attempting to + intercept a canoe that was seen to quit the batteau that was known to + carry the commander of the advanced brigade. + </p> + <p> + The wind freshened, as the day advanced, and most of the boats having + something or other in the shape of a sail, our progress now became quite + rapid. By nine o'clock we were fairly in the Lower Lake, and there was + every prospect of our reaching our point of destination by mid-day. I + confess, the business we were on, the novelty of my situation, and the + certainty that we should meet in Montcalm an experienced as well as a most + gallant foe, conspired to render me thoughtful, though I trust not timid, + during the few hours we were in the batteau. Perfectly inactive, it is not + surprising that so young a soldier should feel sobered by the solemn + reflections that are apt to get possession of the mind, at the probable + approach of death—if not to myself, at least to many of those who + were around me. Nor was there anything boastful or inflated in the manner + or conversation of our distinguished leader, who had seen much warm + service in Germany, in the wars of his reputed grandfather and uncle, + young as he was. On the contrary, My Lord Howe, that day, was grave and + thoughtful, as became a man who held the lives of others in his keeping, + though he was neither depressed nor doubting. There were moments, indeed, + when he spoke cheerfully to those who were near him; though, as a whole, + his deportment was, as I have just said, grave and thoughtful. Once I + caught his eye fastened on me, with a saddened expression; and, I suppose + that a question he soon after put me, was connected with the subject of + his thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “How would our excellent and respectable friend, Madam Schuyler, feel, did + she know our precise position at this moment, Mr. Littlepage? I do believe + that excellent woman feels more concern for those in whom she takes an + interest, than they often feel for themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, my lord, that, in such a case, we should certainly receive the + benefit of her prayers.” + </p> + <p> + “You are an only child, I think she told me, Littlepage?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, my lord; and thankful am I that my mother cannot foresee this + scene.” + </p> + <p> + “I, too, have those that love me, though they are accustomed to think of + me as a soldier, and liable to a soldier's risks. Happy is the military + man who can possess his mind, in the moment of trial, free from the + embarrassing, though pleasing, and otherwise so grateful ties of + affection. But, we are nearing the shore, and must attend to duty.” + </p> + <p> + This is the last conversation I held with that brave soldier; and these + were the last words, of a private nature, I ever heard him utter. From + that moment, his whole soul seemed occupied with the discharge of his + duty, the success of our arms, and the defeat of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + I am not soldier enough to describe what followed in a very military or + intelligible manner. As the brigade drew near the foot of the lake, where + there was a wide extent of low land, principally in forest, however, some + batteaux were brought to the front, on which were mounted a number of + pieces of heavy artillery. The French had a party of considerable force to + oppose our landing; but, as it appeared they had not made a sufficient + provision of guns, on their part, to contend with success; and our grape + scouring the woods, we met with but little real resistance. Nor did we + assail them precisely at the point where we were expected but proceeded + rather to the right of their position. At the signal, the advanced brigade + pushed for the shore, led by our gallant commander, and we were all soon + on <i>terra firma</i>, without sustaining any loss worth naming. We four, + that is, Guert, Dirck, myself and Jaap, kept as near as was proper to the + noble brigadier, who instantly ordered an advance, to press the retreating + foe. The skirmishing was not sharp, however, and we gained ground fast, + the enemy retiring in the direction of Ticonderoga, and we pressing on + their rear, quite as fast as prudence and our preparations would allow. I + could see that a cloud of Indians was in our front, and will own, that I + felt afraid of an ambush; for the artful warfare practised by those beings + of the wood, could not but be familiar, by tradition at least, to one born + and educated in the colonies. We had landed in a cove, not literally at + the foot of the lake, but rather on its western side; and room was no + sooner obtained, than Gen. Abercrombie got most of his force on shore, and + formed it, as speedily as possible, in columns. Of these columns we had + four, the two in the centre being composed entirely of King's troops, six + regiments in all, numbering more than as many thousand men; while five + thousand provincials were on the flanks, leaving quite four thousand of + the latter with the boats, of which this vast flotilla actually contained + the large number of one thousand and twenty five! All our boats, however, + had not yet reached the point of debarkation; those with the stores, + artillery, &c., &c., being still some distance in the rear. + </p> + <p> + Our party was now placed with the right centre column, at the head of + which marched our noble acquaintance. The enemy had posted a single + battalion in a log encampment, near the ordinary landing; but finding the + character of the force with which he was about to be assailed, its + commandant set fire to his huts and retreated. The skirmishing was now + even of less moment than it had been on landing, and we all moved forward + in high spirits, though the want of guides, the density of the woods, and + the difficulties of the ground, soon produced a certain degree of + confusion in our march. The columns got entangled with each other, and no + one seemed to possess the means of promptly extricating them from this + awkward embarrassment. Want of guides was the great evil under which we + laboured; but it was an evil that it was now too late to remedy. + </p> + <p> + Our column, notwithstanding, or its head rather, continued to advance, + with its gallant leader keeping even pace with its foremost platoon. We + four volunteers acted as look-outs, a little on its flank; and I trust + there will be no boasting, if I say, we kept rather in advance of the + leading files, than otherwise. In this state of things, French uniforms + were seen in front, and a pretty strong party of the enemy was + encountered, wandering, like ourselves, a little uncertain of the route + they ought to take, in order to reach their entrenchments in the shortest + time. As a matter of course, this party could not pass the head of our + column, without bringing on a collision, though it were one that was only + momentary. Which party gave the first fire, I cannot say, though I thought + it was the French. The discharge was not heavy, however, and was almost + immediately mutual. I know that all four of us let off our rifles, and + that we halted, under a cover, to reload. I had just driven the ball down, + when my eye caught the signs of some confusion in the head of the column, + and I saw the body of an officer borne to the rear. It was that of Lord + Howe! He had fallen at the first serious discharge made by the enemy in + that campaign! The fall of its leader, so immediately in its presence, + seemed to rouse the column into a sense of the necessity of doing + something effective, and it assaulted the party in its front with the rage + of so many tigers, dispersing the enemy like chaff; making a considerable + number of prisoners, besides killing and wounding not a few. + </p> + <p> + I never saw a man more thoroughly aroused than was Guert Ten Eyck, in this + little affair. He had been much noticed by Lord Howe, during the residence + of that unfortunate nobleman at Albany; and the loss of the last appeared + to awaken all that there was of the ferocious in the nature of my usually + kind-hearted Albany friend. He acted as our immediate commander; and he + led us forward on the heels of the retreating French, until we actually + came in sight of their entrenchments. Then, indeed, we all saw it was + necessary to retreat in our turn; and Guert consented to fall back, though + it was done surlily, and like a lion at bay. A party of Indians pressed us + hard, in this retreat, and we ran an imminent risk of our scalps; all of + which, I have ever believed, would have been lost, were it not for the + resolution and Herculean strength of Jaap. It happened, as we were dodging + from tree to tree, that all four of our rifles were discharged at the same + time; a circumstance of which our assailants availed themselves to make a + rush at us. Luckily the weight of the onset fell on Jaap, who clubbed his + rifle, and literally knocked down in succession the three Indians that + first reached him. This intrepidity and success gave us time to reload; + and Dirck, ever a cool and capital shot, laid the fourth Huron on his + face, with a ball through his heart. Guert then held his fire, and called + on Jaap to retreat. Fie was obeyed; and under cover of our two rifles, the + whole party got off; the red-skins being too thoroughly rebuked to press + us very closely, after the specimen they had just received of the stuff of + which we were made. + </p> + <p> + We owed our escape, however, as much to another circumstance, as to this + resolution of Jaap, and the expedient of Guert. Among the provincials was + a partisan of great repute, of the name of Rogers. This officer led a + party of riflemen on our left flank, and he drove in the enemy's + skirmishers, along his own front, with rapidity, causing them to suffer a + considerable loss. By this means, the Indians before us were held in + check; as there was the danger that Major Rogers's party might fall in + upon their rear, should they attempt to pursue us, and thus cut them off + from their allies. It was well it was so; inasmuch as we had to fall back + more than a mile, ere we reached the spot where Abercrombie brought his + columns to a halt, and encamped far the night. This position was distant + about two miles from the works before Ticonderoga; and consequently at no + great distance from the outlet of Lake George. Here the army was brought + into good order, and took up its station for some little time. + </p> + <p> + It was necessary to await the arrival of the stores, ammunition and + artillery. As the bringing up these materials, through a country that was + little else than a virgin forest, was no easy task, it occupied us quite + two days. Melancholy days they were, too; the death of Lord Howe acting on + the whole army much as if it had been a defeat. He was the idol of the + King's troops, and he had rendered himself as popular with us Americans, + as with his own countrymen. A sort of ominous sadness prevailed among us + each common man appearing to feel his loss as he might have felt that of a + brother. + </p> + <p> + We looked up the ——th, and joined Bulstrode, as soon as we + reached the ground chosen for the new encampment. Our reception was + friendly, and even kind; and it became warmer still, as soon as it was + understood that we composed the little party that had skirmished so freely + on the flank of the right centre column, and which was known to have gone + farther in advance than any one else, in that part of the field. Thus we + joined our corps with some <i>éclat</i>, at the very outset, everybody + welcoming us cordially, and with seeming sincerity. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, the general sadness existed in the ——th, as well + as in all the other corps. Lord Howe was as much beloved in that regiment, + as in any other; and our meeting and subsequent intercourse could not be + called joyful. Bulstrode had an extensive and important command, for his + rank and years, and he certainly was proud of his position; but I could + see that even his elastic and usually gay temperament was much affected by + what had occurred. That night we walked together, apart from our + companions, when he spoke on the subject of our loss. + </p> + <p> + “It may appear strange to you, Corny,” he said, “to find so much + depression in camp, after a debarkation that has certainly been + successful, and a little affair that has given us, as they assure me, a + couple of hundred prisoners. I tell you, however, my friend, it were + better for this army to have seen its best corps annihilated, than to have + lost the man it has. Howe was literally the soul of this entire force. He + was a soldier by nature, and made all around him soldiers. As for the + Commander-In-Chief, he does not understand you Americans, and will not use + you as he ought; then he does not understand the nature of the warfare of + this continent, and will be very likely to make a blunder. I'll tell you + how it is, Corny; Howe had as much influence with Abercrombie, as he had + with every one else; and an attempt will be made to introduce his mode of + fighting; but such a man as Lord Howe requires another Lord Howe to carry + out his own conceptions. That is the point on which, I fear, we shall + fail.” + </p> + <p> + All this sounded very sensible to me, though it sounded discouragingly; I + found, however, that Bulstrode did not entertain these feelings alone, but + that most around me were of the same way of thinking. In the mean time, + the preparations proceeded; and it was understood that the 8th was to be + the day that was to decide the fate of Ticonderoga; The fort proper, at + this celebrated station, stands on a peninsula, and can only be assailed + on one side. The outworks were very extensive on that side, and the + garrison was known to be formidable. As these outworks, however, consisted + principally of a log breastwork, and it could be approached through open + woods, which of itself afforded some cover, it was determined to carry it + by storm, and, if possible, enter the main work with the retreating enemy. + Had we waited for our artillery, and established batteries, our success + would have been certain; but the engineer reported favourably of the other + project; and perhaps it better suited the temper and impatience of the + whole army, to push on, rather than proceed by the slow movements of a + regular siege. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of the 8th, therefore, the troops were paraded for the + assault, our party falling in on the flank of the ——th, as + volunteers. The ground did not admit of the use of many horses, and + Bulstrode marched with us on foot; I can relate but little of the general + movements of that memorable day, the woods concealing so much of what was + done, on both sides. I know this, however; that the flower of our army + were brought into the line, and were foremost in the assault; including + both regulars and provincials. The 42d, a Highland corps, that had + awakened much interest in America, both by the appearance and character of + its men, was placed at a point where it was thought the heaviest service + was to be performed. The 55th, another corps on which much reliance was + placed, was also put at the head of another column. A swamp extending for + some distance along the only exposed front of the peninsula, these two + corps were designated to carry the log breastwork, that commenced at the + point where the swamp ceases; much the most arduous portion of the + expected service, since this was the only accessible approach to the + fortress itself. To render their position more secure, the French had + placed several pieces of artillery in battery, along the line of this + breastwork; while we had not yet a gun in front to cover our advance. + </p> + <p> + It was said, that Abercrombie did not take counsel of any of the American + officers with him, before he decided on the attack of the 8th of July. He + had directed his principal engineer to reconnoitre; and that gentleman + having reported that the defences offered no serious scientific obstacles, + the assault was decided on. This report was accurate, doubtless, agreeably + to the principles and facts of European warfare; but it was not suited to + those of the conflicts of this continent. It was to be regretted, however, + that the experience of 1755, and the fate of Braddock, had not inculcated + a more extensive lesson of discretion among the royal commanders, than was + manifested by the incidents of this day. + </p> + <p> + The ——th was placed in column directly in the rear of the + Highlanders, who were led, on this occasion, by Col. Gordon Graham; a + veteran officer of great experience, and of an undaunted courage. <a + href="#linknote-36" name="linknoteref-36" id="linknoteref-36"><small>36</small></a> + Of course, I saw this officer and this regiment, being as they were + directly in my front, but I saw little else; more especially after the + smoke of the first discharge was added to the other obstacles to vision. + </p> + <p> + A considerable time was consumed in making the preparations; but, when + everything was supposed to be ready, the columns were set in motion. It + was generally understood that the troops were to receive the enemy's fire, + then rush forward to the breastwork, cross the latter at the bayonet's + point, if it should be necessary, and deliver their own fire at close + quarters; or on their retreating foes. Permission was given to us + volunteers, and to divers light parties of irregulars, to open on any of + the French of whom we might get glimpses, as little was expected from us + in the charge. + </p> + <p> + Nearly an hour was consumed in approaching the point of attack, owing to + the difficulties of the ground, and the necessity of making frequent + halts, in order to dress. At length the important moment arrived when the + head of the column was ready to unmask itself, and consequently to come + under fire. A short halt sufficed for the arrangements here, when the + bagpipes commenced their exciting music, and we broke out of cover, + shouting and cheering each other on. We must have been within two hundred + yards of the breastwork at the time, and the first gun discharged was + Jaap's, who, by working his way into the cover of the swamp, had got some + distance ahead of us, and who actually shot down a French officer who had + got upon the logs of his defences, in order to reconnoitre. That assault, + however, was fearfully avenged! The Highlanders were moving on like a + whirlwind, grave, silent and steady, cheered only by their music, when a + sheet of flame glanced along the enemy's line, and the iron and leaden + messengers of death came whistling in among us like a hurricane. The + Scotsmen were staggered by that shock; but they recovered instantly and + pressed forward. The ——th did not escape harmless, by any + means; while the din told us that the conflict extended along the whole of + the breastwork, towards the lake-shore. How many were shot down in our + column, by that first discharge, I never knew; but the slaughter was + dreadful, and among those who fell was the veteran Graham, himself. I can + safely say, however, that the plan of attack was completely deranged from + this first onset; the columns displaying and commencing their fire as soon + as possible. No men could have behaved better than all that I could see; + the whole of us pushing on for the breastwork, until we encountered fallen + trees; which were made to serve the purpose of chevaux-de-frise. These + trees had been felled along the front of the breastwork, while their + branches were cut, and pointed like stakes. It was impossible to pass in + any order, and the troops halted when they reached them, and continued to + fire by platoons, with as much regularity as on parade. A few minutes of + this work, however, compelled different corps to fall back, and the vain + conflict was continued for four hours, on our part almost entirely by a + smart but ineffective fire of musketry; while the French sent their grape + into our ranks almost with as much impunity as if they had been on parade. + It had been far better for our men had they been less disciplined, and + less under the control of their officers; for the sole effect of + steadiness, under such circumstances, is to leave the gallant and devoted + troops, who refuse to fall back, while they are unable to advance, only so + much the longer in jeopardy. + </p> + <p> + Guert had shouted with the rest; and I soon found that by following him + for a leader, we should quickly be in the midst of the fray. He actually + led us up to the fallen trees, and, finding something like a cover there, + we three established ourselves among them as riflemen, doing fully out + share of service. When the troops fell back, however, we were left in a + manner alone, and it was rather dangerous work to retire; and finding + ourselves out of the line of fire from our own men, no immaterial point in + such a fray, we maintained our post to the last. Admonished, after a long + time, of the necessity of retreating, by the manner in which the fire of + our own line lessened, we got off with sound skins, though Guert retired + the whole distance with his face to the enemy, firing as he withdrew. We + all did the last, indeed, using the trees for covers. Towards the close we + attracted especial attention; and there were two or three minutes during + which the flight of bullets around us might truly, without much + exaggeration, be likened to a storm of hail! + </p> + <p> + Jaap was not with us in this sally, and I went into the swamp to look for + him. The search was not long, for I found my fellow retreating also, and + bringing in with him a stout Canadian Indian as a prisoner. He was making + his captive carry three discharged rifles, and blankets; one of which had + been his own property once, and the others that of two of his tribe, whom + the negro had left lying in the swamp as bloody trophies of his exploits. + I cannot explain the philosophy of the thing, but that negro ever appeared + to me to fight as if he enjoyed the occupation as an amusement. + </p> + <p> + These facts were scarcely ascertained, when we learned the important + intelligence that a general retreat was ordered. Our proud and powerful + army was beaten, and that, too, by a force two-thirds less than its own! + It is not easy to describe the miserable scene that followed. The + transporting of the wounded to the rear had been going on the whole time, + and, as usually happens, when it is permitted, it had contributed largely + to thin the ranks. These unfortunate men were put into the batteaux in + hundreds, while most of the dead were left where they lay. So completely + were our hopes frustrated, and our spirits lowered, that most of the boats + pulled off that night, and all the remainder quitted the foot of the lake + early next day. + </p> + <p> + Thus terminated the dire expedition of 1758 against Ticonderoga, and with + it our expectations of seeing Montreal, or Quebec, that season. I dare + say, we had fully ten thousand bayonets in the field that bloody day, and + quite five thousand men closely engaged. The mistake was in attempting to + carry a post that was so nearly impregnable, by assault; and this, too, + without the cover of artillery. The enemy was said to have four or five + thousand men present, and this may be true, as applied to all within the + defences; though I question if more than half that number pulled triggers + on us, in the miserable affair. There is always much of exaggeration in + both the boasting and the apologies of war. + </p> + <p> + Our own loss, on this sad occasion, was reported at 548 slain, and 1356 + wounded. This was probably within the truth; though the missing were said + to be surprisingly few, some thirty or forty, in all; the men having no + place to repair to but the boats. Of the Highlanders, it was said that + nearly half the common men, and twenty-five, or nearly <i>all</i> the + officers, were either killed or wounded! One account, indeed, said that <i>every</i> + officer of that corps, who was on the ground, suffered. The 55th, also, + was dreadfully cut up. Ten of its officers were slain outright, and many + were wounded. As for the ——th, it fared a little better, not + heading a column; but its loss was fearful. Bulstrode was seriously + wounded, early in the attack, though his hurt was never supposed to be + dangerous. Billings was left dead on the field, and Harris got a scratch + that served him to talk of in after life. + </p> + <p> + The confusion was tremendous after such a conflict and such a defeat. The + troops re-embarked without much regard to corps or regularity of movement; + and the boats moved away as fast as they received their melancholy + cargoes. An immense amount of property was lost; though I believe all the + customary military trophies were preserved. As the provincials had been + the least engaged, and had suffered much the least, in proportion to + numbers, a large body of them was kept as a rear-guard, while the regular + corps removed their wounded and <i>matériel</i>. + </p> + <p> + As for us three or four, including Jaap, who stuck by his prisoner, we + scarcely knew what to do with ourselves. Everybody who felt any interest + in us, was either killed or wounded. Bulstrode we could not see; nor could + we even find the regiment. Should we succeed in the attempt at the last, + very few now remained in it who would have taken much, or indeed any + concern in us. Under the circumstances, therefore, we held a consultation + on the lake-shore, uncertain whether to ask admission into one of the + departing boats, or to remain until morning, that our retreat might have a + more manly aspect. + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you what it is, Corny,” said Guert Ten Eyck, in a somewhat + positive manner, “the less <i>we</i> say about this campaign, and of our + share in it, the petter. We are not soldiers, in the regular way, and if + we keep quiet, nobody will know what a t'rashing we t'ree, in particular, + haf receivet. My advice is, t'at we get out of this army as we got into it—t'at + is, py a one-sided movement, and for ever after-holt our tongues about our + having had anyt'ing to do with it. I never knew a worsted man any the more + respected for his mishap; and I will own, that I set down flogging as a + very material part of a fight.” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure, Guert, I am as little disposed to brag of my share in + this affair, as you or any one can possibly be; but it is much easier to + talk about getting away from this confused crowd than really to do the + thing. I doubt if any of these boats will take us in; for an Englishman, + flogged, is not apt to be very good-natured; and all our friends seem to + be killed or wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “You want go?” asked a low Indian voice at my elbow. “Got 'nough, eh?” + </p> + <p> + Turning, I saw Susquesus standing within two feet of me. Our consultation + was necessarily in the midst of a moving throng; and the Onondago must + have approached us, unnoticed, at the commencement of our conference. + There he was, however, though whence he came or how he got there, I could + not imagine, at the time, and have never been able to learn since. + </p> + <p> + “Can you help us to get away, Susquesus?” was my answer. “Do you know of + any means of crossing the lake?” + </p> + <p> + “Got canoe. That good. Canoe go, though Yengeese run.” + </p> + <p> + “That in which we came off to the army, do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + The Indian nodded his head, and made a sign for us to follow. Little + persuasion was necessary, and we proceeded at his heels, in a body, in the + direction he led. I will confess, that when I saw our guide proceeding + eastward, along the lake-shore, I had some misgivings on the subject of + his good faith. That was the direction which took us towards, instead of + <i>from</i> the enemy; and there was something so mysterious in the + conduct of this man, that it gave me uneasiness. Here he was, in the midst + of the English army in the height of its confusion, though he had declined + joining it previously to the battle. Nothing was easier than to enter the + throng, in its present confused state, and move about undetected for + hours, if one had the nerve necessary for the service; and, in that + property, I felt certain the Onondago was not deficient. There was a + coolness in the manner of the man, a quiet observation, both blended with + the seeming apathy of a red-skin, that gave every assurance of his fitness + for the duty. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, there was no remedy but to follow, or to break with our + guide on the spot. We did not like to do the last, although we conferred + together on the subject, but followed, keeping our hands on the locks of + our rifles, in readiness for a brush, should we be led into danger. + Susquesus had no such treacherous intentions, however, while he had + disposed of his canoe in a place that denoted his judgment. We had to walk + quite a mile ere we reached the little bush-fringed creek in which he had + concealed it. I have always thought we ran a grave risk, in advancing so + far in that direction, since the enemy's Indians would certainly be + hanging around the skirts of our army, in quest of scalps; but I + afterwards learned the secret of the Onondago's confidence, who first + spoke on the subject after we had left the shore, and then only in an + answer to a remark of Guert's. + </p> + <p> + “No danger,” he said; “red-man gettin' Yengeese scalps, on the war-path. + Too much kill, now, to want more.” + </p> + <p> + As both governments pursued the culpable policy of paying for human + scalps, this suggestion probably contained the whole truth. + </p> + <p> + Previously to quitting the creek, however, there was a difficulty to + dispose of. Jaap had brought his Huron prisoner with him; and the Onondago + declared that the canoe could not carry six. This we knew from experience, + indeed, though five went in it very comfortably. + </p> + <p> + “No room,” said Susquesus, “for red-man. Five good—six bad.” + </p> + <p> + “What shall we do with the fellow, Corny?” asked Guert, with a little + interest. “Jaap says he is a proper devil, by daylight, and that he had a + world of trouble in taking him, and in bringing him in. For five minutes, + it was heads or tails which was to give in; and the nigger only got the + best of it, by his own account of the battle, because the red-skin had the + unaccountable folly to try to beat in Jaap's brains. He might as well have + battered the Rock of Gibraltar, you know, as to attempt to break a + nigger's skull, and so your fellow got the best of it. What shall we do + with the rascal?” + </p> + <p> + “Take scalp,” said the Onondago, sententiously; “got good scalp—war-lock + ready—paint, war-paint—capital scalp.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that may do better for you, Master Succetush”—so Guert always + called our guide, “than it will do for us Christians. I am afraid we shall + have to let the ravenous devil go, after disarming him.” + </p> + <p> + “Disarmed he is already; but he cannot be long without a musket, on this + battle-ground. I am of your opinion, Guert; so, Jaap, release your + prisoner at once, that we may return to Ravensnest, as fast as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Dat berry hard, Masser Corny, sah!” exclaimed Jaap, who did not half like + the orders he received. + </p> + <p> + “No words about it, sir, but cut his fastenings”—Jaap had tied the + Indian's arms behind him, with a rope, as an easy mode of leading him + along. “Do you know the man's name?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sah—he say he name be Muss”—probably Jaap's defective + manner of repeating some Indian sound; “and a proper muss he get in, + Masser Corny, when he try to cotch Jaap by he wool!” + </p> + <p> + Here I was obliged to clap my hand suddenly on the black's mouth, for the + fellow was so delighted with the recollection of the manner in which he + had got the better of his red adversary, that he broke out into one of the + uncontrollable fits of noisy laughter, that are so common to his race. I + repeated the order, somewhat sternly, for Jaap to cut the cords, and then + to follow us to the canoe, in which the Onondago and my two friends had + already taken their places. My own foot was raised to enter the canoe, + when I heard heavy stripes inflicted on the back of some one. Rushing back + to the spot where I had left Jaap and his captive, Muss, I found the + former inflicting a severe punishment, on the naked back of the other, + with the end of the cord that still bound his arms. Muss, as Jaap called + him, neither flinched nor cried. The pine stands not more erect or + unyielding, in a summer's noontide, than he bore up under the pain. + Indignantly I thrust the negro away, cut the fellow's bonds with my own + hands, and drove my slave before me to the canoe. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-36" id="linknote-36"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 36 (<a href="#linknoteref-36">return</a>)<br /> [ Holmes's Annals say, that + Lord John Murray commanded the 42d, on this occasion. I presume, as Mr. + Littlepage was there, and was posted so near the corps in question, he + cannot well be mistaken. Mrs. Grant, of Laggan, who was at Albany at the + time, and whose father was in the battle, agrees with Mr. Littlepage, in + saying that Gordon Graham led the 42d.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Pale set the sun—the shades of evening fell, + The mournful night-wind sung their funeral knell; + And the same day beheld their warriors dead, + Their sovereign captive and their glory fled!” + + MRS. HEMANS. +</pre> + <p> + I shall never forget the journey of that fearful night. Susquesus paddled + the canoe, unaided by us, who were too much fatigued with the toil of the + day, to labour much, as soon as we found ourselves in a place of safety. + Even Jaap lay down and slept for several hours, the sleep of the weary. I + do not think any of us, however, actually slept for the first hour or two, + the scenes through which we had just passed, and that, indeed, through + which we were then passing, acting as preventives to such an indulgence. + </p> + <p> + It must have been about nine in the evening, when our canoe quitted the + ill-fated shore at the south end of Lake George, moving steadily and + silently along the eastern margin of the sheet. By that time, fully five + hundred boats had departed for the head of the lake, the retreat having + commenced long before sunset. No order was observed in this melancholy + procession, each batteau moving off as her load was completed. All the + wounded were on the placid bosom of the 'Holy Lake,' as some writers have + termed this sheet of limpid water, by the time we ourselves got in motion; + and the sounds of parting boats told us that the unhurt were following as + fast as circumstances would allow. + </p> + <p> + What a night it was! There was no moon, and a veil of dark vapour was + drawn across the vault of the heavens, concealing most of the mild summer + stars, that ought to have been seen twinkling in their Creator's praise. + Down, between the boundaries of hills, there was not a breath of air, + though we occasionally heard the sighings of light currents among the + tree-tops, above us. The eastern shore having fewer sinuosities than the + western, most of the boats followed its dark, frowning mass, as the + nearest route, and we soon found ourselves near the line of the retiring + batteaux. I call it the line, for though there was no order observed each + party making the best of its way to the common point of destination, there + were so many boats in motion at the same time, that, far as the eye could + penetrate by that gloomy light, an unbroken succession of them was + visible. Our motion was faster than that of these heavily-laden and + feebly-rowed batteaux, the soldiers being too much fatigued to toil at the + oars, after the day they had just gone through. We consequently passed + nearly everything, and soon got on a parallel course with that of the + boats, moving along at a few rods in-shore of them. Dirck remarked, + however, that two or three small craft even passed us. They went so near + the mountain, quite within its shadows, in fact, as to render it difficult + to say what they were; though it was supposed they might be whale-boats, + of which there were more than a hundred in the flotilla, carrying officers + of rank. + </p> + <p> + No one spoke. It appeared to me that not a human voice was raised among + those humiliated and defeated thousands. The plash of oars, so long as we + were at a distance from the line, alone broke the silence of night; but + that was incessant. As our canoe drew ahead, however, an hour or two after + we had left the shore, and we overtook the boats that had first started, + the moaning and groans of the wounded became blended with the monotonous + sounds of the oars. In two respects, these unfortunate men had reason to + felicitate themselves, notwithstanding their sufferings. No army could + have transported its wounded with less pain to the hurt; and the feverish + thirst that loss of blood always induces, might be assuaged by the limpid + element on which we all floated. + </p> + <p> + After paddling for hours, Susquesus was relieved by Jaap, Dirck, Guert and + myself occasionally lending our aid. Each had a paddle, and each used it + as he saw fit, while the Onondago slept. Occasionally I caught a nap, + myself, as did my companions; and we all felt refreshed by the rest and + sleep. At length we reached the narrow pass, that separated the Upper from + the Lower Lake, and we entered the former. This is near the place where + the islands are so numerous, and we were unavoidably made to pass quite + close to some of the batteaux. I say to some, for the line became broken + at this point, each boat going through the openings it found the most + convenient. + </p> + <p> + “Come nearer with that bark canoe,” called out an officer, from a batteau; + “I wish to learn who is in it.” + </p> + <p> + “We are volunteers, that joined the ——th, the day the army + moved up, and were guests of Major Bulstrode. Pray sir, can you tell us + where that officer can be found?” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Bulstrode! He got a very awkward hit, early in the day, and was + taken past me to the rear. He will be able neither to walk nor to ride, + for some months, if they save his leg. I heard the Commander-In-Chief + order him to be sent across the lake, in the first boat with wounded; and + some one told me, Bulstrode, himself, expressed an intention to be carried + some distance, to a friend's house, to escape from the abominations of an + army hospital. The fellow has horses enough to transport him, on a + horse-litter, to Cape Horn, if he wishes it. I'll warrant you, Bulstrode + works his way into good quarters, if they are to be had in America. I + suppose this arm of mine will have to come off, as soon as we reach Fort + William Henry; and, that job done, I confess I should like amazingly to + keep him company. Proceed, gentlemen; I hope I have not detained you; but, + observing a bark canoe, I thought it my duty to ascertain we were not + followed by spies.” + </p> + <p> + This, then, was another victim of war! He spoke of the loss of his arm, + notwithstanding, with as much coolness as if it were the loss of a tooth; + yet; I question not, that in secret, he mourned over the calamity in + bitterness of heart. Men never wear the mask more completely than when + excited and stimulated by the rivalry of arms. Bulstrode, too, at + Ravensnest! He could be carried nowhere else, so easily; and, should his + wound be of a nature that did not require constant medical treatment, + where could he be so happily bestowed as under the roof of Herman + Mordaunt? Shall I confess that the idea gave me great pain, and that I was + fool enough to wish I, too, could return to Anneke, and appeal to her + sympathies, by dragging with me a wounded limb! + </p> + <p> + Our canoe now passed quite near another batteau, the officer in command of + which was standing erect, seemingly watching our movements. He appeared to + be unhurt, but was probably intrusted with some special duty. As we + paddled by, the following curious conversation occurred. + </p> + <p> + “You move rapidly to the rear, my friends,” observed the stranger; “pray + moderate your zeal; others are in advance of you with the evil tidings!” + </p> + <p> + “You must think ill of our patriotism and loyalty, sir, to imagine we are + hastening on with the intelligence of a check to the British arms,” I + answered as drily, and almost as equivocally, in manner, as the other had + spoken. + </p> + <p> + “The check!—I beg a thousand pardons—I see you <i>are</i> + patriots, and of the purest water! Check is just the word; though check-<i>mate</i> + would be more descriptive and significant! A charming time we've had of + it, gentlemen! What say you?—it is your move, now.” + </p> + <p> + “There has been much firmness and gallantry manifested by the troops,” I + answered, “as we, who have been merely volunteers, will always be ready to + testify.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardons, again and again,” returned the officer, raising his + hat and bowing profoundly—“I did not know I had the honour to + address volunteers. You are entitled to superlative respect, gentlemen, + having come voluntarily into such a field. For my part, I find the honour + oppressive, having no such supererogatory virtue to boast of. Volunteers! + On my word, gentlemen, you will have many wonders to relate, when you get + back into the family circle.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall have to speak of the gallantry of the Highlanders, for we saw + all they did and all they suffered.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Were you, then, near that brave corps!” exclaimed the other, with + something like honest, natural feeling, for the first time exhibited in + his voice and meaning; “I honour men who were only <i>spectators</i> of so + much courage, especially if they took a tolerably <i>near</i> view of it. + May I venture to ask your names, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + I answered, giving him our names, and mentioning the fact that we had been + the guest of Bulstrode, and how much we were disappointed in having missed + not only our friend, but his corps. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen, I honour courage, let it come whence it may,” said the + stranger, with strong feeling, and no acting, “and most admire it when I + see it exhibited by natives of these colonies, in a quarrel of their own. + I have heard of you as being with poor Howe, when he fell, and hope to + know more of you. As for Mr. Bulstrode, he has passed southward, now some + hours, and intends to make his cure among some connections that he has in + this province. Do not let this be the last of our intercourse, I beg of + you; but look up Capt. Charles Lee, of the ——th, who will be + glad to take each and all of you by the hand, when we once more get into + camp.” + </p> + <p> + We expressed our thanks, but Susquesus causing the canoe to make a sudden + inclination towards the shore, the conversation was suddenly interrupted. + </p> + <p> + By this time the Indian was awake, and exercising his authority in the + canoe, again. Gliding among the islands, he shortly landed us at the + precise point where we had embarked only five days before. Securing his + little bark, the Onondago led the way up the ravine, and brought us out on + the naked cap of the mountain, where we had before slept, after an hour of + extreme effort. + </p> + <p> + If the night had been so memorable, the picture presented at the dawn of + day, was not less so! We reached that lofty look-out about the same time + in the morning as the Indian had awakened me on the previous occasion, and + had the same natural outlines to the view. In one sense, also, the + artificial accessaries were the same, though exhibited under a very + different aspect. I presume the truth will not be much, if any exceeded, + when I say that a thousand boats were in sight, on this, as on the former + occasion! A few, a dozen or so, at most, appeared to have reached the head + of the lake; but all the rest of that vast flotilla was scattered along + the placid surface of the lovely sheet, forming a long, straggling line of + dark spots, that extended to the beach under Fort William Henry, in one + direction, and far as eye could reach in the other. How different did that + melancholy, broken procession of boats appear, from the gallant array, the + martial bands, the cheerful troops, and the multitude of ardent young men + who had pressed forward, in brigades, less than a week before, filled with + hope, and exulting in their strength! As I gazed on the picture I could + not but fancy to myself the vast amount of physical pain, the keen mental + suffering, and the deep mortification that might have been found, amid + that horde of returning adventurers. We had just come up from the level of + this scene of human agony, and our imaginations could portray details that + were beyond the reach of the senses, at the elevation on which we stood. + </p> + <p> + A week before, and the name of Abercrombie filled every mouth in America; + expectation had almost placed his renown on that giddy height, where + performance itself is so often insecure. In the brief interval, he was + destroyed. Those who had been ready to bless him, would now heap curses on + his devoted head, and none would be so bold as to urge aught in his + favour. Men in masses, when goaded by disappointment, are never just. It + is, indeed, a hard lesson for the individual to acquire; but, released + from his close, personal responsibility, the single man follows the crowd, + and soothes his own mortification and wounded pride by joining in the cry + that is to immolate a victim. Yet Abercrombie was not the foolhardy and + besotted bully that Braddock had proved himself to be. His misfortune was + to be ignorant of the warfare of the region in which he was required to + serve, and possibly to over-estimate the imaginary invincible character of + the veterans he led. In a very short time he was recalled, and America + heard no more of him. As some relief to the disgrace that had anew + alighted on the British arms, Bradstreet, a soldier who knew the country, + and who placed much reliance on the young man of her name and family whom + I had met at Madam Schuyler's, marched against Frontenac, in Canada, at + the head of a strong body of provincials; an enterprise that, as it was + conducted with skill, resulted in a triumph. + </p> + <p> + But with all this my narrative has no proper connection. No sooner did we + reach the bald mountain-top, than the Onondago directed Jaap to light a + fire, while he produced, from a deposit left on the advance, certain of + the materials that were necessary to a meal. As neither of us had tasted + food since the morning of the previous day, this repast was welcome, and + we all partook of it like so many famished men. The negro got his share, + of course, and then we called a council as to future proceedings. + </p> + <p> + “The question is, whether we ought to make a straight path to Ravensnest,” + observed Guert, “or proceed first to the surveyor's, and see how things + are going on in that direction.” + </p> + <p> + “As there can be no great danger of a pursuit on the part of the French, + since all their boats are in the other lake,” I remarked, “the state of + the country is very much what it was before the army moved.” + </p> + <p> + “Ask that question of the Indian,” put in Dirck, a little significantly. + </p> + <p> + We looked at Susquesus inquiringly, for a look always sufficed to let him + comprehend us, when a tolerably plain allusion had been previously made. + </p> + <p> + “Black-man do foolish t'ing,” observed the Onondago. + </p> + <p> + “What I do, you red-skin devil?” demanded Jaap, who felt a sort of natural + antipathy to all Indians, good or bad, excellent or indifferent; a feeling + that the Indians repaid to his race by contempt indifferently concealed. + “What I do, red-devil, ha?—dat you dares tell Masser Corny <i>dat</i>!” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus manifested no resentment at this strong and somewhat rude + appeal; but sat as motionless as if he had not heard it. This vexed Jaap + so much the more; and, my fellow being exceedingly pugnacious on all + occasions that touched his pride, there might have been immediate war + between the two, had I not raised a finger, at once effectually stilling + the outbreak of Jacob Satanstoe's wrath. + </p> + <p> + “You should not bring such a charge against my slave, Onondago,” I said, + “unless able to prove it.” + </p> + <p> + “He beat red warrior like dog.” + </p> + <p> + “What of dat!” growled Jaap, who was only half-quieted by my sign. “Who + ebber hear it hurt red-skin to rope-end him?” + </p> + <p> + “Warrior back like squaw's. Blow hurt him. He never forget.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, let him remember den,” grinned the negro, showing his ivory teeth + from ear to ear. “Muss was <i>my</i> prisoner; and what <i>good</i> he do + me, if he let go widout punishment. I wish you tell Masser Corny <i>dat</i>, + instead of tellin' him nonsense. When he flog me, who ebber hear me + grumble?” + </p> + <p> + “You have not had half enough of it, Jaap, or your manners would be + better,” I thought it necessary to put in, for the fellow had never before + manifested so quarrelsome a disposition in my presence; most probably + because I had never before seen him at variance with an Indian. “Let me + hear no more of this, or I shall be obliged to pay off the arrears on the + spot.” + </p> + <p> + “A little hiding does a nigger good, sometimes,” observed Guert, + significantly. + </p> + <p> + I observed that Dirck, who loved my very slave principally because he was + mine, looked at the offender reprovingly; and by these combined + demonstrations, we succeeded in curbing the fellow's tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Susquesus,” I added, “we all listen, to hear what you mean. + </p> + <p> + “Musquerusque chief—Huron chief—got very tender back; never + forget rope.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean us to understand that my black's prisoner will be apt to make + some attempt to revenge himself for the flogging he got from his captor?” + </p> + <p> + “Just so. Indian good memory—no forget friend—no forget + enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “But your Huron will be puzzled to find us, Onondago. He will suppose us + with the army; and, should he even venture to look for us there, you see + he will be disappointed.” + </p> + <p> + “Never know. Wood full of paths—Injin full of cunning. Why talk of + Ravensnest?” + </p> + <p> + “Was the name of Ravensnest mentioned in the presence of that Huron?” I + asked, more uneasy than such a trifle would probably have justified me in + confessing. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, something was said about it, but not in a way the fellow could + understand,” answered Guert, carelessly. “Let him come on, if he has not + had enough of us yet.” + </p> + <p> + This was not my manner of viewing the matter, however; for the mentioning + of Ravensnest brought Anneke to my mind, surrounded by the horrors of an + Indian's revenge. + </p> + <p> + “I will send you back to the Huron, Susquesus,” I added, “if you can name + to me the price that will purchase his forgiveness.” + </p> + <p> + The Onondago looked at me meaningly a moment; then, bending forward, he + passed the fore-finger of his hand around the head of Jaap, along the line + that is commonly made by the knife of the warrior, as he cuts away the + trophy of success from his victim. Jaap comprehended the meaning of this + very significant gesture, as well as any of us, and the manner in which he + clutched the wool, as if to keep the scalp in its place, set us all + laughing. The negro did not partake of our mirth; but I saw that he + regarded the Indian, much as the bull-dog shows his teeth, before he makes + his spring. Another motion of my finger, however, quelled the rising. It + was necessary to put an end to this, and Jaap was ordered to prepare our + packs, in readiness for the expected march. Relieved from his presence, + Susquesus was asked to be more explicit. + </p> + <p> + “You know Injin,” the Onondago answered. “Now he t'ink red-coats driv' + away and skeared, he go look for scalp. Love all sort scalp—old + scalp, young scalp—man scalp, woman scalp—boy scalp, gal scalp—all + get pay, all get honour. No difference to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” exclaimed Guert, with a strong aspiration, such as escapes a man who + feels strongly; “he is a devil incarnate, when he once gets fairly on the + scent of blood! So you expect these French Injins will make an excursion + in among the settlers, out here to the south-east of us?” + </p> + <p> + “Go to nearest—don't care where he be. Nearest your friend; won't + like that, s'pose?” + </p> + <p> + “You are right enough, Onondago, in saying that. I shall not like it, nor + will my companions, here, like it; and the first thing you will have to + do, will be to guide us, straight as the bird flies, to the Ravensnest; + the picketed house, you know, where we have left our sweethearts.” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus understood all that was said, without any difficulty; in proof + of which, he smiled at this allusion to the precious character of the + inmates of the house Guert told him to seek. + </p> + <p> + “Squaw pretty 'nough,” he answered, complacently. “No wonder young man + like him. But, can't go there, now. First find friends measure land. All + Injin land, once!” + </p> + <p> + This last remark was made in a way I did not like; for the idea seemed to + cross the Onondago's brain so suddenly, as to draw from him this brief + assertion in pure bitterness of spirit. + </p> + <p> + “I should be very sorry if it had not been, Susquesus,” I observed, + myself, “since the title is all the better for its having been so, as our + Indian deed will show. You know, of course, that my father, and his + friend, Col. Follock, bought this land of the Mohawks, and paid them their + own price for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Red-man nebber measure land so. He p'int with finger, break bush down, + and say, 'there, take from that water to that water.'” + </p> + <p> + “All very true, my friend; but, as that sort of measurement will not + answer to keep farms separate, we are obliged to survey the whole off into + lots of smaller size. The Mohawks first gave my father and his friend, as + much land as they could walk round in two suns, allowing them the night to + rest in.” + </p> + <p> + “<i>That</i> good deed!” exclaimed the Indian, with strong emphasis. “Leg + can't cheat—pen great rogue.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we have the benefit of both grants; for the proprietors actually + walked round the estate, a party of Indians accompanying them, to see that + all was fair. After that, the chiefs signed a deed in writing, that there + might be no mistake, and then we got the King's grant.” + </p> + <p> + “Who give King land, at all?—All land here red-man land; who give + him to king?” + </p> + <p> + “Who made the Delawares women?—The warriors of he Six nations, was + it not, Susquesus?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—my people help. Six Nation great warrior, and put petticoat on + Delawares, so they can't go on war-path any more. What that to do with + King's land?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the King's warriors, you know, my friend, have taken possession of + this country, just as the Six Nations took possession of the Delawares, + before they made them women.” + </p> + <p> + “What become of King's warrior, now?” demanded the Indian, quick as + lightning. “Where he run away to? Where land Ticonderoga, now? Whose land + t'other end lake, now?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the King's troops have certainly met with a disaster; and, for the + present, their rights are weakened, it must be admitted. But, another day + may see all this changed, and the King will got his land again. You will + remember, he has not sold Ticonderoga to the French, as the Mohawks sold + Mooseridge to us; and that, you must admit, makes a great difference. A + bargain is a bargain, Onondago.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, bargain, bargain—that good. Good for red-man, good for + pale-face—no difference—what Mohawk sell, he no take back, but + let pale-face keep—but how come Mohawk and King sell, too? Bot' own + land, eh?” + </p> + <p> + This was rather a puzzling question to answer to an Indian. We white + people can very well understand that a human government, which professes, + on the principles recognised by civilized nations, to have jurisdiction + over certain extensive territories that lie in the virgin forest, and + which are used only, and that occasionally, by certain savage tribes as + hunting-grounds, should deem it right to satisfy those tribes, by + purchase, before they parcelled out their lands for the purposes of + civilized life; but, it would not be so easy to make an unsophisticated + mind understand that there could be two owners to the same property. The + transaction is simple enough to us, and it tells in favour of our habits, + for we have the power to grant these lands without 'extinguishing the + Indian title,' as it is termed; but it presents difficulties to the + understandings of those who are not accustomed to see society surrounded + by the multifarious interests of civilization. In point of fact, the + Indian purchases give no other title, under our laws, than the right to + sue out, in council, a claim to acquire by, the grant of the crown; paying + to the latter such a consideration as in its wisdom it shall see fit to + demand. Still, it was necessary to make some answer to the Onondago's + question, lest he might carry away the mistaken notion that we did not + justly own our possessions. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose you find a rifle to your fancy, Susquesus,” I said, after + reflecting a moment on the subject, “and you find two Indians who both + claim to own it; now, if you pay each warrior his price, is your right to + the title any the worse for having done so? Is it not rather better?” + </p> + <p> + The Indian was struck with this reply, which suited the character of his + mind. Thrusting out his hand, he received mine, and shook it cordially, as + much as to say he was satisfied. Having disposed of this episode thus + satisfactorily, we turned to the more interesting subject of our immediate + movements. + </p> + <p> + “It would seem that the Onondago expects the French Indians will now + strike at the settlements,” I remarked to my companions, “and, that our + friends at Ravensnest may need our aid; but, at the same time, he thinks + we should first return to Mooseridge, and join the surveyors. Which mode + of proceeding strikes you as the best, my friends?” + </p> + <p> + “Let us first hear the Injin's reasons for going after the surveyors,” + answered Guert. “If he has a sufficient reason for his plan, I am ready to + follow it.” + </p> + <p> + “Surveyor got scalp, as well as squaw,” said Susquesus, in his brief, + meaning manner. + </p> + <p> + “That must settle the point!” exclaimed Guert. “I understand it all, now. + The Onondago thinks the Mooseridge party may be cut off, as being alone + and unsupported, and that we ought to apprise them of this danger.” + </p> + <p> + “All perfectly just,” I replied, “and it is what they, being our own + people, have a right to expect from us. Still, Guert, I should think those + surveyors might be safe where they are, in the bosom of the forest, for a + year to come. Their business there cannot be known, and who is then to + betray them?” + </p> + <p> + “See,” said Susquesus, earnestly. “Kill deer, and leave him in the wood. + Won't raven find carcass?” + </p> + <p> + “That may be true enough; but a raven has an instinct, given him by + nature, to furnish him with food. He flies high in the air, moreover, and + can see farther than an Indian.” + </p> + <p> + “Nuttin' see farther than Injin! Red-man fly high, too. See from salt lake + to sweet water. Know ebbery t'ing in wood. Tell him nuttin' he don't + know.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not suppose, Susquesus, that the Huron warriors could find our + surveyors, at Mooseridge?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, no find him? Find moose; why no find ridge, too? Find Mooseridge, + sartain; find land-measurer.” + </p> + <p> + “On the whole, Corny,” Guert remarked after musing a little, “we may do + well to follow the Injin's advice. I have heard of so many misfortunes + that have befallen people in the bush, from having despised Indian + counsels, that I own to a little superstition on the subject. Just look at + what happened yesterday! Had red-skin opinions been taken, Abercrombie + might now have been a conqueror, instead of a miserable, beaten man.” + </p> + <p> + Susquesus raised a finger, and his dark countenance became illumined by an + expression that was more eloquent even than his tongue. + </p> + <p> + “Why no open ear to red-man!” he asked, with dignity. “Some bird sing a + song that good—some sing bad song—but all bird know his own + song. Mohawk warrior use to wood, and follow a crooked war-path, when he + meet much enemy. Great Yengeese chief think his warrior have two life, + that he put him before cannon and rifle, to stand up and be shot. No Injin + do so foolish—no—never!” + </p> + <p> + As this was too true to be controverted, the matter was not discussed; + but, having determined among ourselves to let the Onondago take us back on + the path by which we had come, we announced our readiness to start as soon + as it might suit his convenience. Being sufficiently rested, Susquesus, + who did everything on system, manifesting neither impatience nor laziness, + arose and quietly led the way. Our course was just the reverse of that on + which we had travelled when we left Mooseridge; and I did not fail to + observe that, so accurate was the knowledge of our guide, we passed many + of the same objects as we had previously gone near. There was nothing like + a track, with the exception of occasional foot-prints left by ourselves; + but it was evident the Onondago paid not the least attention to these, + possessing other and more accessible clues to his course. + </p> + <p> + Guert marched next to the Indian, and I was third in the line. How often, + that busy day, did I gaze at my file-leader, in admiration of his figure + and mien! Nature appeared to have intended him for a soldier. Although so + powerful, his frame was agile—a particular in which he differed from + Dirck; who, although so young, already gave symptoms of heaviness, at no + distant day. Then Guert's carriage waa as fine as his form. The head was + held erect; the eye was intrepid in its glance; and the tread elastic, + though so firm. To the last hour, on that long and weary march, Guert + leaped logs, sprang across hollows in the ground, and otherwise manifested + that his iron sinews and hardened muscles retained all their powers. As he + moved in my front, I saw, for the first time, that some of the fringe of + his hunting-shirt had been cut away in the fight, and that a musket-ball + had passed directly through his cap. I afterwards ascertained that Guert + was aware of these escapes, but his nature was so manly he did not think + of mentioning them. + </p> + <p> + We made a single halt, as before, to dine; but little was said, at this + meal, and no change in our plan was proposed. This was the point where we + ought to have diverged from the former course, did we intend to proceed + first to Ravensnest; but, though all knew it, nothing was said on the + subject. + </p> + <p> + “We shall carry unwelcome tidings to Mr. Traverse, and his men,” Guert + observed, a minute or two before our halt was up; “for, I take it for + granted, the news cannot have gone ahead of <i>us</i>.” + </p> + <p> + “We first,” answered the Onondago. “Too soon for Huron, yet. T'ink so—nobody + know.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish, Corny,” pursued the Albanian, “we had thought of saying a word to + Doortje about this accursed expedition. There is no use in a man's being + above his business; and he who puts himself in the way of fortune, might + profit by now and then consulting a fortune-teller.” + </p> + <p> + “Had we done so, and had all that has happened been foretold, do you + suppose it would have made any change in the result?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not, since we should have been the persons to relate what we had + heard. But, Abercrombie, himself, need have had no scruples about visiting + that remarkable old woman. She's a wonderful creature, Corny, as we must + allow, and a prudent general would not fail to respect what she told him. + It is a thousand pities that either the Commander-In-Chief, or the + Adjutant-General, had not paid Doortje a visit before they left Albany. My + Lord Howe's valuable life might then have been saved.” + </p> + <p> + “In what way. Guert? I am at a loss to see in what manner any good could + come of it.” + </p> + <p> + “In what manner?—Why, in the plainest possible. Now, suppose Doortje + had foretold this defeat; it is clear, Abercrombie, if he put any faith in + the old woman, would not have made the attack.” + </p> + <p> + “And thus defeat the defeat. Do you not see, Guert, that the soothsayer + can, at the best, but foretell what <i>is</i> to happen, and that which <i>must</i> + come <i>will</i>. It would be an easy matter for any of us to get great + reputations for fortune-telling, if all we had to do was to predict + misfortunes, in order that our friends might avoid them. As nothing would + ever happen, in consequence of the precautions taken to avert the evils, a + name would be easily and cheaply maintained.” + </p> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas! Corny, I never thought of that! But, you have been + college-taught; and a thousand things are picked up at colleges, that one + never dreams of at an academy. I see reason, every day, to lament my + idleness when a boy; and fortunate shall I be, if I do not lament it all + my life.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Guert! He was always so humble, when the subject of education arose, + however accidentally or unintentionally on my part, that it was never + commented on, that it did not give me pain, exciting a wish to avoid it. + As the time for the halt was now up, it was easy to terminate the present + discussion, by declaring as much, and proceeding on our way. + </p> + <p> + We had a hard afternoon's walk of it, though neither of the five + manifested the least disposition to give in. As for Susquesus, to me, he + never seemed to know either fatigue or hunger. He was doubtless acquainted + with both; but his habits of self-command were so severe, as to enable him + completely to conceal his sufferings in this, as well as in most other + respects. + </p> + <p> + The sun was near setting when we entered within the limits of the + Mooseridge estate. We ascertained this fact by passing the line-trees, + some of which had figures cut into their barks, to denote the numbers of + the great subdivisions of the property. Guert pointed out these marks; + being far more accustomed to the woods than either Dirck or myself. Aided + by such guides, we had no difficulty in making a sufficiently straight + course to the hut. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus thought a little caution necessary, as we drew near to the end + of our journey. Causing us to remain behind, he advanced in front, + himself, to reconnoitre. A signal, however, soon took us to the place + where he stood, when we discovered the hut just as we had left it, but no + one near it. This might be the result of mere accident, the surveying + party frequently 'camping out,' in preference to making a long march after + a fatiguing day's work; and Pete would be very likely to prefer going to + join these men, to remaining alone in the hut. We advanced to the + building, therefore, with confidence. On reaching it, we found the place + empty, as had been anticipated, though with every sign about it of its + tenants having left it but a short time previously; that morning, at the + furthest. + </p> + <p> + Jaap set about preparing a supper out of the regular supplies of the + party; all of which were found in their places, and in abundance. On + inquiry of the fellow, I ascertained it was his opinion Mr. Traverse had + gone off that very day, most probably to some distant portion of the + Patent, taking Pete with him, as everything was covered up and put away + with that sort of care that denotes an absence of some little time. The + Indian heard the negro's remark, to this effect, and, tossing his head + significantly, he said— + </p> + <p> + “No need guess—-go see—light enough—plenty time. Injin + soon tell.” + </p> + <p> + He quitted the hut, on the spot, and immediately set about this + self-assigned duty. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Thou tremblest; and the whiteness in thy cheek + Is apter than thy tongue to tell thy errand.” + + SHAKSPEARE. +</pre> + <p> + Curiosity induced me to follow the Indian, in order to watch his + movements. Susquesus proceeded a short distance from the hut, quitting the + knoll entirely, until he reached lower land, where a foot-print would be + most likely to be visible, when he commenced a slow circuit of the place, + with eyes fastened on the earth, as the nose of the hound follows the + scent. I was so much interested in the Onondago's manner, as to join him, + falling-in in his rear, in order not to interfere with his object. + </p> + <p> + Of foot-marks there were plenty, more particularly on the low, moist + ground, where we were; but they all appeared, to me, to have no interest + with the Indian. Most of our party wore moccasins; and it was not easy to + see how, under such circumstances, and amid such a maze of impressions, it + could be possible for any one to distinguish a hostile from a friendly + trail. That Susquesus thought the thing might be done, however, was very + evident by his perseverance, and his earnestness. + </p> + <p> + At first, my companion met with no success, or with nothing that he + fancied success; but, after making half the circuit of the hut, keeping + always a hundred yards distant from it, he suddenly stopped; stooped quite + to the earth; then arose, and, sticking a broken knot into the ground, as + a mark, he signed to me to keep a little on one side, while he turned at + right angles to his former course, and moved inwards towards our dwelling. + I followed slowly, watching his movements, step by step. + </p> + <p> + In this manner we reached the hut, deviating from a direct line, in order + to do so. At the hut, itself, Susquesus made a long and minute + examination; but even I could see, that the marks here were so numerous, + as to baffle even him. After finishing his search at this point, the + Indian turned, and went back to the place where he had stuck the knot in + the ground. In doing this, however, he followed his own trail, returning + by precisely the same deviating course as that by which he had come. This, + alone, would have satisfied me that he saw more than I did; for, to own + the truth, I could not have done the same thing. + </p> + <p> + When we reached the knot, Susquesus followed that (to me invisible) trail + outside of the circle, leading off into the forest in a direct line from + the hut and spring. I continued near him, although neither had spoken + during the whole of this examination, which had now lasted quite half an + hour. As it was getting dark, however, and Jaap showed the signal that our + supper was ready, I thought it might be well, at length, to break the + silence. + </p> + <p> + “What do you make of all this, Trackless?” I inquired. “Do you find any + signs of a trail?” + </p> + <p> + “Good trail”—Susquesus answered; “new trail, too Look like Huron!” + </p> + <p> + This was startling intelligence, certainly; yet, much as I was disposed to + defer to my companion's intelligence in such matters, in general, I + thought he must be mistaken in his fact. In the first place, though I had + seen many foot-prints near the hut, and along the low land on which the + Indian made his circuit, I could see none where we then were. I mentioned + this to the Indian, and desired him to show me, particularly, one of the + signs which had led him to his conclusion. + </p> + <p> + “See,” said Susquesus, stooping so low as to place a finger on the dead + leaves that ever make a sort of carpet to the forest, “here been moccasin—that + heel; this toe.” + </p> + <p> + Aided, in this manner, I could discover a faint foot-print, which might, + by aid of the imagination, be thus read; though the very slight impression + that was to be traced, might almost as well be supposed anything else, as + it seemed to me. + </p> + <p> + “I see what you mean, Susquesus; and, I allow, it <i>may</i> be a + foot-print,” I answered; “but then it may also have been left by anything + else, which has touched the ground just at that spot. It may have been + made by a falling branch of a tree.” + </p> + <p> + “Where branch?” asked the Indian, quick as lightning. + </p> + <p> + “Sure enough; that is more than I can tell you. But I cannot suppose <i>that</i> + a Huron foot-print, without more evidence than you now give.” + </p> + <p> + “What you call that?—this—that—t'other?” added the + Indian, stepping quickly back, and pointing to four other similar, but + very faint impressions on the leaves; “no see him, eh?—Just leg + apart, too!” + </p> + <p> + This was true enough; and now my attention was thus directed, and my + senses were thus aided, I confess I did discover certain proofs of + footsteps, that would, otherwise, have baffled my most serious search. + </p> + <p> + “I can see what you mean, Susquesus,” I said, “and will allow that this + line of impressions, or marks, does make them look more like footsteps. At + any rate, most of our party wear moccasins as well as the red-men, and how + do you know that some of the surveyors have not passed this way?” + </p> + <p> + “Surveyor no make such mark. Toe turn in.” + </p> + <p> + This was true, too. But it did not follow that a foot-print was a Huron's, + merely because it was Indian. Then, where were the enemy's warriors to + come from, in so short a time as had intervened between the late battle + and the present moment? There was little question all the forces of the + French, pale-face and red-man, had been collected at Ticonderoga to meet + the English; and the distance was so great as almost to render it + impossible for a party to reach this spot so soon, coming from the + vicinity of the fortress after the occurrence of the late events. Did not + the lake interpose an obstacle, I might have inferred that parties of + skirmishers would be thrown on the flanks of the advancing army, thus + bringing foes within a lessened distance of us; but, there was the lake, + affording a safe approach for more than thirty miles, and rendering the + employment of any such skirmishers useless. All this occurred to me at the + moment, and I mentioned it to my companion as an argument against his own + supposition. + </p> + <p> + “No true,” answered Susquesus, shaking his head. “That trail—he + Huron trail, too. Don't know red-man to say so.” + </p> + <p> + “But red-men are human as well as pale-faces. It must be seventy miles + from this spot to the foot of Lake George, and your conjecture would make + it necessary that a party should have travelled that distance in less than + twenty-four hours, and be here some time before us.” + </p> + <p> + “We no travel him, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “I grant you that, Trackless; but we came a long bit of the road in a + canoe, each and all of us sleeping, and resting ourselves, in turns. These + Hurons must have come the whole distance by land.” + </p> + <p> + “No so. Huron paddle canoe well as Onondago. Lake there—canoe + plenty. Why not come?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you suppose, Trackless, that any of the French Indians would venture + on the lake while it was covered with our boats, as was the case last + night?” + </p> + <p> + “What 'our boat' good for, eh? Carry wounded warrior—carry runaway + warrior—what he care? T'ink Huron 'fraid of boat? Boat got eye, eh? + Boat see; boat hear, boat shoot, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not; but those who were in the boats can do all this, and would + be apt, at least, to speak to a strange canoe.” + </p> + <p> + “Boat speak my canoe, eh? Onondago canoe, strange canoe, too.” + </p> + <p> + All this was clear enough, when I began to reflect on it. It was certainly + possible for a canoe with two or three paddles, to go the whole length of + the lake in much less time than we had employed in going two-thirds of the + distance; and a party landing in the vicinity of William-Henry, could + certainly have reached the spot where we then were, several hours sooner + than we had reached it ourselves. Still, there existed all the other + improbabilities on my side of the question. It was improbable that a party + should have proceeded in precisely this manner; it was still more + improbable that such a party, coming on a war-path, from a distant part of + the country, should know exactly where to find our hut. After a moment's + pause, and while we both slowly proceeded to join our companion, I + suggested these objections to the Onondago. + </p> + <p> + “Don't know Injin,” answered the other, betraying more earnestness of + manner than was usual with him, when he condescended to discuss any of the + usages of the tribes, with a pale-face. “He fight first; then he want + scalp. Ever see dead horse in wood—well, no crow there, eh? Plenty + crow, isn't he? Just so, Injin. Wounded soldier carry off, and Injin watch + in wood, behind army, to get scalp. Scalp good, after battle. Want him, + very much. Wood full of Huron, along path to Albany. Yengeese down in + heart; Huron up. Scalp so good, t'ink of nuttin' else.” + </p> + <p> + By this time we had reached the hut, where I found Guert and Dirck already + at their supper. I will own that my appetite was not as good as it might + have been, but for the Onondago's conjectures and discoveries; though I + took a seat, and began to eat with my friends. While at the meal, I + communicated to my companions all that had passed, particularly asking of + Guert, who had a respectable knowledge of the bush, what he thought of the + probabilities of the case. + </p> + <p> + “If hostile red-skins have really been here, lately,” the Albanian + answered, “they have been thoroughly cunning devils; for not an article in + or about the hut has been disturbed. I had an eye to that myself, the + moment we arrived; for I have thought it far from unlikely that the Hurons + would be out, on the road between William-Henry and the settlements, + trying to get scalps from the parties that would be likely to be sent to + the rear with wounded officers.” + </p> + <p> + “In which case our friend Bulstrode might be in danger?” + </p> + <p> + “He must take his chance, like all of us. But, he will probably be carried + to Ravensnest, as the nearest nest for him to nestle in. I don't half like + this trail, however, Corny; it is seldom a red-skin of the Onondago's + character, makes a mistake in such a matter!” + </p> + <p> + “It is too late, now, to do anything to-night,” Dirck observed. “Besides, + I don't think any great calamity is likely to befall any of us, or Doortje + would have dropped some hint about it. These fortune-tellers seldom let + anything serious pass without a notice of some sort or other. You see, + Corny, we went through all this business at Ty, without a scratch, which + is so much in favour of the old woman's being right.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Dirck! that prediction had made a deep impression on his character, + and on his future life. A man's faith must be strong, to fancy that a + negative of this nature could carry with it any of the force of a + positive, affirmative prediction. Nevertheless, Dirck had spoken the + truth, in one respect. It was too late to do anything that night, and it + only remained to prepare to take our rest as securely as possible. + </p> + <p> + We consulted on the subject, calling on the Indian to aid us. After + talking the matter over, it was determined to remain where we were, + securing the door, and bringing everybody within the building; for the + negroes and the Indians had been much in the habit of sleeping about, + under brush covers that they had erected for themselves. It was thought + that, having once visited the hut, and finding it empty, the enemy, if + enemy there were, would not be very likely to return to it immediately, + and that wo might consider our selves as comparatively safe, from that + circumstance alone. Then, there were all the chances that the trail might + have been left by friendly, instead of hostile Indians, although Susquesus + shook his head in the negative, whenever this was mentioned. At all + events, we had but a choice of three expedients—to abandon the + Patent, and seek safety in flight; to 'camp out;' or to shut ourselves up + in our fortress. Of the first, no one thought for a moment; and of the two + others, we decided on the last, as far the most comfortable, and, on the + whole, as the safest. + </p> + <p> + An hour after we had come to this determination, I question if either of + the five knew anything about it. I never slept more profoundly in my life, + and my companions subsequently gave the same account of their several + conditions. Fatigue, and youth, and health, gave us all refreshing sleep; + and, as we lay down at nine, two o'clock came after so much time totally + lost in the way of consciousness. I say two o'clock; for my watch told me + that was just the hour, when the Indian awoke me, by shaking my shoulder. + One gets the habits of watchfulness in the woods, and I was on my feet in + an instant. + </p> + <p> + Dark as it was, for it was deep night, I could distinguish that Susquesus + was alone stirring, and that he had unbarred the door of our cabin. + Indeed, he passed through that open space, into the air of the forest, the + moment he perceived I was conscious of what I was about. Without pausing + to reflect, I followed, and soon stood at his side, some fifteen or twenty + feet from the hut. + </p> + <p> + “This good place to hear,” said the Indian, in a low suppressed tone. + “Now, open ear.” + </p> + <p> + What a scene was that, which now presented itself to my senses! I can see + it, at this distance of time, after years of peaceful happiness, and years + of toil and adventure. The morning, or it might be better to say the + night, was not very dark in itself; but the gloom of the woods being added + to the obscurity of the hour, it lent an intensity of blackness to the + trunks of the trees, that gave to each a funereal and solemn aspect. It + was impossible to see for any distance, and the objects that were visible + were only those that were nearest at hand. Notwithstanding, one might + imagine the canopied space beneath the tops of the trees, and fancy it, in + the majesty of its gloomy vastness. Of sounds there were literally none, + when the Indian first bade me listen. The stillness was so profound, that + I thought I heard the sighing of the night air among the upper branches of + the loftier trees. This might have been mere imagination; nevertheless, + all above the summits of the giant oaks, maples and pines, formed a sort + of upper world as regarded us; a world with which we had little + communication, during our sojourn in the woods below. The raven, and the + eagle, and the hawk, sailed in that region, above the clouds of leaves + beneath them, and occasionally stooped, perhaps, to strike their quarry; + but, to all else, it was inaccessible, and to a degree invisible. + </p> + <p> + But, my present concern is with the world I was in; and, what a world it + was! Solemn, silent, dark, vast and mysterious. I listened in vain, to + catch the footstep of some busy squirrel, for the forest was alive with + the smaller animals, by night quite as much as by day; but everything, at + that moment, seemed stilled to the silence of death. + </p> + <p> + “I can hear nothing, Trackless,” I whispered—“Why are you out here?” + </p> + <p> + “You hear, soon—wake me up, and I hear twice. Soon come ag'in.” + </p> + <p> + It did soon come again. It was a human cry, escaping from human lips in + their agony! I heard it once only; but, should I live to be a hundred, it + would not be forgotten. I often hear it in my sleep, and twenty times have + I awoke since, fancying that agonizing call was in my ears. It was long, + loud, piercing, and the word 'help' was as distinct as tongue could make + it. + </p> + <p> + “Great God!” I exclaimed—“some one is set upon, and calls for aid in + his extremity. Let us arouse our friends, and go to his assistance. I + cannot remain here, Susquesus, with such a cry in my ears.” + </p> + <p> + “Best go, t'ink too,” answered the Onondago. “No need call, though; two + better than four. Stop minute.” + </p> + <p> + I did remain stationary that brief space, listening with agonized + uncertainty, while the Indian entered the hut, and returned, bringing out + his rifle and my own. Arming ourselves, and shutting the door of the + cabin, to exclude the night-air, at least, Susquesus led off, with his + noiseless step, in a south-west direction, or that in which we had heard + the sound. + </p> + <p> + Our march was too swift and earnest to admit of discourse. The Onondago + had admonished me to make as little noise as possible; and, between the + anxiety I felt, and the care taken to comply, there was, indeed, but + little opportunity for conversing. My feelings were wrought up to a high + pitch; but my confidence in my companion being great, I followed in his + footsteps, as diligently as my skill would allow. Susquesus rather trod on + air than walked; yet I kept close at his heels, until we had gone, as I + should think, fully half a mile in the direction from which that awful cry + had come. Here Susquesus halted, saying to me, in a low voice— + </p> + <p> + “No far from here—best stop.” + </p> + <p> + I submitted, in all things, to the directions of my Indian guide. The + latter had selected the dark shadows of two or three young pines for our + cover, where, by getting within their low branches, we were completely + concealed from any eye that was distant from us eight or ten feet. No + sooner were we thus posted, than the Onondago pointed to the trunk of a + fallen tree, and we took our seats silently on it. I observed that my + companion kept his thumb on the cock of his rifle, while his fore-finger + was passed around the trigger. It is scarcely necessary to say that I + observed the same precaution. + </p> + <p> + “This good,” said Susquesus, in a voice so low and soft that it could not + attract more attention than a whisper; “this very good—hear him + ag'in, soon; then know.” + </p> + <p> + A stifled groan <i>was</i> heard, and that almost as soon as my companion + ceased to speak. I felt my blood curdle at these frightful evidences of + human suffering; and an impulse of humanity caused me to move, as if about + to rise. The hand of Trackless checked the imprudence. + </p> + <p> + “No good,” he said, sternly. “Sit still. Warrior know how to sit still.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Heavenly Providence! There is some one in agony, quite near us, man. + Did you not hear a groan Trackless?” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure, hear him.—What of that? Pain make groan come, alway, + from pale-face.” + </p> + <p> + “You think, then, it is a white-man who suffers? if so, it must be one of + our party, as there is no one else near us. If I hear it again, I must go + to his relief, Onondago.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you behave like squaw? What of little groan? Sartain, he pale-face; + Injin never groan on war-path. Why he groan, you t'ink? Cause Huron meet + him. That reason he groan. You groan, too, no sit still. Injin know time + to shoot—know time not to shoot.” + </p> + <p> + I had every disposition to call aloud, to inquire who needed succour; yet + the admonitions of my companion, aided as they, were by the gloomy + mysteries of that vast forest, in the hour of deepest night, enabled me to + command the impulse. Three times, notwithstanding, was that groan + repeated; and, as it appeared to me, each time more and more faintly. I + thought, too, when all was still in the forest—when we sat ourselves + in breathless expectation of what might next reach our ears—attentive + to each sighing of the night-air, and distrustful even of the rustling + leaf—that the last groan of all, though certainly the faintest of + any we had heard, was much the nearest. Once, indeed, I heard, or fancied + I heard, the word 'water,' murmured in a low, smothered tone, almost in my + ear. I thought, too, I knew the voice; that it was familiar to me; though + I could not decide, in the state of my feelings, exactly to whom, it + belonged. + </p> + <p> + In this manner we passed what, to me, were two of the most painful hours + of my life, waiting the slow return of light. My own impatience was nearly + ungovernable; though the Indian sat, the whole of that time, seemingly as + insensible as the log which formed his seat, and almost as motionless. At + length this intensely anxious, and even physically painful watch, drew + near its end. Signs of day gleamed through the canopy of leaves, and the + rays of dull light appeared to struggle downward, rendering objects dimly + discernible. + </p> + <p> + It was not long ere we could ascertain that we had so completely covered + ourselves, as to be in a position where the branches of the pines + completely shut out the view of objects beyond. This was favourable to + reconnoitring, however, previously to quitting our concealment, and + enabled us to have some care of ourselves while attending to the duties of + humanity. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus used the greatest caution in looking around before he left the + cover. I was close at his side, peeping through such openings as offered; + for my curiosity was so intense, that I almost forgot the causes for + apprehension. It was not long before I heard the familiar Indian + interjection, “hugh!” from my companion; a proof that something had caught + his eye, of a more than ordinarily exciting character. He pointed in the + way I was to look, and there, indeed, I beheld one of those frightful + instances of barbarous cruelty, that the usages of savage warfare have + sanctioned, as far back as our histories extend, among the forest warriors + of this continent. The tops of two saplings had been brought down near + each other, by main force, the victim's hands attached firmly to upper + branches of each, and the trees permitted to fly back to their natural + positions, or as near them as the revolting means of junction would allow. + I could scarce believe my senses, when my sight first revealed the truth. + But there hung the victim, suspended by his arms, at an elevation of at + least ten or fifteen feet from the earth. I confess I sincerely hoped he + was dead, and the motionless attitude of the body gave me reason to think + it might be so. Still, the cries for “help,” uttered wildly, hopelessly, + in the midst of a vast and vacant forest, the groans extorted by + suffering, must have been his. He had probably been thus suspended and + abandoned, while alive! + </p> + <p> + Even the Onondago could not restrain me, after I fully saw and understood + the nature of the cruelty which had been exercised on the miserable victim + who was thus suspended directly before my eyes, and I broke out of the + cover, ready, I am willing to confess, to pull trigger on the first + hostile red-man I saw. Fortunately for myself, most probably, the place + had long been deserted. As the back of the sufferer was towards me, I + could not tell who he was; but his dress was coarse, and of the + description that belongs to the lowest class. Blood had flowed freely from + his head, and I made no doubt he had been scalped; though the height at + which he hung, and the manner in which his head had fallen forward upon + his breast, prevented me front ascertaining the fact at once, by the aid + of sight. Thus much did I perceive, however, ere the Indian joined me. + </p> + <p> + “See!” said Susquesus, whose quick eye never let anything escape it long, + “told you so; Huron been here.” + </p> + <p> + As this was said, the Indian pointed significantly at the naked skin, + which was visible between the heavy, coarse shoes of the victim, and the + trowsers he wore, when I discovered it was black. Moving quickly in front, + so as to get a view of the face, I recognised the distorted features of + Petrus, or Pete, Guert Ten Eyck's negro. This man had been left with the + surveyors, it will be remembered, and he had either fallen into the hands + of his captors, while at the hut, engaged in his ordinary duties, or he + had been met in the forest while going to, or coming from those he served, + and had thus been treated. We never ascertained the facts, which remain in + doubt to this hour. + </p> + <p> + “Give me your tomahawk, Trackless,” I cried, as soon as horror would + permit me to speak, “that I may cut down this sapling, and liberate the + unfortunate creature!” + </p> + <p> + “No good—better so,” answered the Indian. “Bear—wolf can't get + him, now. Let black-skin hang—good as bury—no safe stay here + long. Look round and count Huron, then go.” + </p> + <p> + “Look round and count the Hurons,” I thought to myself; “and in what + manner is this to be done?” By this time, however, it was sufficiently + light to see foot-prints, if any there were, and the Onondago set about + examining such traces of what had passed at that terrible spot, as might + be intelligible to one of his experience. + </p> + <p> + At the foot of a huge oak, that grew a few yards from the fatal saplings, + we found the two wooden, covered pails in which we knew Pete had been + accustomed to carry food to Mr. Traverse and the chain-bearers. They were + empty, but whether the provisions they unquestionably had contained fell + to the share of those for whom they were intended, or to that of the + captors, we never learned. No traces of bones, potato-skins, or other + fragments were discovered; and, if the Hurons had seized the provisions, + they doubtless transferred them to their own repositories, without + stopping to eat. Susquesus detected proof that the victim had been seated + at the foot of the oak, and that he had been seized at that spot. There + were the marks of many feet there, and some proofs of a slight scuffle. + Blood, too, was to be traced on the leaves, from the foot of the oak, to + the place where poor Pete was suspended; a proof that he had been hurt, + previously to being abandoned to his cruel fate. + </p> + <p> + But the point of most interest with Trackless was to ascertain the number + of our foes. This might be done, in some measure, according to his view of + the matter, by means of the foot-prints. There was no want of such signs, + the leaves being much disturbed in places, though after a short but + anxious search, my companion thought it wisest to repair to the hut, lest + those it contained might be surprised in their sleep. He gave me to + understand that the enemy did not appear to be numerous at that spot, + three or four at most, though it was quite possible, nay highly probable, + that they had separated, and that their whole force was not present at + this miserable scene. + </p> + <p> + It was broad daylight when we came in sight of the hut again, and I + perceived Jaap was up and busy with his pots and kettles near the spring. + No one else was visible, and we inferred that Guert and Dirck were still + on their pallets. We took a long and distrustful survey of the forest + around the cabin, from the height where we stood, ere we ventured to + approach it any nearer. Discovering no signs of danger, and the forest + being quite clear of underbrush or cover of any sort, large trees + excepted, for some distance from the hut, we then advanced without + apprehension. This open character of the woods near our dwelling was felt + to be a very favourable circumstance, rendering it impossible for an enemy + to get very near us by daylight, without being seen. It was owing to the + fact that we had used so much of the smaller timber, in our own + operations, while the negroes had burned most of the underbrush for fuel. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, I found my two friends fast asleep, and certainly much + exposed. When aroused and told all that had occurred to me and the Indian, + their surprise was great, nor was their horror less. Jaap, who, missing us + on rising, supposed we had gone in pursuit of game, had followed us into + the hut, and heard my communications. His indignation was great, at the + idea of one of his own colour's being thus treated, and I heard him vowing + vengeance between his set teeth, in terms that were by no means measured. + </p> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas!” exclaimed Guert, who had now finished dressing, and who + accompanied me out into the open air, “my poor fellow shall be revenged, + if the rifle will do it! Scalped, too, do you say, Corny?” + </p> + <p> + “As far as we could ascertain, suspended as he was from the tree. But, + scalped he must be, as an Indian never permits a dead captive to escape + this mutilation.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have been out in the forest three hours, you tell me, Corny?—You + and Trackless?” + </p> + <p> + “About that time, I should judge. The heart must have been of stone, that + could resist those cries!” + </p> + <p> + “I do not blame you, Littlepage, though it would have been kinder, and + wiser, had you taken your friends with you. We must stick together, in + future, let what may happen. Poor Petrus! I wonder Doortje should have + hinted nothing of that nigger's fate!” + </p> + <p> + We then held a long consultation on the subject of our mode of proceeding, + next. It is unnecessary to dwell on this conference, as its conclusions + will be seen in the events of the narrative; but it was brought to a close + by a very sudden interruption, and that was the sound of an axe in the + forest. The blows came in the direction of the scene of Pete's murder, and + we had collected our rifles, and were preparing to move towards the + suspected point, when we saw Jaap staggering along, coming to the hut, + beneath the load of his friend's body. The fellow had stolen away, unseen, + on this pious duty, and had executed it with success. In a minute or two + he reached the spring, and began to wash away the revolting remains of the + massacre from the head of the Huron's victim. + </p> + <p> + We now ascertained that poor Pete had been badly cut by knives, as well as + scalped, and suspended in the manner related. Both arms appeared to be + dislocated, and the only relief to our feelings, was in the hope that an + attempt to inflict so much suffering must have soon defeated itself. + Guert, in particular, expressed his hope that such was the case, though + the awful sounds of the past night were still too fresh in my ears to + enable me to believe all I could wish on that subject A grave was dug, and + we buried the body at once, rolling a large log or two on the spot, in + order to prevent wild beasts from disinterring it. Jaap worked hard in the + performance of these rites, and Guert Ten Eyck actually repeated the + Lord's Prayer and the Creed over the grave, when the body was placed in + it, with a fervour and earnestness that a little surprised me. + </p> + <p> + “He was but a nigger, Corny, it is true,” said the Albanian, a little + apologetically perhaps, after all was over, “but he was a very goot + nigger, in the first place; then, he had a soul, as well as a white man—Pete + had his merits, as well as a Tominie, and I trust they will not be + forgotten in the last great account. He was an excellent cook, as you must + have seen, and I never knew a nigger that had more of the dog-like + fidelity to his master. The fellow never got into a frolic without coming + honestly to ask leave; though, to be sure, I was not a hard master, in + these particulars, on reasonable occasions.” + </p> + <p> + We next ate our breakfasts, with as much appetite as we could. Shouldering + our packs, and placing all around, and in the hut, as much as possible in + the condition in which we had found the place, we then commenced our + march, Susquesus leading, as usual. + </p> + <p> + We went in quest of the surveyors, who were supposed to be in the + south-east corner of the Patent, employed as usual, and ignorant of all + that had passed. At first, we had thought of discharging our rifles, as + signals to bring them in; but these signals might apprize our enemies, as + well as our friends, of our presence, and the distance was too great, + moreover, to render it probable the reports could be heard by those for + whom alone they would be intended. + </p> + <p> + The route we took was determined by our general knowledge of the quarter + of the Patent in which the surveyors ought now to be, as well as by the + direction in which the body of Pete had been found. The poor fellow was + certainly either going to, or coming from the party, and being in constant + communication with them, he doubtless knew where they were at work. Then + the different trails of the surveyors were easily enough found by + Trackless, and he told us that the most recent led off in the direction I + have named. Towards the south-east, therefore, we held our way, marching, + as before, in Indian file; the Onondago leading, and the negro bringing up + the rear. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Tis too horrible! + The weariest and most loathed worldly life + That age, ache, penury, and imprisonment + Can lay on nature, is a paradise, + To what we fear of death.” + + <i>Measure for Measure.</i> +</pre> + <p> + We were not long in reaching the point of the Patent in which the + surveyors had been at work, after which we could have but little + difficulty in finding their present actual position. The marked trees were + guides that told the whole story of their labours. For an hour and a half, + however, we moved rapidly forward, Susquesus on the lead, silent, earnest, + watchful, and I fear I must add, revengeful. Not a syllable had been + uttered during the whole of that time, though our senses were keenly on + the alert; and we avoided everything like a cover that might conceal an + ambush. Suddenly the Indian halted; at the next instant he was behind a + tree. Each of us imitated him, quick as thought, for this was our previous + training in the event of encountering an enemy; and we all well knew the + importance of a cover in forest warfare. Still, no foe could be seen. + After examining around us in every direction, for a minute or two, and + finding the woods vacant and silent as ever, Guert and I quitted our own + trees, and joined the Trackless, at the foot of his own huge pine. + </p> + <p> + “Why this, Susquesus?” demanded the Albanian, sharply; for he began to + suspect a little acting, got up to magnify the Indian's usefulness; “here + is neither pale-face nor red-skin. Have done with this folly, and let us + go forward.” + </p> + <p> + “No good—warrior been here; p'rhaps gone, p'rhaps no; soon see. Open + eye, and look.” + </p> + <p> + As a gesture accompanied this speech, we did look again, and this time in + the right direction. At the distance of a hundred yards from us was a + chestnut, that might be seen from its roots to its branches. On the + ground, partly concealed by the tree, and partly exposed, was the leg of a + man, placed as the limb would be apt to lie, on the supposition that its + owner lay on his back, asleep. It showed a moccasin, and the usual legging + of an Indian; but the thigh, and all the rest of the frame, was concealed. + The quick eye of the Onondago had caught this small object, even at that + distance, comprehended it at a glance, when he instantly sought a cover, + as described. Guert and I had some difficulty at first, even after it was + pointed out to us, in recognising this object; but it soon became distinct + and intelligible. + </p> + <p> + “Is that a red-skin's leg?” asked Guert, dropping the muzzle of his rifle, + as if about to try his skill on it. + </p> + <p> + “Don't know,” answered the Indian; “got leggin, got moccasin; can't see + colour. Look most pale-face; leg big.” + </p> + <p> + What there was to enable one, at that distance, to distinguish between the + leg of a white man and the leg of an Indian, at first greatly exceeded our + means of conjecturing; but the Onondago explained it, when asked, in his + own usual, sententious manner, by saying: + </p> + <p> + “Toe turn out—Injin turn in—no like, at all. Pale-face big; + Injin no very big.” + </p> + <p> + The first was true enough in walking, and it did seem probable that the + difference might exist in sleep. Guert now declared there was no use in + hesitating any longer; if asleep he would approach the chestnut + cautiously, and capture the stranger, if an Indian, before he could rise; + and if a white man, it must be some one belonging to our own set, who was + taking a nap, probably, after a fatiguing march. Susquesus must have + satisfied himself, by this time, that there was no immediate danger; for + merely saying, “all go together,” he quitted the cover, and led down + towards the chestnut with a rapid but noiseless step. As we moved in a + body all five of us reached the tree at the same instant, where we found + Sam, one of our own hunters, and whom we supposed to be with Mr. Traverse, + stretched on his back, dead; with a wound in his breast that had been + inflicted by a knife. He, too, had been scalped! + </p> + <p> + The looks we exchanged, said all that could be said on the subject of the + gravity of this new discovery. Susquesus, alone, was undisturbed; I rather + think he expected what he found. After examining the body, he seemed + satisfied, simply saying, “kill, last night.” + </p> + <p> + That poor Sam had been dead several hours was pretty certain, and the + circumstance removed all apprehension of any immediate danger from his + destroyers. The ruthless warriors of the woods seldom remained long near + the spot they had desolated, but passed on, like the tornado, or the + tempest. Guert, who was ever prompt when anything was to be done, pointed + to a natural hollow in the earth; one of those cavities that are so common + in the forest, and which are usually attributed to the upturning of trees + in remote ages, and suggested that we should use it as a grave. The body + was accordingly laid in the hole, and we covered it in the best manner we + could; succeeding in placing over it something like a foot deep of light + loam, together with several flat stones; rolling logs on all, as we had + done at the grave of Pete. By this time Guert's feelings were so + thoroughly aroused, that, in addition to the prayer and the creed, which + he again repeated, in a very decorous and devout manner, he concluded the + whole ceremony by a brief address. Nor was Guert anything but serious in + what he did, or said, on either of these solemn occasions; his words, like + his acts, being purely the impulses of a simple mind, which possesses + longings after devotion and scriptural truths, without knowing exactly how + to express them; and this, moreover, in spite of the mere animal + propensities, and gay habits of his physical conformation, and + constitutional tendencies. + </p> + <p> + “Deat', my friends,” said Guert, most seriously, becoming Dutch, as usual, + as he became interested; “Deat' is a sutten visiter. He comes like a thief + in the night, as you must all have often he'rt the Tominie say; and happy + is he whose loins are girlet, and whose lamp is trimmed. Such, I trust, is + the case with each of you; for, it is not to be concealet, that we are + likely to have serious work before us. Here have been Injins, beyont a + question; and they are Injins, too, that are out on the war-path, in + search of English scalps; or, what is of equal importance to Mr. Follock + and myself, Dutch scalps in the pargain; which makes it so much the more + necessary for every man to be on his guart, and to stant up to his work, + when it may come, as the pull-tog stants up to the ox. Got forpit t'at I + should preach revenge over t'e grave of a frient; but the soltier fights + none the worse for knowing t'at he has peen injuret in his feelin's, as + has certainly peen the case with ourselves. Perhaps I ought to say a wort + in behalf of the teat, as this is the last, and only time, that a + fellow-creature will ever have occasion to speak of him. Sam was an + excellent hunter, as his worst enemy must allow; and now he is gone, few + petter remain pehint. He had one weakness, which, stanting over his grave, + an honest man ought not to try to conceal; he dit love liquor; put, in + this, he was not alone. Nevertheless, he was honest; and his wort might + pass where many a man's pont would be wort'less; and I leave him in the + merciful hants of his Creator. My frients, I haf but little more to say, + and that is this—that life is uncertain, and deat' is sure. Samuel + has gone before us, only a little while; and may we all be equally + preparet to meet our great account. Amen.” + </p> + <p> + Did any one smile at this address! Far from it! Singular, disconnected, + and unsophisticated as it may seem to certain persons, it had one great + merit that is not always discernible in the speeches of those who + officiate at the most elaborate funeral rites. Guert was sincere, though + he might not be either logical or very clear. This was apparent in his + countenance, his voice, his whole manner. For myself, I will allow, I saw + nothing particularly out of place, in this address, at the time, nor do I + now regard it as either irreverent or unseasonable. + </p> + <p> + We left the grave of the hunter, in the depths of that interminable + forest, as the ship passes away from the spot on the ocean where she has + dropped her dead. At some future day, perhaps, the plough-share may turn + up the bones, and the husbandman ruminate on the probable fate of the + lonely man, whose remains will then again be brought to the light of day. + As we left the spot, the Indian detained us a moment, to put us on our + guard. + </p> + <p> + “Huron do that,” he said, meaningly—“No see difference, eh? Saw no + hang up like Pete.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true enough, Susquesus,” Guert answered; for Guert, by his age, + his greater familiarity with the woods, his high courage and his personal + prowess, had now assumed, unresistingly on our part, a sort of + chieftainship over us, “Can you tell us the reason, however?” + </p> + <p> + “Muss, you call him, back sore—that all. Know him well; don't love + flog. No Injin love flog.” + </p> + <p> + “And you think, then, Jaap's prisoner has had a hand in this, and that the + war-path is open to revenge as well as public service—that we are + hunted less for our scalps than to put a plaster on the Huron's back?” + </p> + <p> + “Sartain. T'ree canoe go by on lake—t'at Muss, you call him—know + him, well. He no want sleep till back get well. See how he use nigger! + Hang him on tree—only kill pale-face and take away scalp.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you suppose that he made this difference in the treatment of his two + captives, on account of the colour? That he was so cruel to Petrus because + Jaap, another nigger, had flogged him?” + </p> + <p> + “Sartain—just so. Back feel better after t'at. Good for back to hang + nigger. Jaap see, some time.” + </p> + <p> + I will do my fellow the justice to say, that in the way of courage, few + men were his equals. As I have said before, he only feared spooks, or + Dutch ghosts; for the awe he had of me was so blended with love, as not to + deserve the name of fear. In general, unless the weather happened to be + cold, his face was of a deep, glistening black; coffin-colour, as the boys + sometimes called it; but, I observed, notwithstanding his nerve and his + keen desire to be revenged for the cruel treatment bestowed on his + companion and brother, that his skin now assumed a greyish hue, such as is + seen only in hard frosts, as a rule, in the people of his race. It was + evident that the Trackless' manner of speaking had produced an effect, and + I have always thought the impresssion then made on Jaap was of infinite + service to us, by setting in motion, and keeping in lively activity, every + faculty of his mind and body. I had a specimen of this, as we moved off, + Jaap walking for some distance close at my heels, in order to make me the + repository of his griefs and solicitude. + </p> + <p> + “I hopes, Masser Corny, sah,” commenced the negro, “you doesn't t'ink + anyt'ing of what dis here Injin say?” + </p> + <p> + “I think, Jaap, it will be necessary for you to keep you eyes open, and by + no means to fall into the hands of your friend Muss, as you call him, or + he may serve you even worse than he served poor Pete. I hope, too, this + will be warning to you, of the necessity of treating your prisoners + kindly, should you ever make another.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't t'ink, Masser Corny, you consider pretty much, sah. What good it + do a nigger to captivate an Injin, if he let him go ag'in, and don't lick + him little? Only little, Masser Corny. Ebbery t'ing so handy too, sah—rope + all ready, back bare, and feelin' up, like, after such a time in takin' 'e + varmint, sah!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Jaap, what is done, is done, and there is no use in regretting it, + in words. Of one thing, however, you may be certain; no mercy will be + shown <i>you</i>, should this fellow, Muss, be actually out here, on our + heels, and should you be so unfortunate as to fall into his hands.” + </p> + <p> + The negro growled out his discontent, and I could see that his mind was + made up to give stout battle, ere <i>his</i> wool should be disturbed by + the knife of a savage. A moment later, he stepped aside, and respectfully + permitted Dirck to take his proper place, next to me, in the line. + </p> + <p> + We may have proceeded two miles from the spot where we had buried Sam, the + hunter, when on rising a little hillock, the Indian tossed his arm, the + sign that a new discovery was made. This time, however, the gesture was + rather made in exultation than in horror. As he came to a dead halt at the + same instant, we all closed eagerly up, and got an early view of the cause + of this exhibition of feeling. + </p> + <p> + The ground fell away, in a sort of swell, for some distance in our front; + and, the trees being all of the largest size, and totally without + underbrush, the place had somewhat of the appearance of a vast, forest + edifice, to which the canopy of leaves above formed the roof, and the + stems of oaks, lindens, beeches and maples, might be supposed to be the + columns that upheld it. Within this wide, gloomy, yet not unpleasant hall, + a sombre light prevailed, like that which is cast through the casements of + an edifice of the ancient style of architecture, rendering everything + mellow and grave. A spring of sweet water gushed from a rock, and near it + were seated, in a circle, Mr. Traverse and his two chain-bearers, + seemingly taking their morning's meal; or, rather, reclining after it, + with the pail, platters and fragments before them; like men reposing after + appeasing their hunger, and passing a few minutes in idle talk. Tom, the + second hunter and axe-man, lay asleep, a little apart. + </p> + <p> + “Here has been even no alarm, thank Got,” said Guert, cheerfully, “and we + are in time to let them know their danger. I will give the call; it will + sound sweetly to their ears!” + </p> + <p> + “No call,” said Trackless, quickly; “hollow no good, now. Soon get there, + and tell him, in low voice.” + </p> + <p> + As this was clearly prudent, we pushed forward in a body, taking no pains, + however, to conceal our approach, but making somewhat of a measured tread, + with our footsteps. A strange sensation came over me, as we advanced, and + I found that neither of the surveyors stirred! A suspicion of the dread + truth forced itself on my mind; but I can hardly say that the shock was + any the less, when, on getting near, we saw by the pallid countenances, + fixed, glassy eyes, and fallen jaws, that all our friends were dead. The + savage ingenuity of Indians had propped the bodies in reclining positions, + and thrown them into attitudes that had a horrible resemblance to the + species of indulgence that I have just described. + </p> + <p> + “Holy Heaven!” exclaimed Guert, dropping the butt of his rifle on the + ground; “we are too late!” + </p> + <p> + No one else spoke. On removing the caps, it was found that each man had + been scalped, and that all of those, whom we had left a few days before, + proud of their strength and instinct with life, had departed in spirit, + soon to be seen no more. Jumper, the other Indian, alone remained to be + accounted for. Rifle-balls had been at work here, each of the four having + been shot; Mr. Traverse, in no less than three places. + </p> + <p> + I will confess, that a suspicion of the Oneida crossed my mind, now, for + the first time; and I did not scruple to mention it to my companions, as + soon as either of us had power to speak, or listen. + </p> + <p> + “No true,” said Trackless, positively. “Jumper poor Injin—that so—love + rum—no rascal, to kill friend. Musohoeenah warrior to do so. Just + like him. No; Jumper fool—love rum—no bad Injin.” + </p> + <p> + Where, then, was Jumper? He alone, of all whom we had left behind us, + remained to be found. We made a long search for his body, but without any + success. Susquesus examined the trails, and the bodies, and gave it as his + opinion that the surveyor and chain-bearers might have been killed about + three or four hours; and that the murderers, for such, in our eyes, they + who had done the foul deed were to be accounted, had not been away from + the place more than twenty minutes, when we arrived. This might well have + happened, and we not hear the rifles; as the distance from the hut was + several miles; and, two hours before, we must have been not far from the + place where we had passed the night. That the attack occurred after + daylight, was reasonably certain; and, as Pete was surely seized while + alive, some intelligence might have been obtained from him, that directed + the savages to the point where the outlying party would probably be + expecting him. Nevertheless, this, was pretty much conjecture, and we + never knew which victim fell first, or whether the negro was taken at all, + near the spot where he was gibbeted. The infernal cruelty of his + conquerors may have kept him as a prisoner, for some time before the final + catastrophe, and caused them to carry him about with them as a captive, in + order to subject the wretch to as much misery as possible, for, as + Susquesus said, Muss' 'back very sore.' + </p> + <p> + We buried poor Traverse, and his chain-bearers, near the spring, using one + of the same natural hollows in the earth as that in which we had interred + the hunter. On a search, it was ascertained that their arms and ammunition + had been carried off, and that the pockets of the dead men had been + rifled. The American Indian is seldom a thief, in the ordinary sense of + the term; but, he treats the property of those whom he slays as his own. + In this particular, he does not differ materially from the civilized + soldier, I believe, plunder being usually considered as a legitimate + benefit of war. The Hurons had laid their hands on the compass and chains, + for we could discover neither; but they had left the field-book and notes + of Traverse, as things that, to them, were useless. In other respects, the + visit of the savages to this fatal spot left the appearance of having been + hurried. + </p> + <p> + On this occasion, Guert made no attempts at morals, or eloquence. The + shock had disqualified us all for anything of the sort, and we discharged + our duties with the earnest diligence, and grave thoughtfulness, of men + who did not know but the next moment might bring themselves into the midst + of a scene of deadly strife. We worked hard, and a little hastily, and + were soon ready to depart. It was determined, on a hurried consultation, + to follow the trail of the Hurons, as the most certain method of + surprising them, on the one hand, and of preventing them from surprising + us, on the other. The Indian would have no difficulty in pursuing the very + obvious trail that was left, and which bore all the proofs of having been + left by a dozen men. + </p> + <p> + The reader, who is unacquainted with the usages of the American savage, is + not to suppose that this party had moved through the forest, in a + disorderly group, regardless of the nature of the vestiges of their + passage left behind them. The native warrior never does that; usually he + marches in a line of single files, which has obtained the name of Indian + file with us; and, whenever there are strong reasons for concealing his + numbers, it is his practice for each succeeding man to follow, as nearly + as possible, in the footsteps of the warrior who precedes him; thereby + rendering a computation difficult, if not impossible. In this manner our + foes had evidently marched; but Susquesus, who had been busy examining the + marks around the spring, the whole time we were occupied in burying the + dead, gave it as his opinion that our enemies could not number less than a + dozen warriors. This was not very pleasing intelligence, since it would + render success in a conflict next to hopeless. So, at least, I viewed the + matter, though Guert saw things differently. This highly intrepid man + could not find it in his heart to abandon the idea of driving foes so + ruthless out of the country; and, I do believe, he would have faced a + hundred savages at once when we quitted the spring. + </p> + <p> + The Onondago had no difficulty in following the trail, which led us, at + first, for some distance in a line towards Ravensnest, then made a sudden + inclination in the direction of the hut. It was probably owing to this + circuit, and want of settled purpose in the Hurons, that we did not + encounter them on our advance towards the “bloody spring,” as the spot + where Traverse was slain has been subsequently called. + </p> + <p> + It was not long ere we found ourselves quite near our own trail, though, + perhaps fortunately for us, we did not actually strike it. Had our + movement been discovered, doubtless the enemy would have got into our + rear, a position in which Indians are always most formidable. As it was, + however, we possessed that great advantage ourselves, and pursued our way + with so much the greater confidence, knowing full well that danger was + only to be apprehended in our front, the quarter on which all our eyes + were fixed. + </p> + <p> + Although our return-march was swift, it was silent as that of a train of + mourners. Mourners we were, indeed, for it was not possible for human + hearts to be so obdurate as to feel insensible to the amount of misery + that our late companions must have suffered, and to the suddenness of + their fates. No one spoke, and Susquesus had never found us so close on + his heels as we kept ourselves all that morning. The foot of the + file-leader was scarcely out of its place, ere that of his successor + covered the same spot! + </p> + <p> + The trail led us quite close to the hut, which we reached as near as might + be to noon. On approaching the cabin, we used the utmost caution lest our + enemies might then be in it, in ambush. The trail did not extend quite to + the building, however, but diverged in a westerly direction, from a point + that may have been a hundred yards distant from our habitation, though in + full view of it. Here we found the signs of a gathering of the party into + a cluster, and we inferred that a counsel had been held on the subject of + once more going to the hut, or of turning aside to pursue some other + object. Susquesus made a close examination at this spot, and gave it as + his opinion, again, that the hostiles must, at least, number the dozen he + had already mentioned. Leaving us to watch the signs about our dwelling, + from covers we took for that purpose, he followed the trail for half a + mile, in order to make certain it did not approach the log-house on its + opposite side. So far from this proving to be the case, however, he + ascertained that it led off in a straight line towards Ravensnest. This + was, if anything, more unpleasant news to Guert and myself, than if the + Onondago had brought back a confirmation of his first suspicion that the + Hurons might be waiting for us, in our own temporary house. Complaints + were useless, however, and we smothered our apprehensions as well as we + could. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus was not a warrior to confide entirely in the signs of an open + march. Experienced woodsmen frequently left their trails visible expressly + to deceive; and the Onondago, who personally knew Muss, as Jaap called his + prisoner, was fully aware that he had to deal with a profoundly artful + foe. Not satisfied with even what he had seen, he cautioned us about + quitting the cover, except under his guidance, and then commenced a mode + of approach that was purely Indian, and which, in its way, had much of the + merit of the approaches of more civilized besiegers, by means of their + entrenchments and zig-zags. Our advance was regulated in this way. Each + man was told to select the nearest tree that led him towards the hut, and + to pass from the old to the new cover, in as rapid and sudden a manner as + his agility would allow. By observing this precaution, and by using great + activity, we had got within twenty yards of the door of the cabin, in the + course of ten minutes. Guert could not submit to this slow, and, as he + called it, unmanly procedure any longer; but quitting his cover, he now + walked straight and steadily to the door of the cabin, threw it open, and + announced to us that the place was empty. Susquesus made another close + examination around the building, and told us he felt quite certain that + the spot had not been visited since we had left it that morning. That was + grateful intelligence to us all, since it was the only probable clue by + which our enemies could have learned our return to the Patent at all. + </p> + <p> + The question now arose as to future proceedings. Nothing was to be gained + by remaining on the property, while prudence, and the danger of our + friends, united to call us away. We felt it would be a most hazardous + thing to attempt reaching Ravensnest; though we felt it was a hazard we + were bound to incur. While the matter was talked over, those among us who + had any appetite, profited by the halt, to dine. An Indian on a war-path, + is equally ready to eat, or to fast; his powers of endurance, both ways, + more especially when the food is game, amounting to something wonderful. + </p> + <p> + While Susquesus, and Jaap, in particular, were performing their parts in a + very serious manner, in this way, and the rest of us were picking up a few + morsels, more like men whose moral feelings cheeked their physical + propensities, I caught a distant glimpse of a man's form, as it glided + among the trees, at some distance from us. Surprise and awe were so strong + in me, that I did not speak, but pointed with a finger eagerly in the + necessary direction, in order to let the Onondago see the same object too. + Susquesus was not slow in detecting the stranger, however; for I think he + must have seen him, even before he was descried by myself. Instead of + manifesting any emotion, however, the Onondago did not even cease to eat; + but merely nodded his head, and muttered, “Good—now hear news—Jumper + come.” + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, it was Jumper; and his appearance in the flesh, not only + alive, but unharmed, produced a general shout among us as he came in, on + such a long, loping gait, as usually marked a runner's movement. In a + moment he was among us, calm, collected, and without motion. He gave no + salutation, but seated himself quietly on a log, waiting to be questioned, + before he spoke; impatience being a womanly weakness. + </p> + <p> + “Jumper, my honest fellow,” cried Guert, not without emotion, for joy was + struggling powerfully with his organs of speech, “you are heartily + welcome! These devils incarnate, the Hurons, have not injured <i>you</i>, + at least!” + </p> + <p> + Liquor had rendered Jumper's faculties somewhat obtuse, in general, though + he was now perfectly sober. He gave a sort of dull look of recognition at + the speaker, and muttered his answer in a low, sluggish tone: + </p> + <p> + “Plenty Huron,” he said; “clearin' full. Pale-face in fort send Jumper + with message.” + </p> + <p> + We should have overwhelmed the fellow with questions, had he not unfolded + a corner of his calico shirt, and exhibited several letters, each of which + was soon in the hand of the individual to whom it was addressed. Guert, + Dirck, and myself, severally got his communication; while there was a + fourth, in the handwriting of Herman Mordaunt, that bore the + superscription of poor Traverse's name. Subsequent events have placed it + in my power to give copies of all the letters, thus received. My own was + in the following words: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My dearest father is so much occupied, as to desire <i>me</i> to write + you this note. Mr. Bulstrode sent an express, yesterday, who was + bearer of the sad tidings from Ticonderoga. He also announced his + own approach; and we expect him, in a horse-litter, this evening. + Reports are flying about the settlement, that savages have been seen + in our own woods. I endeavour to hope that this is only one of those + idle rumours, of which we have had so many, lately. My father + however, is taking all necessary precautions, and he desires <i>me</i> to + urge on <i>you</i> the necessity of collecting all your party, should you + be again at Mooseridge, and of joining us <i>without delay</i>. We have + heard of your safety, and gallant conduct, through the man sent + forward by Mr. Bulstrode; his master having heard of you all, safe + in a canoe on the lake, the night after the battle, through a Mr. + Lee; a gentleman of great eccentricity of character, though, it is + said, of much talent, with whom papa happens to be acquainted. I + trust this note will find you at your hut, and that we shall see you + all, with the least possible delay. + + “ANNEKE.” + </pre> + <p> + This, certainly, was not a note to appease the longings of a lover; though + I had infinite gratification in seeing the pretty characters that had been + traced by Anne Mordaunt's hand, and of kissing the page over which that + hand must have passed. But, there was a postscript, the part of a letter + in which a woman is said always to give the clearest insight into her true + thoughts. It was in these words, viz.:— + </p> + <p> + “I see that I have underscored the 'me,' where I speak of papa's desire + that <i>I</i> should write to you, in preference to another. We have gone + through one dreadful scene, in company, and, I confess, Corny, I should + feel far happier, if another is to occur, that <i>you</i> and <i>yours</i>, + should be with us, here, behind the defences of this house, than exposed, + as you otherwise might be, in the forest. Come to us, then, I repeat, with + the least possible delay.” + </p> + <p> + This postscript afforded me far more satisfaction than the body of the + note; and I was quite as ready to comply with Anneke's request, as the + dear girl, herself, could be to urge it. Guert's letter was as follows:— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Mr. Mordaunt has commanded Anneke and myself to write to those of + your party, with whom he fancies each has the most influence, to + urge you to come to Ravensnest, as speedily as possible. We have + received most melancholy news; and a panic prevails among the poor + people of this settlement. We learn that Mr. Bulstrode, accompanied + by Mr. Worden, is within a few hours' journey of us, and the + families of the vicinity are coming to us, frightened and weeping. I + do not know that I feel much alarmed, myself; my great dependence is + on a merciful Providence; but, the dread Being on whom I rely, works + through human agents; and, I know of none in whom I can place more + confidence, than on Guert Ten Eyck. + + “MARY WALLACE.” + </pre> + <p> + “By St. Nicholas! Corny, these are such summonses as a man never hesitates + about obeying,” cried Guert, rising, and beginning to replace his + knapsack. “By using great diligence, we may reach the Nest, yet, before + the family goes to bed, and make not only them, but ourselves, so much the + more comfortable and secure.” + </p> + <p> + Guert had a willing auditor, in me; nor was Dirck at all backward about + complying. The letters certainly much quickened our impulses; though, in + fact, there remained nothing else to do; unless, indeed, we intended to + lie out, exposed to all the risks of a vindictive and savage warfare. + Dirck's' letter was from Herman Mordaunt; and it told the truth in plainer + language than it had been related by either of the ladies. Here it is. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Dear Dirck,—The savages are certainly approaching us, my young + kinsman; and it is for the good of us all to unite our forces. Come + in, for God's sake, with your whole party, as speedily as possible. + I have had scouts out, and they have all come in with reports that + the signs of trails, in the forest, abound. I expect, at least a + hundred warriors will be upon us, by to-morrow, and am making my + preparations accordingly. In approaching the Nest, I would advise + you to enter the ravine north of the house, and to keep within its + cover until you get to its southern termination. This will bring you + within a hundred rods of the gate, and greatly increase your chances + of entering, should we happen to be invested when you get here. God + bless you, dear Dirck, and guide you all safely to your friends. + + “HERMAN MORDAUNT. + + “Ravensnest, July 11th, 1758.” + </pre> + <p> + Guert and I read this letter hastily, before we commenced our march. Then, + abandoning the hut, and all it contained, to the mercy of any who might + pass that way, we set off for our point of destination, on a quick step, + carrying little besides our arms, ammunition, and the food that was + necessary to assure our strength. + </p> + <p> + As before, Trackless led, keeping the Jumper a little on his flank; the + danger of encountering foes being now considered to be greatly increased. + It was true, we were still in the rear of the party that had committed the + deeds at Mooseridge; but the Onondago no longer followed its trail; + pursuing a different course, or one that led directly to his object. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “My father had a daughter lov'd a man, + As it might be perhaps, were I a woman, + I should your lordship.” + + <i>Viola</i>. +</pre> + <p> + As the reader must, by this time, have a pretty accurate idea of our + manner of marching in the wilderness, I shall not dwell on this part of + our proceedings any longer. On we went, and at a rapid rate, the guide + having abandoned the common route, which had got to be a pretty visible + trail, and taking another on which, as it appeared to me, he had no other + clue than an instinct. Guert had told Susquesus of the ravine, and how + desirable it was to reach it, getting for an answer a quiet nod of the + head, and a low ejaculation. It was understood, however, that we were to + approach Herman Mordaunt's fortress, by that avenue. + </p> + <p> + It was past the turn of the day when we quitted Mooseridge, and none of us + hoped to reach Ravensnest before dark. It fell out, as we expected, night + drawing its veil over the scene, about half an hour before the Trackless + plunged into the northern, or forest-end of the ravine. Thus far, we had + got no evidence whatever of the proximity of foes. Our march had been + silent, rapid, and watchful, but it proved to be perfectly undisturbed. We + knew, however, that the critical portion of it was still before us; and + just as the sun set, we had made a halt, in order to look to our arms. It + may now be well to say a word or two on the subject of the position of + Herman Mordaunt's 'garrison,' as well as of the adjacent settlement. I + call Ravensnest the 'garrison,' for that is the word which New York custom + has long applied to the fortress itself, as well as those who defend it. + Some critics pretend there is authority to justify the practice, and I see + by the dictionaries that they are not entirely in the wrong. + </p> + <p> + The Nest stood quite half a mile from the nearest point of the forest, a + belt of trees that fringed the margin, and which filled the cavity of the + ravine, excepted. Near it, and in plain sight, was the heart of the + settlement itself, which extended, in an east and west direction, fully + four miles. This area, however, was cleared only in a settlement fashion; + having patches of virgin forest scattered pretty profusely over its + surface. The mill-lot, as Jason's purchase was termed, lay at the most + distant extremity of the view, but, as yet, the axe had not been applied + to it. I had remarked in my last visit to the place, that, standing before + Herman Mordaunt's door, something like a dozen log cabins were to be seen + at a time in different parts of the settlement, and that this number might + have been increased to twenty, by varying the observer's position. + </p> + <p> + Of course, the whole of the open space was more or less disfigured by + stumps, dead and girdled trees, charred stubs, log-heaps, brush, and all + the other unseemly accompaniments of the first eight or ten years of the + existence of a new settlement. This period, in the history of a country, + may be likened to the hobbledehoy condition in ourselves, when we have + lost the graces of childhood, without having attained the finished forms + of men. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt's settlement would have been thought a strong country, in + one sense, for a field fight, had there been men enough to contend with a + hostile party of any force. But, I had heard him say that he had but about + seventeen rifles and muskets that could be in the least relied on, + inasmuch as some of his people were Europeans, and had no knowledge of + fire-arms, while experience had shown that others, on the occurrence of an + alarm, invariably fled to the woods, with their families, instead of + rallying around the settlement colours. Such delinquencies usually take + place, I believe, on all emergencies; love of life being even a stronger + instinct than love of property. Here and there a sturdy fellow, however, + would bar himself in, with a determination to go for the whole, under his + own bark roof; and, occasionally, defences were made that would do credit + to a hero. + </p> + <p> + It should be apparent to those who have any accurate notion of savage + warfare, that the ravine, being, as it was, the only wooded spot near + Herman Mordaunt's fortress, would be the place of all others most likely + to contain an enemy who made his approaches against a garrison, by means + of natural facilities alone. We were aware of this; and Guert, who took an + active command among us, as we drew near to danger, issued his commands + for every man to be on the alert, in order that there might be no + confusion. We were instructed as to the manner of proceeding the moment an + alarm was given; and Guert, who was a capital mimic, had previously taught + us several calls and rallying signals, all of which were good imitations + of the cries of different tenants of the woods, principally birds. These + signals had their origin with the red-man, who often resorted to them, and + were said to be more successfully practised by our own hunters and + riflemen than even by those with whom they originated. + </p> + <p> + On entering the ravine, the order of our march was changed. While + Susquesus and Jumper were still kept in advance, Guert, Dirck, Jaap and + myself moved abreast, and quite close together. The density of the + foliage, and the deep obscurity that prevailed in the bottom of this + dell-like hollow, rendered this precaution necessary. It soon became so + dark, indeed, that our only guide was the brook that gurgled along the + bottom of the ravine, and which we knew issued into the open ground at its + termination, to join a small river that meandered through some natural + meadows to the westward of the Nest, but which, in the language of the + country, was called a 'creek.' This abuse of good old English words, I am + sorry to say, is getting to be only too common among us; yet, I have heard + Americans boast that we speak the language better than the mother country! + That we have no class among us that uses an unintelligible dialect, like + that of Lancashire or Yorkshire, is true enough; and, that we have fewer + persons who use decided vulgarisms, in the way of false grammar, than is + the case in England, may be also accurate; but, it might be well for us to + correct a great many faults into which we have certainly fallen, before we + declaim with so much confidence about the purity of our English. <a + href="#linknote-37" name="linknoteref-37" id="linknoteref-37"><small>37</small></a> + To return to the ravine. + </p> + <p> + We had gone so far in the hollow, dark dell, as to have reached a point + where the faint light of the open ground and the stars in the firmament + became visible to us, when we suddenly found ourselves alongside of the + Trackless and Jumper. These Indians had halted; for their quick, jealous, + eagle-like glances had detected the signs of enemies. Nor was this + discovery very difficult to make, though some pains had actually been + taken to conceal what was going on in our front. A party of some forty + savages, every man of whom was in his war-paint, had lighted a fire + beneath a shelving rock, and were gathered around it at supper. The fire + had already done its duty, and was now merely smouldering, throwing a + faint, flickering light on the dark, fierce features of the group that was + clustered round. We might have approached the spot in any other direction, + without seeing the danger in time to avoid it; but a kind Providence had + carried the two Indians directly to a point where the dying embers + immediately caught their attention, and where they halted as has been + said. I do not think we were more than forty yards from this fearful band + of savages, when they first met my eye; and, hardened as I had certainly + somewhat become, by the service and scenes I had so lately gone through, I + will confess that my blood was a little chilled at the sight. + </p> + <p> + Our conference was in whispers. There we stood, huddled together beneath a + huge oak, the shade of which rendered the darkness that formed our only + safeguard, so much the more intense. So close were we, in fact, that even + Jaap's body was in absolute contact with my own. Susquesus proposed making + a <i>détour</i>, by crossing the brook, which, fortunately, tumbled down + some rocks at this point, making a very favourable noise, and thus pass + our enemies, who would not probably end their meal until we had time to + reach the 'garrison.' To this Guert applied his veto. He was of opinion, + and I have always thought it was the decision of a man born to be a + soldier, that we were exactly in the position we might desire to occupy, + in order to be of great service to the family, and to strike the enemy + with a panic. By attacking, we should certainly surprise the party in our + front, and might make such an impression as would induce them to abandon + the settlement. Both Dirck and myself coincided in this opinion, which + even received the support of Jaap's voice. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sah!—yes, Masser Corny, now 'e time to wengeance poor Pete!” + he muttered, and that rather louder than was thought quite prudent. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the Trackless found how things were going, he and Jumper + prepared for the conflict, as coolly as any of us. Our arrangements were + very simple, and were soon made. We were to deliver a single fire from the + spot where we stood, shout, and charge with the knife and tomahawk. No + time was to be wasted, however; and, instead of remaining near the light, + small as it was, we were to push for the mouth of the ravine, and thence + make the best of our way, singly or in company, as chance should offer, to + the gate of Ravensnest. In a moment we were in open files, and had our + orders. + </p> + <p> + “Remember Traverse!” said Guert, sternly—“remember poor Sam, and all + our murteret frients!” + </p> + <p> + The reader knows that Guert was apt to be very Dutch, when much excited. + We <i>did</i> remember the dead; and I have often thought, but never knew + precisely, that each of us sacrificed a victim to the manes of our lost + companions, on that stern occasion. Our rifles rang, or cracked would be + the better word, almost simultaneously; a yell arose from the savages + around the fire; our own shouts mingled with that yell, and forward we + went, endeavouring to make our numbers appear as if we were a hundred. + </p> + <p> + One retains but very indistinct notions of a charge like that, made as it + was, in the dark, beyond its general characteristics. We swept directly + among the slain and wounded, and I heard Jaap dealing one or two awful + blows on the bodies; but no one opposed us. A moment after we had passed + the smouldering fire, three or four shot were discharged at us, but there + was no sign of their telling on any of our party. The distance from the + fire to the mouth of the ravine, might have been a hundred yards; and the + external light, or lesser darkness may be a better expression, served us + for a guide. Thither we pushed, fast as we could, though by no means in + compact order. + </p> + <p> + For this part of the affair, I can only speak for myself. I saw men moving + swiftly among the trees, and I supposed them to be my companions; but we + had become separated, it being understood that each man was now to shift + for himself. As our rifles were discharged, and there was no time to + reload them, there was little use, indeed, in any halt. Perceiving this, I + did not issue from the ravine at the brook, but clinging more to its side, + left it at a little height above the level of the adjacent plain. Here I + paused to load, the cover being good, and the position every way + favourable. While thus employed, I found time to look around me, and to + ascertain the situation of things in the settlement, so far as the hour + and the obscurity would permit. + </p> + <p> + The plain was glimmering with the remains of a dozen large fires, the + ruins of so many log-houses and barns. Their light amounted to no more + than to render the darkness of the night distinctly visible, and to afford + some small clues to the extent of the ravages that had been already + committed. The house of Ravensnest, however, was untouched. There it + stood, looking dark and gloomy; for, having no external windows, no other + light was to be seen than a single candle, that was probably placed in a + loophole as a signal. Profound stillness reigned in and around the + building, producing a species of mystery that was, in itself, under such + circumstances, an element of force. There was not light enough to + distinguish objects at any distance, and, having reloaded my rifle, I + thought it wisest to make the best of my way to the gate. At that moment, + the stillness in my rear seemed to possess something affirmatively fearful + about it. + </p> + <p> + It was certainly a somewhat hazardous thing to break cover, at such a + moment, and under such circumstances; but it was absolutely necessary to + incur its risks. My first leap carried me half-way down the declivity, and + I was soon on the level land. In my front were two men, one of whom seemed + to me to be in the grasp of the other. As they were moving, though slowly, + in the direction of the house, I ventured to ask 'Who goes there?' + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Corny, my lad, is that you?” answered Guert. “Got be praised! you + seem unhurt, and are just in time to help me along with this Huron, on + whom I blundered in the dark, and have disarmed and captured. Give him a + kick or a push, if you please; for the fellow holds back like a hog.” + </p> + <p> + I had too much knowledge of Indian vindictiveness, however, to adopt the + means recommended; but seizing the captive by one arm, while Guert held + the other, we ran him up to the <i>abbatis</i> that covered the gate of + the “garrison,” with very little difficulty. Here we found Herman Mordaunt + and a dozen of his people, all armed, ready to receive Us. They were in + expectation of our appearance, both on account of the hour, and on account + of the clamour in the ravine, which had been distinctly heard at the + house. In less than a minute everybody was in, safe and unharmed. The fact + was, that our attack had been so sudden as to sweep everything before it, + and the enemy had not time to recover from his panic, before we were all + snugly housed. Once within the gate of Ravensnest we ran no risks, beyond + those which were common to all such log fortresses in the warfare of the + wilderness. + </p> + <p> + It would not be easy for a pen as unskilful as mine, to portray the + change, from the gloom of the ravine, the short but bloody assault, the + shouts, the rush, and the retreat, of the outer world, to the scene of + domestic security we found within the Nest, embellished, as was the last, + by woman's loveliness and graces, and, in many respects, by woman's + elegance. Anneke and her friend received us in a bright, cheerful, + comfortable apartment, that was rendered so much the more attractive by + their tears and their smiles, neither of which were spared. I could see + that both had been dreadfully agitated; but joy restored their colour, and + brought back the smiles to their sweet faces. The situation of the place + was such, perhaps, as to render cheerfulness neither very lasting nor very + lively; but the tenderest female can find her heart suddenly so lightened + from its burthen of apprehensions, as to be able to seem momentarily + happy, even when environed by the horrors of war. Such, in a measure, was + the character of the reception we now received, together with a thousand + thanks for having so promptly answered their letters in person. The dear + creatures had the ingenuity not to seem to ascribe that prompt obedience + to their own requests, which we had manifested, to any care for ourselves, + but solely to a wish to oblige and protect them. The reader will + understand that all explanations still remained to be made, on both sides. + These soon came, however; facts pressing themselves on the attention, at + such times, with a weight that is irresistible. The ice was broken by + Herman Mordaunt's entering the room, and speaking to us, like one who felt + that a great omission had been made. + </p> + <p> + “We had closed the gate, and set the look-out at the loops again,” he + said, “before I ascertained that all your party is not here. I see nothing + of Traverse and his chain-bearers, nor of Sam or Tom, your hunters! + Surely, they are not left behind in the forest?” + </p> + <p> + Neither of us three spoke. Our looks must have told the sad story, for + Herman Mordaunt seemed to understand us on the instant. + </p> + <p> + “No!” he exclaimed—“Can it be possible? Not <i>all</i>, surely!” + </p> + <p> + “<i>All</i>, Mr. Mordaunt, even to my poor slave, Petrus,” answered Guert, + solemnly. “They were set upon, while dispersed, I suppose, and have been + murdered, while we were still absent, on our expedition.” + </p> + <p> + The dear girls clasped their hands, and I thought Anneke's pallid lips + moved, as if in prayer. Her father shook his head, and for some time he + paced the room in silence. Then rousing himself, like one conscious of the + necessity of calmness and exertion, he resumed the discourse. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God, Mr. Bulstrode reached us safely last evening, just after we + despatched the runner; and <i>he</i> is beyond the reach of these demons + for the present!” + </p> + <p> + After this we were enabled to converse more connectedly, exchanging such + statements as enabled each party to understand the precise condition of + the other. We were then carried to Bulstrode's room, for he had expressed + a desire to see us, as soon as we could be spared. Our fellow campaigner + received us in good spirits, for one in his situation, speaking of the + events in front of Ticonderoga sensibly, and without any attempt to + conceal the mortification that he felt, in common with the whole British + empire. His hurt was by no means a bad one; likely to cripple him for a + few weeks, but the leg was in no danger. + </p> + <p> + “I have had the resolution and address, Corny, to work my way into good + quarters, this unexpected siege excepted,” he observed to me, when the + others had withdrawn, leaving us alone. “This rivalry of ours is a + generous one, and may now have fair play. If we quit this Nest of Herman + Mordaunt's without ascertaining the true state of Anneke's feelings, we + shall deserve to be condemned to celibacy for the remainder of our days. + There never were two such opportunities for wooing to advantage!” + </p> + <p> + “I confess our situation does not strike me as being quite as favourable, + Mr. Bulstrode,” I answered. “Anneke must have too many apprehensions on + her own account, and on account of others, to be as sensible to the tender + sentiments of love, as might be the case in the peace and security of + Lilacsbush.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! It is very evident you know nothing of the female sex, Corny, by that + remark. I will grant you, that unwooed previously, and without any + foundation laid, if I may express myself so irreverently, your theory + might turn out to be true; but not so under actual circumstances. Here is + a young lady in her nineteenth year, who knows she is not only sought, but + has long been sought, ay warmly, ardently sought, by two reasonably + unobjectionable young men, placed in the very situation to have all her + sensibilities excited, by one or the other, and, depend on it, the matter + will be determined within this blessed week. If I should prove to be the + fortunate man, I hope to be able to manifest a generous sympathy; and, <i>vice + versâ,</i> I shall expect the same. Though this sad, sad business before + Ty has been a good preparative for humiliation.” + </p> + <p> + I could not avoid smiling at Bulstrode's singular views of our suit; but, + as Anneke was ever with me an engrossing theme, spite of our situation, + which certainly was not particularly appropriate to love, I did not feel + equal to quitting it abruptly. The matter was consequently pursued. As I + asked Bulstrode to explain himself, I got from him the following account + of his theory. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I reason in this wise, Corny. Anneke loves <i>one</i> of us two, + beyond all question. That she <i>loves</i>, I will swear; her blushes, her + beaming eyes, even her beauty is replete with the loveliness of the + sentiment. Now, it is not possible that she should love any other person + than one of us two, for the simple reason that she has no other suitor. I + shall be frank with you, and confess that I think I am the favoured + fellow, while, I dare say, you are just as sanguine and think it is + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “I give you my honour, Major Bulstrode, so presuming, so improper a + thought has never—” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes—I understand all that. You are not worthy of Anne + Mordaunt's love, and therefore have never presumed to imagine that she + could bestow it on such a poor, miserable, worthless, good-for-nothing a + fellow as yourself. I have a great deal of the same very proper feeling; + but, at the same time, each of us is quite confident of his own success, + or he would have given up the pursuit long since.” + </p> + <p> + “I do assure you, Bulstrode, anything but confidence mingles with <i>my</i> + feelings on this subject. <i>You</i> may have reasons for your own + security, but I can boast of none.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no other than self-love, of which every man has a just portion for + his own comfort and peace of mind. I say that hope is indispensable to + love, and hope is allied to confidence. My reasoning on these points is + very simple. And, now for the peculiar advantages we enjoy for bringing + matters to a crisis. In the first place, I am hurt, you will understand; + suffering under an honourable wound, received in open battle, fighting for + king and country. Then, I have been brought fresh from the field, on my + litter, into the presence of my mistress, bearing on my person the + evidence of my risk, and, I hope, of my good conduct. There is not one + woman in a thousand, if she hesitated between us, that would not decide in + my favour, on these grounds alone. You have no notion, Corny, how the + hearts of these sweet, gentle, devoted, generous little American girls + melt to sympathy, and the sufferings of a poor wretch that they know + adores them! Make a nurse of a female, and she is yours, nine times out of + ten. This has been a master-stroke of mine, but I hope you will pardon it. + Stratagems are excusable in love, as in war.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no difficulty in understanding your policy, Bulstrode; though I + confess to some in understanding your frankness. Such as it is, however, I + trust you feel certain it will not be abused. Now, as to my situation, + what peculiar countervailing advantages do I enjoy?” + </p> + <p> + “Those of a defender. Oh, <i>that</i> is a battering-ram of itself! This + confounded assault on the settlement, which they tell me is rather + serious, and may keep alive apprehensions for some days yet, is a most + unlucky thing for me, while it is of great advantage to you. A wounded man + cannot excite one-half the interest he otherwise might, when there is a + chance that others may be slain, every minute. Then, the character of a + defender is a great deal; and being a generous rival, as I have always + told you, Corny, my advice is to make the most of it. I conceal nothing, + and intend to do all I can with my wound.” + </p> + <p> + It was scarcely possible not to laugh at this strangely frank, yet, I + fully believe, strangely sincere communication; for Bulstrode was a + humorist, with all his conventionalism and London notions, and was more + addicted to saying precisely what he thought, than is common with men of + his class. After sitting and chatting with him half an hour longer, on the + subject of the late military operations, of which he spoke with both + feeling and good sense, I took my leave for the night. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, Corny,” he said, squeezing my hand, as I left him; + “improve the opportunity in your own way, for I assure you I shall do it + in mine. It is present valour against past valour. If it were not my own + case that is concerned, there is not a man living to whom I should more + freely wish success.” + </p> + <p> + And I believe Bulstrode did not exceed the truth in his declarations. That + I should succeed with Anneke, he did not think, as was apparent to me by + his general manner, and the consciousness he must have possessed of his + own advantages in the way of rank and fortune, as well as in having Herman + Mordaunt's good wishes. Oddly enough, in quitting my rival, and under + circumstances so very peculiar, I was accidentally thrown into the + presence of my mistress, and that, too, alone! Anneke was the sole + occupant of the little room in which the girls habitually staid, when I + returned to it; Guert having managed to induce Mary Wallace to walk with + him in the court, the only place the ladies now possessed for exercise; + while Herman Mordaunt, Mr. Worden, and Dirck, were together in the + public-room, making some arrangement with the confused body of the + settlers, who had crowded into the Nest, for the night-watch. I shall not + stop to express the delight I felt at finding Anneke there; nor was it in + any degree diminished, as I met the soft expression of her sweet eyes, and + saw the blushes that suffused her cheek. The conversation I had just held, + doubtless, had its effect; for I determined, at once, that so favourable + an occasion for pressing my suit should not be lost. I was goaded on, if + the truth must be told, by apprehension of Bulstrode's wound. + </p> + <p> + What I said precisely, in the commencement of that interview, is more than + I could record, did I think it would redound to my advantage, as I fear it + would not; but I made myself understood, which is more, I fancy, than + happens to all lovers in such scenes. At first I was confused and a little + incoherent, I suspect; but feeling so far got the better of these defects, + as to enable me to utter what I wished to express. Towards the end, if I + spoke in the least as warmly and distinctly as I felt, there must have + been some slight touch of eloquence about my manner and language. This + being the first occasion, too, on which I had ever had an opportunity of + urging my suit very directly, there was so much to be said, so many things + to be explained, and so many seemingly slighted occasions to account for, + that Anneke had little else to do, for the first ten minutes, but to + listen. I have always ascribed the self-possession which my companion was + enabled to command during the remainder of this interview, to the time + that was thus accorded her to rally her thoughts. + </p> + <p> + Dear, precious Anneke! How admirably did she behave that memorable night! + It was certainly an extraordinary situation in which to speak of love; + yet, I much question if the feelings be not more likely to be true and + natural at such times, than when circumstances admit of more of the + expedients of every-day life. I could see that my sweet listener was + touched, from the moment I commenced, and that her countenance betrayed a + tender interest in what I said. Presuming on this, or encouraged by her + blushes and her downcast eyes, I ventured to take a hand, and perceived I + was not repulsed. Then it was that I found words, that actually brought + tears to my companion's eyes, and Anneke was enabled to answer me. + </p> + <p> + “This is so unusual—so extraordinary a time to speak of such things, + Corny,” she said, “that I hardly know what ought to be my reply. Of one + thing, however, I feel certain; persons surrounded as we are by dangers + that may, at any instant, involve our destruction, have an unusual demand + on them for sincerity. Affectation, I hope, I am never much addicted to, + and prudery I know <i>you</i> would condemn. I have a feeling uppermost, + at this instant, that I wish to express, yet scarce know how—” + </p> + <p> + “Do not suppress it, beloved Anneke; be as generous as I am certain you + are sincere.” + </p> + <p> + “Corny, it is this. I know we are in danger—very great danger of + being overcome; captured, perhaps slain, by the ruthless beings who are + prowling around our dwelling, and that no one in this house can count on a + single day of existence even with the ordinary vain security of man. Now, + should anything befall <i>you</i>, after this, and I survive you, I should + survive for the remainder of my days to mourn your loss, and to feel the + keenest regrets that I had hesitated to own how much interest I have long + felt in you, and how happy I have been with the consciousness of the + preference that you so frankly and honestly avowed in my favour, months + ago.” + </p> + <p> + As the tears, as well as blushes of Anneke, accompanied these admissions, + it was not possible for me to doubt what I heard. From that moment, a + world of confidence, and a flow of pure, sweet, strong, natural feeling, + bound us more and more closely together. Guert was in a happy mood to + detain Mary Wallace, and business greatly befriended me, as respected the + others. More than an hour had I Anne Mordaunt all to myself; and when the + heart is open, how much can be uttered and understood, on such a subject + as love, in an hour of unreserved confidence, and of strong feeling! + Anneke admitted to me, before we separated, that she had often thought of + the chivalrous boy, who had volunteered to do battle in her behalf, when + she was little more than a child herself, and thought of him as a + generous-minded girl would be apt to think of a lad, under the + circumstances. This very early preference had been much quickened and + increased by the affair of the lion, and our subsequent intercourse. + Bulstrode, that formidable, encouraged rival, encouraged by her father if + not by herself, had never interested her in the least, beyond the feeling + natural to the affinity of blood; and I might have spared myself many + hours of anxious concern, on his account, could I only have seen what was + now so unreservedly told to me. Poor Bulstrode! a feeling of commiseration + came over me, as I listened to my companion's assurances that he had never + in the least touched her heart, while, at the same time, blushing very + red, she confessed my own power over it. An expression to this effect even + escaped her aloud— + </p> + <p> + “Have no concern on Mr. Bulstrode's account, Corny,” Anneke answered, + smiling archly, like one who had well weighed the pros and cons of the + whole subject, in her own mind; “he may be a little mortified, but his + fancy will soon be forgotten in rejoicing that he had not yielded to a + passing inclination, and connected himself with a young, inexperienced + American girl, who is hardly suited to move in the circles in which his + wife must live—I do believe Mr. Bulstrode prefers me, just now, to + any other female he may tappen to know; but his attachment, if it deserve + the name, has not the heart in it, dear Corny, that I know is to be found + in your's. We women are said to be quick in discovering when we are really + loved, and I confess that my own little experience inclines me to believe + that the remark does us no more than justice.” + </p> + <p> + I then spoke of Guert, and expressed a hope that his sincere, obvious, + manly devotion, might finally touch her heart, and that my new friend, + towards whom, however, I began already to feel as towards an old friend, + might finally meet with a return for a passion that I was persuaded was as + deep and as sincere as my own; a comparison that I felt was as strong as + any I could make in Guert's behalf. + </p> + <p> + “On this subject, you are not to expect me to say much, Corny,” answered + Anneke, smiling. “Every woman is the mistress of her own secrets on such a + subject; and, did I know fully Mary Wallace's mind or wishes in reference + to Mr. Ten Eyck, as I do not profess to know either, I should not feel at + liberty to betray her, even to you. I have no longer any secret of my own, + as respects Corny Littlepage, but must not be expected to be as weak in + betraying my whole sex, as I have been in betraying myself!” + </p> + <p> + I was obliged to be satisfied with this sweet admission and with the + knowledge that I had been long loved. When Anneke left me, which, at the + expiration of more than an hour, she insisted on doing, under the + consciousness of all that had passed between us, I had a good deal of + difficulty in believing that I was not dreaming. This <i>ecclaircissement</i> + was so sudden, so totally unexpected I fancy to us both, that well might + it so seem to either; yet, I fancy we did not part without a deep + conviction that both were happier than when we met. I solemnly declare, + notwithstanding, that I felt sorrow, almost regret, on behalf of + Bulstrode. The poor fellow had been so evidently confident of success, + only an hour or two before, that I could not have acquainted him with my + own success, had he been up, and able to prefer his own suit; in his + actual situation, such a procedure would have appeared brutal. + </p> + <p> + As for Guert Ten Eyck, he rejoined me sadder and more despairing than + ever. + </p> + <p> + “It struck me, Corny, that if Mary Wallace had the smallest inclination in + my behalf, she would manifest it at a moment when we may all be said to be + hanging between life and deaf. I have often heard it said that the woman + who would trifle with a young fellow at a ball, or on a sleigh-ride, and + use him like a dog, while every one was laughing and making merry, would + come round like one of the weather-cocks on our Dutch barns, at a shift of + the wind, the instant that distress or unhappiness alighted on her suitor. + In other worts, that the very girl who would be capricious and uncertain, + in happiness and prosperity, would suddenly become tender and truthful, as + soon as sorrow touched the man who wished to have her. On the strength of + this, then, I thought I would urge Mary, to the best of my poor abilities, + and you know they are no great matter, Corny, to give me only a glimmering + of hope; but without success. Not a syllable more could I get out of her + than that the time was unseasonable to talk of such things; and I do think + I should be ready to go and meet these Huron devils, hand to hand, were it + not for the fact that the very girl who thus remonstrated, staid with me + quite two hours, listening to what I had to say, though I spoke of nothing + else. There was a crumb of comfort in that, lad, or I do not understand + human nature.” + </p> + <p> + There was, truly. Still, I could not but compare Anne Mordaunt's generous + confessions, under the influence of the same facts, and fancy that the + prospects of the simple-minded, warm-hearted, manly young Albanian, were + far less flattering than my own. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="linknote-37" id="linknote-37"> </a> + </p> + <p class="foot"> + 37 (<a href="#linknoteref-37">return</a>)<br /> [ It is <i>northern</i> + American, to call a small 'lake' a 'pond,' a small 'river' a 'creek,' even + though it should be an 'outlet,' instead of an 'inlet,' &c. &c. It + is a more difficult thing than is commonly supposed, to make two great + nations, each of which is disposed to innovate, speak the same language + with precise uniformity. The Manhattanese, who have probably fewer of the + peculiarities of the inhabitants of a capital than the population of any + other town in the world of four hundred thousand souls, the consequences + of a rapid growth, and of a people who have come principally from the + country are much addicted to introducing new significations for words, + which arise from their own provincial habits. In Manhattanese parlance, + for instance, a 'square' is a 'park,' or, even a 'garden' is a 'park.' A + promenade, on the water, is a 'battery!' It is a pity that, in this humour + for change, they have not thought of altering the complex and imitative + mine of their town.—EDITOR.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Between two worlds life hovers like a star, + 'Twixt night and morn, upon the horizon's verge: + How little do we know that which we are! + How less what we may be! The eternal surge + Of time and tide rolls on, and bears afar + Our bubbles: as the old burst, new emerge, + Lashed from the foam of ages; while the graves + Of empires heave but like some passing wave.” + + BYRON. +</pre> + <p> + It was now announced by Herman Mordaunt in person, that the watch was set + for the night, and that each man might seek his rest. The crowded state of + the Nest was such, as to render it no easy matter to find a place in which + to sleep, straw being our only beds. At length we found our pallets, such + as they were; and, spite of all that had passed that evening, truth + compels me to admit that I was soon in a profound sleep. There was no + exception to this rule among the Mooseridge party, I believe, fatigue + proving to to be more powerful, than either successful love, unsuccessful + love, or personal apprehension. + </p> + <p> + It was about three o'clock, when I felt a significant pressure of the arm, + such as one gives when he especially wishes to attract attention. It was + Jason Newcome, employed in awakening the men of the house, without giving + such an alarm as might reach the ears without. In a few minutes everybody + was up and armed. + </p> + <p> + As the morning, just before the appearance of light, when sleep is + heaviest, is the hour when savages usually attack, no one was surprised at + these preparations, which were understood to be ordered by Herman + Mordaunt, who was a-foot, and on the look-out himself, at a place + favourable to observation. In the mean time, we men, three or + four-and-twenty in all, assembled in the court, in waiting for a summons + to the gate, or the loop. Jason had executed his trust so dexterously, + that neither female nor child knew anything of our movement; all sleeping, + or seeming to sleep in the security of a peaceful home. I took an occasion + to compliment the ex-pedagogue and new miller, on the skill he had shown; + and we fell into a low discourse, in consequence. + </p> + <p> + “I have been thinking that this warfare may put a new face on these + settlements, Corny,” continued Jason, after we had conversed some little + time, “more especially as to the titles.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot see how they are to be affected, Mr. Newcome, unless the French + should happen to conquer the colony, a thing not very likely to happen.” + </p> + <p> + “That's just it; exactly what I mean, as to principle. Have not these + Hurons conquered this particular settlement? I say they have. They are in + possession of the whull of it, this house excepted; and it appears to me + that if we ever get re-possession, it will be by another conquest. Now, + what I want to know is this—does not conquest give the conquerors a + right to the conquered territory? I have no books here, yet; but I'm + dreadful forgetful, or I <i>have</i> read that such is the law.” + </p> + <p> + I may say that this was the first direct demonstration that Jason ever + made on the property of Herman Mordaunt. Since that time he has made many + more, some of which I, or he who may be called on to continue this + narrative, will probably relate; but I wish to record, here, this as the + first in a long series of attempts which Jason Newcome has practised, in + order to transfer the fee-simple of the mill-lot at Ravensnest, from the + ownership of those in whom it is vested by law, to that of his own humble, + but meritorious person. + </p> + <p> + I had little time to answer this very singular sort of reasoning; for, + just then, Herman Mordaunt appeared among us, and gave us serious duty to + perform. The explanations with which his orders were preceded, were these. + As had been anticipated, the Indians had adopted the only means that could + prove effective against such a fortress as the Nest without the aid of + artillery. They were making their preparations to set the building on + fire, and had been busy all night in collecting a large amount of + pine-knots, roots, &c., which they had succeeded in piling against the + outer logs, at the point where one wing touched the cliff, and where the + formation of the ground enabled them to approach the building without + incurring much risk. Their mode of proceeding is worthy of being related. + One of the boldest and most skilful of their number had crept to the spot, + and posted himself so close to the logs as to be safe from observation, as + well as reasonably safe from shot. His associates had then extended to him + one end of a long pole, they standing below, some on a shelf of the cliff, + and the rest on the ground; all being safe from harm so long as they kept + close to their respective covers. Thus disposed, these children of the + forest passed hours in patient toil, in forwarding by means of a basket, + the knots, and 'other combustibles, up to the warrior, who kept his + position close under the building, and who piled them in the way most + favourable to his object. + </p> + <p> + Susquesus had the merit of discovering the projected attempt, the + arrangements for which had completely escaped the vigilance of the + sentinels. It would seem that the Onondago, aware of the artifices of the + red-man, and acquainted in particular with the personal character of + Jaap's friend. Muss, did not believe the night would go by without some + serious attempt on the house. The side of the cliff was much the weakest + point of the fortress, having no other protection than the natural + obstacles of the rocks, which were not inaccessible, though somewhat + difficult of ascent, and the low picketing, already mentioned. Under such + circumstances, the Indian felt certain the assault would be made on that + side. Placing himself on watch, therefore, he discovered the first + attempts of the Hurons, but did not let them be known to Herman Mordaunt, + until they were nearly completed; his reason for the delay being the + impatience of the pale-faces, which would not have suffered the enemy to + accomplish his object, so far as preparations were concerned; the thing of + all others he himself thought to be the most desirable. By allowing the + Hurons to waste their time and strength in making arrangements for an + assault that was foreseen, and which might be met and defeated, a great + advantage was obtained; whereas, by driving them prematurely from an + artifice they were known to be engaged in, they would have recourse to + another, and the difficulty of discovery would be added to our other + disadvantages. So Susquesus reasoned, as was said at the time; and it is + certain that so he acted. + </p> + <p> + But, the time had come to meet these covert preparations Herman Mordaunt + now held a consultation, on the subject of our proceedings. The question + submitted was, whether we ought to let the Hurons go any further; whether + we should shoot the adventurous savage who was known still to be posted + under the logs of the house, and scatter his pile of knots, by a sortie; + or, whether it were wiser to let the enemy proceed to the extremity of + actually lighting his fire, before we unmasked. Something was to be said + in favour of each plan. By shooting the savage who had made a lodgment + under our walls, and scattering his pile, we should unquestionably defeat + the present attempt; but, in all probability, another would be made the + succeeding night; whereas, by waiting to the last moment, such an + effectual repulse might be given to our foes, as would at once terminate + their expedition. + </p> + <p> + On consultation, and weighing all the points as they offered, it was + decided to adopt the latter policy. But one spot commanded a view of the + pile at all, and that was a loop, that had been cut only the day before, + and which looked directly down on the place, from a projection that + existed in the second story, and which ran around the whole building. + These projections were common enough, in the architecture of the provinces + at that day, being often adopted in exposed positions, purposely to afford + the means of protecting the inferior and external portions of the + dwellings. The Nest possessed this advantage, though the loops necessary + to complete the arrangement, had only quite recently been cut. At this + loop, then, I stationed myself, for a short time, watching what was going + on below. The night was dark, but there was no difficulty, in + distinguishing the pile of knots, which to me seemed several feet high, + besides being of some length, or in noting the movements of the Indian who + had built it. At the moment I took my stand at the loop, this man was + actually engaged in setting fire to his combustibles. + </p> + <p> + For several minutes Guert and I watched our enemy while he was thus + employed, for the Huron was obliged to proceed with the utmost caution, + lest a light prematurely shed around should betray him. He cautiously + lighted his knots quite within the pile, having left a place for that + purpose; and his combustibles were well in flames before the latter began + to throw their rays to any distance. We had a quantity of water provided + in the room from which we beheld all these movements, and might at any + time have extinguished the fire, by pouring a stream through our loop, + provided we did not wait too long. But Guert objected to 'spoiling the + sport,' as he called it, insisting that the logs of the house would be + slow to ignite, and that we might at any moment scatter the knots, by a + rapid sortie. His wish was to let the enemy proceed in his designs, as far + as would be at all safe, in order to render his defeat more overwhelming. + </p> + <p> + Owing to our position, directly over his head, we had no chance to see the + face of the incendiary while he was thus engaged. At length he cast a + glance upward, as if to note the effect of the flames, which were + beginning to throw their forked tongues above the pile, when we both + recognised Jaap's prisoner, Muss. The sight proved too much for Guert's + philosophy, and thrusting the muzzle of his rifle through the loop, he + blazed away at him, without much regard to aim. This report was a sort of + signal for action, the whole house, and all the outer, world appearing to + be in a clamour in an instant. I had no means of seeing Muss, but some of + our look-outs, who had him in view most of the time, told me, after all + was over, that the fellow seemed much astonished at the suddenness of this + assault; that he gazed up at the loop an instant, uttered a loud + exclamation, then yelled the war-whoop at the top of his voice, and went + bounding off into the darkness, like a buck put up unexpectedly from his + lair. The fields all around the Nest seemed to be alive with whooping + demons. Herman Mordaunt had done little towards embellishing the place; + and stumps were standing in hundreds all about it, many having been left + within twenty yards of the buildings. It now seemed as if every one of + these stumps had an Indian warrior lodged behind it, while bands of them + appeared to be leaping about in the gloom, under the rocks. At one time, I + fancied we must be surrounded by hundreds of these ruthless foes, though I + now suppose that their numbers were magnified by their activity and their + infernal yells. They manifested no intention to attack, nevertheless, but + kept screaming around us in all directions, occasionally discharging a + rifle, but, as a whole, waiting the moment when the flames should have + done their work. + </p> + <p> + Considering the fearful circumstances in which he was placed, Herman + Mordaunt was wonderfully collected. For myself, I felt as if I had fifty + lives to lose, Anneke being, uppermost in my thoughts. The females, + however, behaved uncommonly well; making no noise, and using all the + self-command they could assume, in order not to distract the exertions of + their husbands and friends. Some of the wives of the sturdy settlers, + indeed, actually exhibited a species of stern courage that would have done + credit to soldiers; appearing in the court, armed, and otherwise rendering + themselves useful. It often happened that women of this class, by + practising on deer, and wolves, and bears, got to be reasonably expert + with fire-arms, and did good service in attacks on their dwellings. I + remarked, in all the commoner class of females, that night, a sort of + fierce hostility to their savage foes, in whom they doubtless saw only the + murderers of children, and wretches who made no distinction of sex or age, + in pursuing their heartless warfare. Many of them appeared like the dams + of the inferior animals when their young were in danger. + </p> + <p> + An interval of ten or fifteen minutes must have occurred between the + moment when Guert discharged his rifle and that in which the battle really + began. All this time the fire was gathering head, our tardy attempts to + extinguish it proving a complete failure. But little apprehension was felt + on this account, however, the flames proving an advantage, by casting + their light far into the fields, and even below the rocks, while they did + not reach the court at all; thus placing a portion of the enemy, should + they venture to attack, under a bright light, while it left us in + darkness. The only point, however, at which we could fear a serious + assault, was on the side of the rocks, where the court had no other + protection than the low, but close and tolerably strong picket. + Fortunately, the formation of the ground on that side prevented one who + stood on the meadows below from firing into the court from any point + within the ordinary range of the rifle. It was this circumstance that had + determined the site of the garrison. + </p> + <p> + Such was the state of things when Anneke's own girl came to ask me to go + to her mistress, if it were possible for me to quit my station, were it + only for a minute. Having no particular duty to perform, there was no + impropriety in complying with a request which, in itself, was every way so + grateful to my feelings. Guert was near me at the time, and heard what the + young negress said; this induced him to inquire if there was no message + for himself; but, even at that serious moment, Mary Wallace did not + relent. She had been kinder than common in manner, the previous night, as + the Albanian had admitted; but, at the same time, she had appeared to + distrust her own resolution so much, as even to give less direct + encouragement than had actually escaped her on previous occasions. + </p> + <p> + I found Anneke expecting me in that little parlour where I had so recently + listened to her sweet confessions of tenderness the evening before. She + was alone, the instinct of her sex teaching her the expediency of having + no witness of the feelings and language that might escape two hearts that + were united as were ours, under circumstances so trying. The dear girl was + pale as death when I entered; she had doubtless been thinking of the + approaching conflict, and of what might be its frightful consequences; + but, my presence instantly caused her face to be suffused with blushes, it + being impossible for her sensitive mind not to revert to what had so + lately occurred. This truth to the instinctive principle of her nature + could hardly be extinguished in woman, even at the stake itself. + Notwithstanding the liveliness and varying character of her feelings, + Anneke was the first to speak. + </p> + <p> + “I have sent for you, Corny,” she said, laying a hand on her heart, as if + to quiet its throbbings, “to say one word in the way of caution—I + hope it is not wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “You <i>can</i> do nothing wrong, beloved Anneke,” I answered; “or, + nothing that would seem so in my eyes. Be not thus agitated. Your fears + have increased the danger, which we consider as trifling. The risks Guert, + Dirck, and myself have already run, are tenfold those which now beset us.” + </p> + <p> + The dear girl submitted to have an arm of mine passed around her waist, + when her head dropped on my breast, and she burst into tears. Enabled by + this relief to command her feelings a little, it was not long ere Anneke + raised herself from the endearing embrace I felt impelled to give her, + though still permitting me to hold both her hands; and she looked up into + my face, with the full confidence of affection, renewing the discourse. + </p> + <p> + “I could not suffer you to engage in this terrible scene, Corny,” she + said, “without one word, one look, one sign of the interest I feel in you. + My dear, dear father has heard all; and, though disappointed, he does not + disapprove. You know how warmly he has wished Mr. Bulstrode for a son, and + can excuse that preference; but he desired me, not ten minutes since, as + he left me, after giving me a kiss and his blessing, to send for you, and + to say that he shall hereafter look upon you as my and his choice. Heaven + alone knows whether we are to be permitted to meet again, dear Corny; but, + should that never be granted us, I feel it will relieve your mind to know + that we shall meet as the members of one family.” + </p> + <p> + “We are the only children of our parents, Anneke, and our union will + gladden their hearts almost as much as it can gladden our own.” + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of this, already. I shall have a mother, now; a blessing I + hardly ever knew!” + </p> + <p> + “And one that will dearly, dearly love you, as I know by her own opinions, + again and again expressed in my presence.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Corny—and thanks to that respected parent, too. Now, go, + Corny; I am fearful this selfish gratification only adds to the danger of + the house—go; I will pray for your safety.” + </p> + <p> + “One word, dearest;—poor Guert!—You cannot know how + disappointed he is, that I alone should be summoned here, at such a + moment.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke seemed thoughtful, and it struck me she was a little distressed. + </p> + <p> + “What can I do to alter this?” she said, after a short pause. “A woman's + judgment and her feelings may not impel her the same way; then Mary + Wallace is a girl who appreciates propriety so highly!” + </p> + <p> + “I understand you, Anneke. But, Guert is of so noble a disposition, and + acknowledges all his defects so meekly, and with so much candour! Man + cannot love woman better than he loves Mary Wallace. Her extreme prudence + is a virtue, in his eyes, even while he suffers by it.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot change Mary Wallace's nature, Corny,” said Anneke, smiling + sadly, and, as I fancied, in a way that said 'were it I, the virtues of + Guert should soon outweigh his defects;' “but Mary will be Mary, and we + must submit. Perhaps to-morrow may bring her wavering mind to something + like decision; for these late events have proved greatly Mr. Ten Eyck's + friends. But Mary is an orphan, and prudence has been taught her as her + great protection. Now, go, Corny, lest you be missed.” + </p> + <p> + The dear girl parted from me hurriedly, but not without strong + manifestation of feeling. I folded her to my heart; that being no moment + for affectations or conventional distance; and I know <i>I</i> was, while + I trusted Anneke might be, none the less happy for remembering we had + exchanged these proofs of mutual attachment. + </p> + <p> + Just as I reached the court, I heard a yell without, which my experience + before Ty had taught me was the whoop the Hurons give when they attack. A + rattling fire succeeded, and we were instantly engaged in a hot conflict. + Our people fought under one advantage, which more than counter-balanced + the disadvantage of their inferiority in numbers. While two sides of the + buildings, including that of the meadows, or the one on which an assault + could alone be successful, were in bright light, the court still remained + sufficiently dark to answer all the purposes of defence. We could see each + other, but could not be distinguished at any distance. Our persons, when + seen from without, must have been confounded, too, with the waving shadows + of the pickets. + </p> + <p> + As I approached the pickets, through the openings of which our people were + already keeping up a dropping fire on the dark-looking demons who were + leaping about on the meadows below, I learned from Herman Mordaunt, + himself, who received me by an affectionate squeeze of the hand, that a + large body of the enemy was collected directly under the rocks, and that + Guert had assumed the duty of dislodging them. He had taken with him, on + this service, Dirck, Jaap, and three or four more of the best men, + including both of our Indians. The manner in which he proposed to effect + this object was bold, and like the character of the leader of the party. + As so much depended on it, and on its success, I will explain a few of its + more essential details. + </p> + <p> + The front of the house ranged north and south, facing westward. The two + wings, consequently, extended east and west. The fire had been built at + the verge of the cliff, and at the north-east angle of the building. This + placed the north and east sides of the square in light, while it left the + west and south in deep darkness. The gate opening to the west, it was not + a very hopeless thing to believe it practicable to lead a small party + round the south-west angle of the house, to the verge of the cliff, where + the formation of the ground would allow of a volley's being given upon + those savages who were believed to be making a lodgment directly beneath + our pickets, with a view of seizing a favourable moment to scale them. On + this errand, then, Herman Mordaunt now gave me to understand my friends + had gone. + </p> + <p> + “Who guards the gate, the while?” I asked, almost instinctively. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Worden, and your old acquaintance and my new tenant, Newcome. They + are both armed, for a parson will not only fight the battles of the + spirit, but he will fight those of the field, when concerned. Mr. Worden + has shown himself a man in all this business.” + </p> + <p> + Without replying, I left Herman Mordaunt, and proceeded to the gate + myself, since there was little to be done in the court. <i>There</i> we + were strong enough; stronger, perhaps, than was necessary; but I greatly + distrusted Guert's scheme, the guard at the gate, and most of all the + fire. + </p> + <p> + I was soon at Mr. Worden's side. There the reverend gentleman was, sure + enough, with Jason Newcome at his elbow. Their duty was to keep the gate + in that precise condition in which it could be barred, or unbarred, at the + shortest notice, as friends or foes might seek admission. The parties + appeared to be fully aware of the importance of the trust they filled, and + I asked permission to pass out. My first object was the fire, for it + struck me Herman Mordaunt felt too much confidence in his means of + extinguishing it, and that our security had been neglected in that + quarter. I was no sooner outside the buildings, therefore, than I turned + to steal along the wall to the north-west corner, where alone I could get + a view of the dangerous pile. + </p> + <p> + The brightness of the glare that was gleaming over the fields and stumps, + that came within the compass of the light from the fire, added to my + security by the contrast, though it did not tell well for that particular + source of danger. The dark stumps, many of which were charred by the fires + of the clearing, and were absolutely black, seemed to be dancing about in + the fields, under the waving light, and twice I paused to meet imaginary + savages ere I had gained the corner of the house. Each alarm, however, was + idle, and I succeeded in obtaining the desired view. Not only were the + knots burning fiercely, but a large sheet of flame was clinging to the + logs of the house, menacing us with a speedy conflagration. The danger + would have been greater, but a thunder-shower had passed over the + settlement only an hour before we were alarmed, and coming from the north, + all that side of the house had been well drenched with rain. This occurred + after 'Muss' had commenced his pile, or he might have chosen another side + of the building. The deep obscurity of that gust, however, was probably + one of the means of his success. He must have been at work during the + whole continuance of the storm. + </p> + <p> + I was not absent from the gate two minutes. That brief space was + sufficient for my first purpose. I now desired Jason to enter the court, + and to tell Herman Mordaunt not to delay a moment in applying the means + for extinguishing the flames. There was greater danger from them than + there possibly could be from any other attack upon the pickets, made in + the darkness of the morning. Jason was cool by temperament, and he was a + good agent to be employed on such a duty. Promising to be quick, he left + us, and I turned my face towards Guert and his party. As yet, nothing had + been heard of the last. This very silence was a source of alarm, though it + was difficult to imagine the adventurer had met with an enemy, since such + a collision must have been somewhat noisy. A few spattering shot, all of + which came from the west side of the buildings, and the flickering light + of the fire, were the only interruptions to the otherwise death-like calm + of the hour. + </p> + <p> + The same success attended me in reaching the south-west as in reaching the + north-west angle of the house. To me, it seemed as if the savages had + entirely abandoned the fields in my vicinity. When I took my stand at this + corner of the building, I found all its southern side in obscurity, though + sufficient light was gleaming over the meadows to render the ragged edges + of the cliff visible in that direction. I looked along the log walls to + this streak of light, but could see no signs of my friends. I was certain + they were not under the house, and began to apprehend some serious + indiscretion on the part of the bold Albanian. While engaged in + endeavouring to get a clue to Guert's movements, by devouring every dark + object I could perceive with my eyes, I felt an elbow touched lightly, and + saw a savage in his half-naked, fighting attire, at my side. I could see + enough to ascertain this, but could not distinguish faces. I was feeling + for my hunting-knife, when the Trackless's voice stayed my hand. + </p> + <p> + “He wrong”—said the Onondago, with emphasis. “Head too young—hand + good—heart good—head very bad. Too much fire—dark here—much + better.” + </p> + <p> + This characteristic criticism on poor Guert's conduct, served to tell the + whole story. Guert had put himself in a position in which the Onondago had + refused to remain; in other words, he had gone to the verge of the cliff, + where he was exposed to the light of the fire, and where he was + necessarily in danger of being seen. Still, no signs of him were visible, + and I was on the point of moving along the south side of the building, to + the margin of the rocks, when the Trackless again touched my arm, and said + “There!” + </p> + <p> + There our party was, sure enough! It had managed to reach the verge of the + rocks at a salient point, which placed them in an admirable position for + raking the enemy, who were supposed to be climbing to the pickets, with a + view to a sudden spring, but at a dangerous distance from the buildings. + The darkness had been the means of their reaching that point, which was + about a hundred yards from the spot where I had expected to find them, and + admirably placed for the intended object. The whole procedure was so much + like Guert's character, that I could not but admire its boldness, while I + condemned its imprudence. There was, however, no time to join the party, + or to warn its leader of the risks he ran. We, who stood so far in the + rear, could see and fully appreciate all the danger, while he probably did + not. There the whole party of them stood, plainly though darkly drawn in + high relief, against the light beyond, each poising his rifle and making + his dispositions for the volley. Guert was nearest to the verge of the + rocks, actually bending over them; Dirck was close at his side; Jaap just + behind Dirck; Jumper close at Jaap's elbow; and four of the settlers, bold + and hardy men, behind the Oneida. + </p> + <p> + I could scarcely breathe, for painful expectation, when I saw Guert and + his companions thus rising from the earth, bringing their entire figures + in front of the back-ground of light. I could have called out to warn them + of the danger they ran; but it would have done no good, nor was there time + for remonstrances. Guert must have felt he occupied a dangerous position, + and what he did was done very promptly. Ten seconds after I saw the dark + forms, all their rifles were discharged, as it might be at a single crack. + One instant passed, in death-like stillness, through all the fields, and + in the court; then came a volley from among the stumps at a little + distance from our side of the building, and the adventurers on the rocks, + or those that could, rushed towards the gate. Two of the settlers, + however, and the Oneida, I saw fall, myself. The last actually leaped + upward, into the air, and went down the cliff. But Guert, Dirck, Jaap, and + the other two settlers, had moved away. It was at that moment that my ears + were filled with such yells as I had not supposed the human throat could + raise, and all the fields on our side of the house seemed alive with + savages. To render the scene more appalling, that was the precise instant + when the water, previously provided by Herman Mordaunt, fell upon the + flames, and the light vanished, almost as one extinguishes a candle. But + for this providential coincidence, there was scarce a chance for the + escape of one of the adventurers. As it was, rifle followed rifle, from + among the stumps, though it was no longer with any certain aim. + </p> + <p> + The battle had now become a <i>mélée</i>. The savages went leaping and + whooping forward in the darkness, and heavy blows were given and taken. + Guert's clear, manly voice was heard, rising above the clamour, + encouraging his companions to press through the throng of their + assailants, in tones full of confidence. Both the Trackless and myself + discharged our rifles at the foremost of the Hurons, and each certainly + brought down his man; but it was not easy to see what we could do next. To + stand aloof and see my friends borne down by numbers was impossible, + however, and Susquesus and myself fell upon the enemy's rear. This charge + of ours had the appearance of a sortie, and it produced a decided effect + on the result, opening a passage by which Dirck and the two settlers + issued from the throng, and joined us. This was no sooner done, than we + all had to stand at bay, retreating little by little, as we could. The + result would still have been doubtful, even after we had succeeded in + reaching the south-western angle of the building, had it not been for a + forward movement on the part of Herman Mordaunt, at the head of + half-a-dozen of his settlers. This reinforcement came into the affair with + loaded rifles, and a single discharge, given as soon as we were in a line + with our friends, caused our assailants to vanish, as suddenly as they had + appeared. On reflecting on the circumstances of that awful night, in + after-life, I have thought that the force in the rear of the Hurons began + to melt away, even before Herman Mordaunts support was received, leaving + their front weak and unsustained. At any rate, the enemy fled to their + covers, as has just been related, and we entered the gate in a body, + closing and barring it, as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + I can scarcely describe the change that had come over the appearance of + things in that eventful night. The fire was extinguished, even to the + embers, and deep darkness had succeeded to the glimmering, waving red + light of the flames. The yells, and whoops, and screams, and shouts, for + our men had frequently thrown back the defiance of their foes in cheers, + were done; a stillness as profound as that of the grave reigning over the + whole place. The wounded seemed ashamed even to groan; but our hurt, of + whom there were four, went into the house to be cared for, stern and + silent. No enemy was any longer to be apprehended beneath the pickets, for + the streak of morning was just appearing above the forest, in the east, + and Indians rarely attack under the light of day. In a word, <i>that</i> + night, at least, was passed, and we were yet protected by Providence. + </p> + <p> + Herman Mordaunt now bethought him of ascertaining his precise situation, + the extent of his own loss, and, as far as possible, of that which we had + inflicted on the enemy. Guert was called for, to aid in this inquiry, but + no Guert was to be found! Jaap, too, was absent. A muster was had, and + then it was found that Guert Ten Eyck, Jaap Satanstoe, Gilbert Davis, and + Moses Mudge were all wanting. The Jumper, too, did not appear; but I + accounted for him, and for the two settlers named, having actually seen + them fall. Day returned to us slowly, while agitated by the effect of + these discoveries; but it brought no relief. We soon ventured to re-open + the gates, knowing no Indian would remain very near the building, while it + was light; and, having examined all the dangerous covers, we passed + outside the court with confidence, in quest of the bodies of our friends. + Not an Indian was seen, Jumper excepted. The Oneida lay at the foot of the + rocks, dead, and scalped; as did Davis and Mudge on the summit. Everything + else human had disappeared. Dirck was confident that six or seven of the + Hurons fell by the volley from the cliff, but the bodies had been carried + off. As to Guert and Jaap, no traces of them remained, dead or alive. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “She looked on many a face with vacant eye, + On many a token without knowing what; + She saw them watch her without asking why, + And reck'd not who around her pillow sat; + Not speechless, though she spoke not; not a sigh + Relieved her thoughts: dull silence and quick chat + Were tried in vain by by those who served; she gave + No sign, save breath, of having left the grave.” + + BYRON. +</pre> + <p> + It was a most painful moment to me, when Herman Mordaunt, an hour after + all these facts were established, came to summon me to the presence of + Anneke and Mary Wallace. One gleam of joy, one ray of the sunshine of the + heart, shone on Anneke's sweet countenance as she saw me unharmed enter + the room, but it quickly disappeared in the strong sympathy she felt for + the sufferings of her friend. As for Mary Wallace, death itself could + hardly have left her more colourless, or with features more firmly + impressed with the expression of mental suffering. Anneke was the first to + speak. + </p> + <p> + “God be praised that this dreadful night is passed, and you and my dearest + father are spared!” the precious girl said, with fervour, pressing the + hand that had taken one of hers, in both her own. “For this much, at + least, we can be grateful; would I could add for the safety of us all!” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me the worst at once, Mr. Littlepage,” added Mary Wallace; “I can + bear anything better than uncertainty. Mr. Mordaunt says that you know the + facts better than any one else, and that you must relate them. Speak, + then, though it break my heart to hear it!—is he killed?” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, through Heaven's mercy, not. Indeed, I think not; though I fear + he must be a prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you for that, dear, dear Mr. Littlepage! Oh! Thank you for that, + from the bottom of my heart. But may they not torture him? Do not these + Hurons torture their prisoners? Conceal nothing from me, Corny; you cannot + imagine how much self-command I have, and how well I can behave. Oh! + conceal nothing.” + </p> + <p> + Poor girl! At the very moment she was boasting of her fortitude and + ability to endure, her whole frame was trembling from head to foot, her + face was of the hue of death, and the smile with which she spoke was + frightfully haggard. That pent-up passion, which had so long struggled + with her prudence, could no longer be suppressed. That she really loved + Guert, and that her love would prove stronger than her discretion, I had + not doubted, now, for some months; but, never having before witnessed the + strength of any feeling that had been so long and so painfully suppressed, + I confess that this exhibition of a suffering so intense, in a being so + delicate, so excellent, and so lovely, almost unmanned me. I took Mary + Wallace's hand and led her to a chair, scarce knowing what to say to + relieve her mind. All this time, her eye never turned from mine, as if she + hoped to learn the truth by the aid of the sense of sight alone. How + anxious, jealous, distrustful, and yet beseeching was that gaze! + </p> + <p> + “Will he be tortured?” She rather whispered huskily, than asked aloud. + </p> + <p> + “I trust, by God's mercy, not. They have taken my slave, Jaap, also; and + it is far more probable that <i>he</i> would be the victim, in such a + case, than Mr. Ten Eyck—” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you call him Mr. Ten Eyck? You have always called him Guert of + late—you are his friend—you think well of him—you cannot + be less his friend, now that he is miserable, than when he was happy, and + the pride of all human eyes, in his strength and manly beauty!” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Miss Wallace, compose yourself, I do entreat of you—no one + will cling to Guert longer than I.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I have always thought this—always <i>felt</i> this. Guert + cannot be low, or mean in his sentiments, while an educated gentleman, + like Corny Littlepage, is his friend. I have written to my aunt, and we + must not be too hasty in our judgments. The spirit and follies of youth + will soon be over, and then we shall see a shining character in Guert Ten + Eyck. Is not this true, Anneke?” + </p> + <p> + Anneke knelt at the side of her friend, folded her in her arms, drew the + quivering head down upon her own sympathising bosom, and held it there a + moment, in the very attitude of protecting, solacing love. After a brief + pause, Mary Wallace burst into tears, and I have ever thought that that + relief, under God's mercy, saved her reason. In a few minutes, the + sufferer became more calm, when she retired into herself, as was her wont, + leaving Anneke and me to discuss the subject. + </p> + <p> + After turning all the chances and probabilities in our minds, I promised + my companions not to lose a moment, but to use immediate means of + ascertaining all that could be ascertained, in Guert's behalf, and of + doing everything that could be done, to save him. + </p> + <p> + “You will not deceive me, Corny,” whispered Mary Wallace, pressing my hand + at leave-taking, in both her own. “I know I can depend on <i>you</i>, for + he <i>boasts</i> of being your friend.” + </p> + <p> + Anneke's painful smile added force to this request, and I tore myself away + unwilling to quit such a sufferer, yet unable to remain. Herman Mordaunt + was seen conversing with Susquesus, in the court, and I joined him at + once, determined to lose no time. + </p> + <p> + “I was speaking to the Trackless on this very subject,” answered Herman + Mordaunt, as soon as I had explained my purpose, “and am now waiting for + his answer. Do you think it, then, safe to send a messenger out to the + Hurons, in order to inquire after our friends, and to treat with them!” + </p> + <p> + “No send?—Why not?” returned the Indian. “Red man glad to see + messenger. Go when he want; come back when he want. How can make bargain, + if scalp messenger?” + </p> + <p> + I had heard that the most savage tribes respected a messenger; and, + indeed, the necessity of so doing was, of itself, a sort of security that + such must be the case. It was true, that the bearer of a flag might be in + more danger, on such an errand, than would be the case in a camp of + civilized men; but these Canada-Indians had been long serving with the + French, and their chiefs, beyond a question, had obtained some of the + notions of pale-face warfare. Without much reflection, therefore, and + under an impulse in behalf of my friend, and my slave—for Jaap's + fate was of lively interest with me—I volunteered to bear a flag + myself. Herman Mordaunt shook his head, and seemed reluctant to comply. + </p> + <p> + “Anneke would hardly pardon me for consenting to that,” he answered. “You + must remember, now, Corny, that a very tender and sensitive heart is bound + up in you, and you must no longer act like a thoughtless, single man. It + would be far better to send this Onondago, if he will agree to go. He + understands the red men, and will be able to interpret the omens with more + certainty, than any of us, What say you, Susquesus; will you be a + messenger to the Hurons?” + </p> + <p> + “Sartain;—why no go, if he want? Good to be messenger, sometime. + Where wampum—what tell him?” + </p> + <p> + Thus encouraged, we deliberated together, and soon had Susquesus in + readiness to depart. As for the Indian, he laid aside all his arms, washed + the war-paint from his face, put a calico shirt over his shoulders, and + assumed the guise of peace. We gave him a small, white flag to carry, + feeling certain that the Huron chiefs must understand its meaning; and + thinking it might be better, in bearing a message from pale-faces, that he + who carried it should have a pale-face symbol of his errand. Susquesus + found some wampum, too; having as much faith in that, probably, as in + anything else. He then set forth, being charged to offer liberal ransom to + the Hurons, for the living, uninjured bodies of Guert Ten Eyck and Jaap + Satanstoe. + </p> + <p> + We entertained no doubt that the enemy would be found in the ravine, for + that was the point, in every respect, most favourable to the operations of + the siege; being near the house, having a perfect cover, possessing water, + wood, and other conveniences. From that point the Nest could be watched, + and any favourable chance improved. Thither, then, Susquesus was told to + proceed; though it was not thought advisable to fetter one so shrewd, with + too many instructions. Several of us accompanied the Onondago to the gate, + and saw him moving across the fields, towards the wood, in his usual + loping trot. A bird could scarcely have flown more directly to its object. + </p> + <p> + The half-hour that succeeded the disappearance of Susquesus, in the mouth + of the ravine, was one of intensely painful suspense. We all remained + without the gate, waiting the result, including Dirck, Mr. Worden, Jason, + and half-a-dozen of the settlers. At length the Onondago reappeared; and, + to our great joy, a group followed him, in which were both the prisoners. + The last were bound, but able to walk. This party might have contained a + dozen of the enemy, all of whom were armed. It moved slowly out of the + ravine, and ascended to the fields that were on a level with the house, + halting when about four hundred yards from us. Seeing this movement, we + counted out exactly the same number of men, and went forward, halting at a + distance of two hundred yards from the Indians. Here we waited for our + messenger, who continued on, after the Hurons had come to a stand. Thus + far everything looked propitious. + </p> + <p> + “Do you bring us good news?” Herman Mordaunt eagerly asked. “Are our + friends unhurt?” + </p> + <p> + “Got scalp—no hurt—take prisoner—jump on 'em, ten, two, + six—cotch 'em, then. Open eyes; you see.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Hurons—do they seem inclined to accept the ransom? Rum, + rifle, blanket and powder; you offered all, I hope, Susquesus?” + </p> + <p> + “Sartain. No forget; that bad. Say take all that; some more, too.” + </p> + <p> + “And they have come to treat with us? What are we to do, now, Susquesus?” + </p> + <p> + “Put down rifle—go near and talk. You go—priest go—young + chief go—that t'ree. Then t'ree warrior lay down rifle, come talk, + too. Prisoner wait. All good.” + </p> + <p> + This was sufficiently intelligible, and believing that anything like + hesitation might make the condition of Guert desperate, we prepared to + comply. I could see that the Rev. Mr. Worden had no great relish for the + business, but was ashamed to hang back when he saw Herman Mordaunt + cheerfully advancing to the interview. We three were met by as many + Hurons, among whom was Jaap's friend 'Muss,' who was evidently the leading + person of the party. Guert and Jaap were held, bound, about a hundred + yards in the rear, but near enough to be spoken to, by raising the voice. + Guert was in his shirt and breeches, with his head uncovered, his fine + curly hair blowing about in the wind, and I thought I saw some signs of + blood on his linen. This might be his own, or it might have come from an + enemy. I called to him, therefore, inquiring how he did, and whether he + were hurt. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing to speak of, Corny, I thank you,” was the cheerful answer; “these + red gentlemen have had me tied to a tree, and have been seeing how near + they could hurl their tomahawks without hitting. This is one of their + customary amusements, and I have got a scratch or two in the sport. I hope + the ladies are in good spirits, and do not let the business of last night + distress them.” + </p> + <p> + “There is blessed news for you, Guert—Susquesus, ask these chiefs if + I may go near my friend to give him one word of consolation—on my + honour, no attempt to release him will be made by me, until I return + here.” + </p> + <p> + I spoke earnestly, and the Onondago interpreted what I had said into the + language of the Hurons. I had made this somewhat hardy request, under an + impulse that I found ungovernable, and was surprised, as well as pleased, + to find it granted. These savages confided in my word, and trusted to my + honour with a stately delicacy that might have done credit to the manners + of civilized kings, giving themselves no apparent concern about my + movements, although they occurred in their own rear. It was too late to + retract, and, leaving Herman Mordaunt endeavouring to drive a bargain with + Muss and his two companions, I proceeded, unconcerned myself, boldly + towards the armed men who held Guert and Jaap prisoners. I thought my + approach <i>did</i> cause a slight movement among these savages, and there + was a question and answer passed between them and their leaders. The + latter said but a word or two, but these were uttered authoritatively, and + with a commanding toss of a hand. Brief as they were, they answered the + purpose, and I was neither molested nor spoken to, during the short + interview I had with my friend. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, Corny, for this!” Guert cried with feeling, as I warmly + shook his hand. “It requires a warm heart, and a bold one too, to lead a + man into this 'lion's den.' Stay but a moment, lest some evil come of it, + I beg of you. This squeeze of the hand is worth an estate to a man in my + situation; but remember Anneke. Ah! Corny, my dear friend, I could be + happy even here, did I know that Mary Wallace grieved for me!” + </p> + <p> + “Then be happy, Guert. My sole object in venturing here, was to tell you + to hope everything in that quarter. There will be no longer any coyness, + any hesitation, any misgivings, when you shall be once restored to us.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Littlepage, you would not trifle with the feelings of a miserable + captive, hanging between torture and death, is my present case! I can + hardly credit my senses; yet, you would not mock me!” + </p> + <p> + “Believe all I say—nay, all you <i>wish</i>, Guert. It is seldom + that woman loves as <i>she</i> loves, and this I swear to you. I go now, + only to aid Herman Mordaunt in bringing you where your own ears shall hear + such proofs of what I say, as have been uttered in mine.” + </p> + <p> + Guert made no answer, but I could see he was profoundly affected. I + squeezed his hand, and we parted, in the full hope, on my side at least, + that the separation would be short. I have reason to think Guert shed + tears; for, on looking back, I perceived his face turned away from those + who were nearest to him. I had but a single glance at Jaap. My fellow + stood a little in the rear, as became his colour; but he watched my + countenance with the vigilance of a cat. I thought it best not to speak to + him, though I gave him a secret sign of encouragement. + </p> + <p> + “These chiefs are not very amicably disposed, Corny,” said Herman + Mordaunt, the instant I rejoined him. “They have given me to understand + that Jaap will be liberated on no terms whatever. They must have his + scalp, as Susquesus tells me, on account of some severity he himself has + shown to one of these chiefs. To use their own language, they want it for + a plaster to this warrior's back. His fate, it would seem, is sealed, and + he has only been brought out yonder, to raise hopes in him that are to be + disappointed. The wretches do not scruple to avow this, in their own + sententious manner. As for Guert, they say he slew two of their warriors, + and that their wives will miss their husbands, and will not be easily + quieted unless they see his scalp, too. They offer to release him, + however, on either of two sets of terms. They will give up Guert for two + of what they call chiefs, or for four common men. If we do not like those + conditions, they will exchange him, on condition we give two common men + for him, and abandon the Nest to them, by marching out, with all my + people, before the sun is up above our heads.” + </p> + <p> + “Conditions that you cannot accept, under any circumstances, I fear, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not. The delivery of any two is out of the question—would + be so, even to save my own life. As for the Nest and its contents, I would + very willingly abandon all, a few papers excepted, had I the smallest + faith in the chiefs' being able to restrain their followers; but the + dreadful massacre of William-Henry is still too recent, to confide in + anything of the sort. My answer is given already, and we are about to + part. Possibly, when they see us determined, they may lower their demands + a little.” + </p> + <p> + A grave parting wave of the hand was given by Muss, who had conducted + himself with great dignity in the interview, and the three Hurons walked + away in a body. + </p> + <p> + “Best go,” said Susquesus, significantly. “Maybe want rifle. Hurons in + 'arnest.” + </p> + <p> + On this hint, we returned to our friends, and resumed our arms. What + succeeded, I learned in part by the relations of others, while a part was + witnessed by my own eyes. It seems that Jaap, from the first, understood + the desperate nature of his own position. The remembrance of his mis-deeds + in relation to Muss, whose prisoner he had more especially become, most + probably increased his apprehensions, and his thoughts were constantly + bent on obtaining his liberty, by means entirely independent of + negotiation. From the instant he was brought out of the ravine, he kept + all his eyes about him, watching for the smallest chance of effecting his + purpose. It happened that one of the savages so placed himself before the + negro, who was kept behind all near him, as to enable Jaap to draw the + Huron's knife from its sheath without being detected: He did this while I + was actually with the party, and all eyes were on me. Guert and himself + were bound, by having their arms fastened above the elbows, behind the + back; and when Guert turned aside to shed tears, as mentioned, Jaap + succeeded in cutting his fastenings. This could be done, only while the + savages were following my retreating form with their eyes. At the same + time Jaap gave the knife to Guert, who did him a similar service. As the + Indians did not take the alarm, the prisoners paused a moment, holding + their arms as if still bound, to look around them. The Indian nearest + Guert had two rifles, his own and that of Muss, both leaning negligently + against his shoulder, with their breeches on the ground. To these weapons + Guert pointed; and, when the three chiefs were on the point of rejoining + their friends, who were attentive to their movements in order to ascertain + the result, Guert seized this savage by his arm, which he twisted until + the Indian yelled with pain, then caught one rifle, while Jaap laid hold + of the other. Each fired and brought down his man; then they made an onset + with the butts of their pieces on the rest of the party. This bold + assault, though so desperate in appearance, was the wisest thing they + could do; as immediate flight would have left their enemies an opportunity + of sending the swift runners of their pieces in pursuit. + </p> + <p> + The first intimation we had of any movement of this sort was in the + reports of the rifles. Then, I not only saw, but I heard the tremendous + blow Jaap gave to the head of Muss; a blow that demolished both the victim + and the instrument of his destruction. Though the breech of the rifle was + broken, the heavy barrel still remained, and the negro flourished it with + a force that swept all before him. It is scarcely necessary to say Guert + was not idle in such a fray. He fought for Mary Wallace, as well as for + himself, and he overturned two more of the Indians, as it might be, in the + twinkling of an eye. Here Dirck did good service to our friends. His rifle + was in his hands, and, levelling it with coolness, he shot down a powerful + savage who was on the point of seizing Guert from behind. This was the + commencement of a general war, volleys now coming from both parties; from + ourselves, and from the enemy, who were in the cover of the woods. + Intimidated by the fury of the personal assault under which they were + suffering, the remaining Indians near Guert and the negro leaped away + towards their friends, yelling; leaving their late prisoners free, but + more exposed to fire than they could have been when encircled even by + enemies. + </p> + <p> + Everything passed with fearful rapidity. Guert seized the rifle of a + fallen Indian, and Jaap obtained another, when they fell back towards us, + like two lions at bay, with rifle-bullets whizzing around them at every + step. Of course, we fired, and we also advanced to meet them; an imprudent + step, since the main body of the Hurons were covered, rendering the + contest unequal. But, there was no resisting the sympathetic impulses of + such a moment, or the exultation we all felt at the exploits of Guert and + Jaap, enacted, as they were, before our eyes. As we drew together, the + former shouted and cried— + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! Corny, my noble fellow—let us charge the woot—there'll + not be a reat-skin left in it, in five minutes. Forwart, my friends—forwart, + all!” + </p> + <p> + It certainly was an exciting moment. We all shouted in our turns, and all + cried 'forward,' in common. Even Mr. Worden joined in the shout, and + pressed forward. Jason, too, fought bravely; and we went at the wood like + so many bull-dogs. I fancy the pedagogue thought the fee-simple of his + mills depended on the result. On we went, in open order, reserving our + fire for the last moment, but receiving dropping shots, that did us no + harm, until we dashed into the thicket. + </p> + <p> + The Hurons were discomfited, and they fled. Though a panic is not usual + among those wild warriors, they seldom rally on the field. If once driven, + against their will, a close pursuit will usually disperse them for a time; + and such was the case now. By the time I got fairly into the ravine, I + could see or hear of no enemy. My friends were on my right and left, + shouting and pressing on; but there was no foe visible. Guert and Jaap + were in advance, for we could not overtake them; and they had fired, for + they got the last glimpses of the enemy. But one more shot did come from + the Hurons in that inroad. It was fired from some one of the retreating + party, who must have been lingering in its rear. The report sounded far up + the ravine, and it came like a farewell and final gun. Distant as it was, + however, it proved the most fatal shot to us that was fired in all that + affair. I caught a glimpse of Guert, through the trees, and saw him fall. + In an instant, I was at his side. + </p> + <p> + What a change is that from the triumph of victory to the sudden approach + of death! I saw by the expression of Guert's countenance, as I raised him + in my arms, that the blow was fatal. The ball, indeed, had passed directly + through his body, missing the bones, but injuring the vitals. There is no + mistaking the expression of a death-wound on the human countenance, when + the effect is direct and not remote. Nature appears to admonish the victim + of his fate. So it was with Guert. + </p> + <p> + “This shot has done for me, Corny,” he said, “and it seems to be the very + last they intended to fire. I almost hope there can be no truth in what + you told me of Mary Wallace!” + </p> + <p> + That was neither the time nor the place to speak on such a subject, and I + made no answer. From the instant the fall of Guert became known, the + pursuit ceased, and our whole party collected around the wounded man. The + Indian alone seemed to retain any consciousness of the importance of + knowing what the enemy was doing, for his philosophy was not easily + disturbed by the sudden appearance of death among us. Still he liked + Guert, as did every one who could get beyond the weaknesses of his outer + character, and fairly at the noble traits of his manly nature. Susquesus + looked at the sufferer a moment, gravely and not without concern; then he + turned to Herman Mordaunt, and said— + </p> + <p> + “This bad—save scalp, that good, though. Carry him in house. + Susquesus follow trail and see what Injin mean.” + </p> + <p> + As this was well, he was told to watch the enemy, while we bore our friend + towards the Nest. Dirck consented to precede us, and let the melancholy + truth be known, while I continued with Guert, who held my hand the whole + distance. We were a most melancholy procession, for victors. Not a serious + hurt had any of our party received, in this last affair, the wound of + Guert Ten Eyck excepted; yet, I question if more real sorrow would have + been felt over two or three other deaths. We had become accustomed to our + situation; it is wonderful how soon the soldier does; rendering death + familiar, and disarming him of half his terrors; but calamities can, and + do occur, to bring back an army to a sense of its true nature and its + dependence on Providence. Such had been the effect of the loss of Lord + Howe, on the troops before Ticonderoga, and such was the effect of the + fall of Guert Ten Eyck, on the small band that was collected to defend the + possessions and firesides of Ravensnest. + </p> + <p> + We entered the gate of the house, and found most of its tenants already in + the court, collected like a congregation in a church that awaits the + entrance of the dead. Herman Mordaunt had sent an order to have his own + room prepared for the sufferer, and thither we carried Guert. He was + placed on the bed; then the crowd silently withdrew. I observed that + Guert's eyes turned anxiously and inquiringly around, and I told him, in a + low voice, I would go for the ladies myself. A smile, and a pressure of + the hand, showed how well I had interpreted his thoughts. + </p> + <p> + Somewhat to my surprise, I found Mary Wallace, pale it is true, but + comparatively calm and mistress of herself. That instinct of propriety + which seems to form a part of the nature of a well-educated woman, had + taught her the necessity of self-command, that no outbreak of her feelings + should affect the sufferer. As for Anneke, she was like herself, gentle, + mourning, and full of sympathy for her friend. + </p> + <p> + As soon as apprised of the object of my visit, the two girls expressed + their readiness to go to Guert. As they knew the way, I did not attend + them, purposely proceeding an another direction, in order not to be a + witness of the interview. Anneke has since told me, however, that Mary's + self-command did not altogether desert her, while Guert's cheerful + gratitude probably so far deceived her as to create a short-lived hope + that the wound was not mortal. For myself, I passed an hour in attending + to the state of things in and around the house, in order to make certain + that no negligence occurred still to endanger our security. At the end of + that time, I returned to Guert, meeting Herman Mordaunt near the door of + his room. + </p> + <p> + “The little hope we had is vanished,” said the last, in a sorrowful tone. + “Poor Ten Eyck has, beyond a question, received his death-wound, and has + but a few hours to live. Were my people safe, I would rather that + everything at Ravensnest, house and estate, were destroyed, than had this + happen!” + </p> + <p> + Prepared by this announcement, I was not as much surprised as I might + otherwise have been, at the great change that had occurred in my friend, + since the time I quitted his room. It was evident he anticipated the + result. Nevertheless he was calm; nay, apparently happy. Nor was he so + much enfeebled as to prevent his speaking quite distinctly, and with + sufficient ease. When the machine of life is stopped by the sudden + disruption of a vital ligament, the approaches of death, though more rapid + than with disease, are seldom so apparent. The first evidences of a fatal + termination are discovered rather through the nature of the violence, than + by means of apparent effects. + </p> + <p> + I have said that Guert seemed even happy, though death was so near. Anneke + told me, subsequently, that Mary Wallace had owned her love, in answer to + an earnest appeal on his part, and, from that moment, he had expressed + himself as one who was about to die contented. Poor Guert! It was little + he thought of the dread future, or of the church on earth, except as the + last was entitled to, and did receive on all occasions, his outward + respect. It seemed that Mary Wallace, habitually so reserved and silent + among her friends, had been accustomed to converse freely with Guert, and + that she had made a serious effort, during her residence in Albany, to + enlighten his mind, or rather to arouse his feelings on this all-important + subject, and that Guert, sensible of the pleasure of receiving instruction + from such a source, always listened with attention. When I entered the + room, some allusion had just been made to this theme. + </p> + <p> + “But for you, Mary, I should be little better than a heathen,” said Guert, + holding the hand of his beloved, and scarce averting his eyes from their + idol a single instant. “If God has mercy on me, it will be on your + account.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! no—no—no—Guert, say not, think not <i>thus!</i>” + exclaimed Mary Wallace, shocked at this excess of his attachment even for + herself at such a moment. “We all receive our pardons through the death + and mediation of his Blessed Son. Nothing else can save you, or any of us, + my dear, dear Guert; and I implore you not to think otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + Guert looked a little bewildered; still he looked pleased. The first + expression was probably produced by his not exactly comprehending the + nature of that mysterious expiation, which baffles the unaided powers of + man, and which, indeed, is to be felt, rather than understood. The look of + pleasure had its origin in the 'dear, dear Guert,' and, more than that, in + the consciousness of possessing the affections of the woman he had so long + loved, almost against hope. Guert Ten Eyck was a man of bold and reckless + character, in all that pertained to risks, frolic, and youthful adventure; + but the meekest Christian could scarcely possess a more lowly opinion of + his own frailties and sins, than this dashing young fellow possessed of + his own claims to be valued by such a being as Mary Wallace. I often + wondered how he ever presumed to love her, but suppose the apparent vanity + must be ascribed to the resistless power of a passion that is known to be + the strongest of our nature. It was also a sort of moral anomaly that two + so opposed to each other in character; the one verging on extreme + recklessness, the other pushing prudence almost to prudery; the one so gay + as to seem to live for frolic, the other quiet and reserved should + conceive this strong predilection for each other; but so it was. I have + heard persons say, however, that these varieties in temperament awaken + interest, and that they who have commenced with such dissimilarities, but + have assimilated by communion, attachment, and habits, after all, make the + happiest couples. + </p> + <p> + Mary Wallace lost all her reserve, in the gush of tenderness and sympathy, + that now swept all before it. Throughout the whole of that morning, she + hung about Guert, as the mother watches the ailing infant. If his thirst + was to be assuaged, her hand held the cup; if his pillow was to be + replaced, her care suggested the alteration; if his brow was to be wiped, + she performed that office for him, suffering no other to come between her + and the object of her solicitude. + </p> + <p> + There were moments when the manner in which Mary Wallace hung over Guert, + was infinitely touching. Anneke and I knew that her very soul yearned to + lead his thoughts to dwell on the subject of the great change that was so + near. Nevertheless, the tenderness of the woman was so much stronger than + even the anxiety of the Christian, that we perceived she feared the + influence on his wound. At length, happily for an anxiety that was + beginning to be too painful for endurance, Guert spoke on the subject, + himself. Whether his mind adverted naturally to such a topic, or he + perceived the solicitude of his gentle nurse, I could not say. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot stay with you long, Mary,” he said, “and I should like to have + Mr. Worden's prayers, united to yours, offered up in my behalf. Corny will + seek the Dominie, for an old friend?” + </p> + <p> + I vanished from the room, and was absent ten minutes. At the end of that + time, Mr. Worden was ready in his surplice, and we went to the sick room. + Certainly, our old pastor had not the way of manifesting the influence of + religion, that is usual to the colonies, especially to those of the more + northern and eastern portion of the country; yet, there was a heartiness + in his manner of praying, at times, that almost persuaded me he was a good + man. I will own, however, that Mr. Worden was one of those clergymen who + could pray much more sincerely for certain persons, than for others. He + was partial to poor Guert; and I really thought this was manifest in his + accents, on this melancholy occasion. + </p> + <p> + The dying man was relieved by this attention to the rites of the church. + Guert was not a metaphysician; and, at no period of his life, I believe, + did he ever enter very closely into the consideration of those fearful + questions which were connected with his existence, origin, destination, + and position, in the long scale of animated beings. He had those general + notions on these subjects, that all civilized men imbibe by education and + communion with their fellows, but nothing more. He understood it was a + duty to pray; and I make no doubt he fancied there were times and seasons + in which this duty was more imperative than at others; and times and + seasons when it might be dispensed with. + </p> + <p> + How tenderly and how anxiously did Mary Wallace watch over her patient, + during the whole of that sad day! She seemed to know neither weariness nor + fatigue. Towards evening, it was just as the sun was tinging the summits + of the trees with its parting light, she came towards Anneke and myself, + with a face that was slightly illuminated with something like a glow of + pleasure, and whispered to us, that Guert was better. Within ten minutes + of that moment, I approached the bed, and saw a slight movement of the + patient's hand, as if he desired me to come nearer. + </p> + <p> + “Corny,” said Guert, in a low, languid voice—“it is nearly all over. + I wish I could see Mary Wallace, once more, before I die!” + </p> + <p> + Mary was not, <i>could</i> not be distant. She fell upon her knees, and + clasped the yielding form of her lover to her heart. Nothing was said on + either side; or, if aught were said, it was whispered, and was of a nature + too sacred to be communicated to others. In that attitude did this young + woman, long so coy and so difficult to decide, remain for near an hour, + and in that quiet, cherishing, womanly embrace, did Guert Ten Eyck breathe + his last. + </p> + <p> + I left the sufferer as much alone with the woman of his heart, as + comported with prudence and a proper attention on my part; but it was my + melancholy duty to close his eyes. Thus prematurely terminated the earthly + career of as manly a spirit as ever dwelt in human form. That it had + imperfections, my pen has not concealed; but the long years that have + since passed away, have not served to obliterate the regard so noble a + temperament could not fail to awaken. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + How slow the day slides on! When we desire + Time's haste, he seems to lose a match with lobsters: + And when we wish him stay, he imps his wings + With feathers plumed with thought. + + ALBAMAZAR. +</pre> + <p> + It is unnecessary to dwell on the grief that we all felt for our loss. + That night was necessarily one of watchfulness but few were inclined to + sleep. The return of light found us unmolested, however; and an hour or + two later, Susquesus came in, and reported that the enemy had retreated + towards Ticonderoga. There was nothing more to fear from that quarter, and + the settlers soon began to return to their dwellings, or to such as + remained. In the course of a week the axe again rang in the forest, and + rude habitations began to reappear, in the places of those that had been + destroyed. As Bulstrode could not well be removed, Herman Mordaunt + determined to pass the remainder of the season at Ravensnest, with the + double view of accommodating his guest, and of encouraging his settlers. + The danger was known to be over for that summer at least, and, ere the + approach of another, it was hoped that the humiliated feelings of Great + Britain would so far be aroused, as to drive the enemy from the province; + as indeed was effectually done. + </p> + <p> + On consultation, it was decided that the body of Guert ought to be sent, + for interment among his friends, to Albany. Dirck and myself accompanied + it, as the principal attendants, all that remained of our party going with + us. Herman Mordaunt thought it necessary to remain at Ravensnest, and + Anneke would not quit her father. The Rev. Mr. Worden's missionary zeal + had, by this trial, effectually evaporated, and he profited by so + favourable an occasion to withdraw into the safer and more peopled + districts. I well remember as we marched after the horse-litter that + carried the remains of poor Guert, the divine's making the following + sensible remarks:— + </p> + <p> + “You see how it is, on this frontier, Corny,” he said; “it is premature to + think of introducing Christianity. Christianity is essentially a civilized + religion, and can only be of use among civilized beings. It is true, my + young friend, that many of the early apostles were not learned, after the + fashion of this world, but they were all thoroughly civilized. Palestine + was a civilized country, and the Hebrews were a great people; and I + consider the precedent set by our blessed Lord is a command to be followed + in all time, and that his appearance in Judea is tantamount to his saying + to his apostles, 'go and preach me and my gospel to all <i>civilized</i> + people.'” + </p> + <p> + I ventured to remark that there was something like a direct command to + preach it to <i>all</i> nations, to be found in the bible. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that is true enough,” answered Mr. Worden, “but it clearly means all + <i>civilized</i> nations. Then, this was before the discovery of America, + and it is fair enough to presume that the command referred solely to <i>known</i> + nations. The texts of scripture are not to be strained, but are to be + construed naturally, Corny, and this seems to me to be the natural reading + of that passage. No, I have been rash and imprudent in pushing duty to + exaggeration, and shall confine my labours to their proper sphere, during + the remainder of my days. Civilization is just as much a means of + providence as religion itself; and it is clearly intended that one should + be built on the other. A clergyman goes quite far enough from the centre + of refinement, when he quits home to come into these colonies to preach + the gospel; letting alone these scalping devils the Indians, who, I + greatly fear, were never born to be saved. It may do well enough to have + societies to keep them in view, but a meeting in London is quite near + enough ever to approach them.” + </p> + <p> + Such, ever after, appeared to be the sentiments of the Rev. Mr. Worden, + and I took no pains to change them. I ought, however, to have alluded to + the parting with Anneke, before I gave the foregoing extract from the + parson's homily. Circumstances prevented my having much private + communication with my betrothed before quitting the Nest; for Anneke's + sympathy with Mary Wallace was too profound to permit her to think much, + just then, of aught but the latter's sorrows. As for Mary herself, the + strength and depth of her attachment and grief were never fully + appreciated, until time came to vindicate them. Her seeming calm was soon + restored, for it was only under a tempest of feeling that Mary Wallace + lost her self-command; and the affliction that was inevitable and + irremediable, one of her regulated temperament and high principles, + struggled to endure with Christian submission. It was only in after-life + that I came to know how intense and absorbing had, in truth, been her + passion for the gay, high-spirited, ill-educated, and impulsive young + Albanian. + </p> + <p> + Anneke wept for a few minutes in my arms, a quarter of an hour before our + melancholy procession quitted the Nest. The dear girl had no undue reserve + with me; though I found her a little reluctant to converse on the subject + of our own loves, so soon after the fearful scenes we had just gone + through. Still, she left me in no doubt on the all-important point of my + carrying away with me her whole and entirely undivided heart. Bulstrode + she never had, never <i>could</i> love. This she assured me, over and over + again. He amused her, and she felt for him some of the affection and + interest of kindred, but not the least of any other interest. Poor + Bulstrode! now I was certain of success, I had very magnanimous sentiments + in his behalf, and could give him credit for various good qualities that + had been previously obscured in my eyes. Herman Mordaunt had requested + nothing might be said to the major of my engagement; though an early + opportunity was to be taken by himself, to let the suitor understand that + Anneke declined the honour of his hand. It was thought the information + would best come from him. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be frank with you, Littlepage, and confess I have been very + anxious for the union of my daughter and Mr. Bulstrode,” added Herman + Mordaunt, in the interview we had before I left the Nest; “and I trust to + your own good sense to account for it. I knew Bulstrode before I had any + knowledge of yourself; and there was already a connection between us, that + was just of a nature to render one that was closer, desirable. I shall not + deny that I fancied Anneke fitted to adorn the station and circles to + which Bulstrode would have carried her; and, perhaps, it is a natural + parental weakness to wish to see one's child promoted. We talk of humility + and contentment, Corny, though there is much of the <i>nolo episcopari</i> + about it, after all. But you see that the preference of the child is so + much stronger than that of the parent, that it must prevail. I dare say, + after all, you would much rather be Anneke's choice, than be mine?” + </p> + <p> + “I can have no difficulty in admitting that, sir,” I answered; “and I feel + very sensible of the liberal manner in which you yield your own + preferences to our wishes. Certainly, in the way of rank and fortune, I + have little to offer, Mr. Mordaunt, as an offset to Mr. Bulstrode's + claims; but, in love for your daughter, and in an ardent desire to make + her happy, I shall not yield to him, or any other man, though he were a + king.” + </p> + <p> + “In the way of fortune, Littlepage, I have very few regrets. As you are to + live in this country, the joint means of the two families, which, some + day, must centre in you and Anneke, will prove all-sufficient; and, as for + posterity, Ravensnest and Mooseridge will supply ample provisions. As the + colony grows, your descendants will increase, and your means will increase + with both. No, no; I may have been a little disappointed; that much I will + own; but I have not been, at any time, displeased. God bless you, then, my + dear boy; write us from Albany, and come to us at Lilacs bush in + September. Your reception will be that of a son.” + </p> + <p> + It is needless to dwell on the melancholy procession we formed through the + woods. Dirck and myself kept near the body, on foot, until we reached the + highway, when vehicles were provided for the common transportation. On + reaching Albany, we delivered the remains of Guert to his relatives, and + there was a suitable funeral given. The bricked closet behind the chimney, + was opened, as usual, and the six dozen of Madeira, that had been placed + in it twenty-four years before, or the day the poor fellow was christened, + was found to be very excellent. I remember it was said generally, that + better wine was drunk at the funeral of Guert Ten Eyck, than had been + tasted at the obsequies of any individual who was not a Van Rensselaer, a + Schuyler, or a Ten Broeck, within the memory of man. I now speak of + funerals in Albany; for I do suppose the remark would scarcely apply to + many other funerals, lower down the river. As a rule, however, very good + wine was given at all our funerals. + </p> + <p> + The Rev. Mr. Worden officiated, and was universally regarded with + interest, as a pious minister of the gospel, who had barely escaped the + fate of the person he was now committing 'dust to dust,' while devotedly + and ardently employed in endeavouring to rescue the souls of the very + savages who sought his life, from the fate of the heathen. + </p> + <p> + I remember there was a very well worded paragraph to this effect in the + New York Gazette, and I had heard it said, but do not remember to have + ever seen it myself, that in one of the reports of the Society for the + Promulgation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, the circumstances were + alluded to in a very touching and edifying manner. + </p> + <p> + Poor Guert! I passed a few minutes at his grave before we went south. It + was all that was left of his fine person, his high spirit, his + lion-hearted courage, his buoyant spirits, and his unextinguishable love + of frolic. A finer physical man I never beheld, or one who better + satisfied the eye, in all respects. That the noble tenement was not more + intellectually occupied, was purely the consequence of a want of + education. Notwithstanding, all the books in the world could not have + converted Guert Ten Eyck into a Jason Newcome, or Jason Newcome into a + Guert Ten Eyck. Each owed many of his peculiarities, doubtless, to the + province in which he was bred and born, and to the training consequent on + these accidents; but nature had also drawn broad distinctions between + them. All the wildness of Guert's impulses could not altogether destroy + his feelings tone, and tact as a gentleman; while all the soaring, + extravagant pretensions of Jason never could have ended in elevating him + to that character. Alas! Poor Guert! I sincerely mourned his loss for + years, nor has his memory yet ceased to have a deep interest with me. + </p> + <p> + Dirck Follock and I would have been a good deal caressed at Albany, on our + return, both on account of what had happened, and on account of our Dutch + connections, had we been in the mood to profit by the disposition of the + people. But, we were not. The sad events with which we had been connected + were still too recent to indulge in gaieties or company; and, as soon, as + possible after the funeral, we seized the opportunity of embarking on + board a sloop bound to New fork. Our voyage was generally considered a + prosperous one, lasting, indeed, only six days. We took the ground three + times, it is true; but nothing was thought of that, such accidents being + of frequent occurrence. Among the events of this sort, one occurred in the + Overslaugh, and I passed a few hours there very pleasantly, as it was so + near the scene of our adventure on the river. Anneke always occupied much + of my thoughts, but pleasing pictures of her gentle decision, her implicit + reliance on myself, her resignation, her spirit, and her intelligence were + now blended, without any alloy, in my recollections. The dear girl had + confessed to me, that she loved me even on that fearful night, for her + tenderness in my behalf dated much farther back. This was a great addition + to the satisfaction with which I went over every incident and speech, in + recollection, endeavouring to recall the most minute tone or expression, + to see if I could <i>now</i> connect it with any sign of that passion, + which I was authorized in believing did even then exist. Thus aided, + equally by Anneke's gentle, blushing admissions, and my own wishes, I had + no difficulty in recalling pictures that were infinitely agreeable to + myself, though possibly not minutely accurate. + </p> + <p> + In the Tappaan Sea, Dirck left us; proceeding into Rockland, to join his + family. I continued on in the sloop, reaching port next day. My uncle and + aunt Legge were delighted to see me, and I soon found I should be a lion, + had I leisure to remain in town, in order to enjoy the notoriety my + connection with the northern expedition had created. I found a deep + mortification pervading the capital, in consequence of our defeat, mingled + with a high determination to redeem our tarnished honour. + </p> + <p> + Satanstoe, with all its endearing ties, however, called me away; and I + left town, on horseback, leaving my effects to follow by the first good + opportunity, the morning of the day succeeding that on which I had + arrived. I shall not attempt to conceal one weakness. As usual, I stopped + at Kingsbridge to dine and bait; and while the notable landlady was + preparing my dinner, I ascended the heights to catch a distant view of + Lilacsbush. There lay the pretty cottage-like dwelling, placed beneath the + hill, amid a wilderness of shrubbery; but its lovely young mistress was + far away, and I found the pleasure with which I gazed at it blended with + regrets. + </p> + <p> + “You have been north, I hear, Mr. Littlepage,” my landlady observed, while + I was discussing her lamb, and peas and asparagus; “pray, sir, did you + hear or see anything of our honoured neighbours, Herman Mordaunt and his + charming daughter?” + </p> + <p> + “Much of both, Mrs. Light; and that under trying circumstances. + Mooseridge, my father's property in that part of the province, is quite + near to Ravensnest, Herman Mordaunt's estate, and I have passed some time + at it. Have no tidings of the family reached you, lately?” + </p> + <p> + “None, unless it be the report that Miss Anneke will never return to us.” + </p> + <p> + “Anneke not return! In the name of wonder, how do you hear this?” + </p> + <p> + “Not as <i>Miss</i> Anneke, but as Lady Anneke, or something of that sort. + Isn't there a General Bulstrom, or some great officer or other, who seeks + her hand, and on whom she smiles, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I presume I understand you, now. Well, what do you learn of him?” + </p> + <p> + “Only that they are to be married next month—some say they <i>are</i> + married already, and that the old gentleman gives Lilacsbush, out and out, + and four thousand pounds currency, down, in order to purchase so high an + honour for his child. I tell the neighbours it is too much, Miss Anneke + being worth any lord in England, on her own, sole, account.” + </p> + <p> + This intelligence did not disturb me, of course, for it was tavern-tidings + and neighbours' news. Neighbours! How much is that sacred word + prostituted! You shall find people opening their ears with avidity to the + gossip of a neighbourhood, when nineteen times in twenty it is less + entitled to credit than the intelligence which is obtained from a + distance, provided the latter come from persons of the same class in life + as the individuals in question, and are known to them. What means had this + woman of knowing the secrets of Herman Mordaunt's family, that were + one-half as good as those possessed by friends in Albany, for instance? + This neighbourhood testimony, as it is called, does a vast deal of + mischief in the province, and most especially in those parts of it where + our own people are brought in contact with their fellow-subjects, from the + more eastern colonies. In my eyes, Jason Newcome's opinions of Herman + Mordaunt, and his acts, would be nearly worthless, shrewd as I admit the + man to be; for the two have not a distinctive opinion, custom, and I had + almost said principle, in common. Just appreciation of motives and acts + can only proceed from those who feel and think alike; and this is morally + impossible where there exist broad distinctions in social classes. It is + just for this reason that we attach so little importance to the ordinary + reports, and even to the sworn evidence, of servants. + </p> + <p> + Our reception at Satanstoe was just what might have been expected. My dear + mother hugged me to her heart, again and again, and seemed never to be + satisfied with feasting her eyes on me. My father was affected at seeing + me, too; and I thought there was a very decided moisture in his eyes. As + for old Capt. Hugh Roger, three-score-and-ten had exhausted his fluids, + pretty much; but he shook me heartily by the hand, and listened to my + account of the movements before Ty with all a soldier's interest, and with + somewhat of the fire of one who had served himself in more fortunate + times. I had to fight my battles o'er and o'er again, as a matter of + course, and to recount the tale of Ravensnest in all its details. We were + at supper, when I concluded my most laboured narrative, and when I began + to hope my duties, in this respect, were finally terminated. But my dear + mother had heavier matters still, on her mind; and it was necessary that I + should give her a private conference, in her own little room. + </p> + <p> + “Corny, my beloved child,” commenced this anxious and most tender parent, + “you have said nothing <i>particular</i> to me of the Mordaunts. It is now + time to speak of that family.” + </p> + <p> + “Have I not told you, mother, how we met at Albany, and of what occurred + on the river.” I had not spoken of that adventure in my letters, because I + was uncertain of the true state of Anneke's feelings, and did not wish to + raise expectations that might never be realized.—“And of our going + to Ravensnest in company, and of all that happened at Ravensnest after our + return from Ty.” + </p> + <p> + “What is all this to me, child! I wish to hear you speak of Anneke—is + it true that she is going to be married?” + </p> + <p> + “It is true. I can affirm that much from her own mouth.” + </p> + <p> + My dear mother's countenance fell, and I could hardly pursue my wicked <i>equivoque</i> + any further. + </p> + <p> + “And she has even had the effrontery to own this to <i>you,</i> Corny?” + </p> + <p> + “She has, indeed; though truth compels me to add, that she blushed a great + deal while admitting it, and seemed only half-disposed to be so frank: + that is, at first; for, in the end, she rather smiled than blushed.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this amazes me! It is only a proof that vanity, and worldly rank, + and worldly riches, stand higher in the estimation of Anneke Mordaunt, + than excellence and modest merit.” + </p> + <p> + “What riches and worldly rank have I, mother, to tempt any woman to forget + the qualities you have mentioned?” + </p> + <p> + “I was not thinking of you, my son, in that sense, at all. Of course, I + mean Mr. Bulstrode.” + </p> + <p> + “What has Mr. Bulstrode to do with my marriage with Anne Mordaunt; or any + one else but her own sweet self, who has consented to become my wife; her + father, who accepts me for a son, my father, who is about to imitate his + example, by taking Anneke to his heart as a daughter, and you, my dearest, + dearest mother, who are the only person likely to raise obstacles, as you + are now doing.” + </p> + <p> + This was a boyish mode of producing a most delightful surprise, I am very + ready to acknowledge; and, when I saw my mother burst into tears, I felt + both regret and shame at having—practised it. But youth is the + season of folly, and happy is the man who can say he has never trifled + more seriously with the feelings of a parent. I was soon pardoned—what + offence would not that devoted mother have pardoned her only child!—when + I was made to relate all that was proper to be told, of what had passed + between Anneke and myself. It is scarcely necessary to say, I was assured + of the cheerful acquiescence in my wishes, of all my own family, from + Capt. Hugh Roger, down to the dear person who was speaking. They had set + their minds on my becoming the husband of this very young lady; and I + could not possibly have made any communication that would be more + agreeable, as I was given to understand from each and all, that very + night. + </p> + <p> + My return to Satanstoe occurred in the last half of the month of July. The + Mordaunts were not to be at Lilacsbush until the middle of September, and + I had near two months to wait for that happy moment. This time was passed + as well as it could be. I endeavoured to interest myself in the old Neck, + and to plan schemes of future happiness there, that were to be realized in + Anneke's society. It was and is a noble farm; rich, beautifully placed, + having water on more than three of its sides, in capital order, and well + stocked with such apples, peaches, apricots, plums, and other fruits, as + the world can scarcely equal. It is true that the provinces a little + further south, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, + think they can beat us in peaches; but I have never tasted any fruit that + I thought would compare with that of Satanstoe. I love every tree, wall, + knoll, swell, meadow, and hummock about the old place. One thing + distresses me. I love old names, such as my father knew the same places + by; and I like to mispronounce a word, when custom and association render + the practice familiar. I would not call my friend, Dirck Follock, anything + else but Follock, unless it might be in a formal way, or when asking him + to drink a glass of wine with me, for a great deal. So it is with + Satanstoe; the name is homely, I am willing to allow; but it is strong, + and conveys an idea. It relates also to the usages and notions of the + country; and names ought always to be preserved, except in those few + instances in which there are good reasons for altering them. I regret to + say, that ever since the appearance of Jason Newcome among us, there has + been a disposition among the ignorant and vulgar, to call the Neck, + Dibbleton; under the pretence I have already mentioned, that it once + belonged to the family of Dibblees; or, as some think, as a pious + diminutive of Devil's-Town. I indignantly repel this supposition; though, + I do believe, that Dibbleton is only a sneaking mode of pronouncing + Devilton; as, I admit, I have heard the old people laughingly term the + Neck. This belongs to the “Gaul darn ye” school, and it is not to my + taste. I say the ignorant and vulgar, for this is just the class to be + squeamish on such subjects. I have been told—though I cannot say + that I have heard it myself—but I am told, there have been people + from the eastward among us of late years, who affect to call “Hell-Gate,” + “Hurl-Gate,” or “Whirl-Gate,” or by some other such sentimental, + whirl-a-gig name; and these are the gentry who would wish to alter + “Satanstoe” into “Dibbleton!” Since the eastern troops have begun to come + among us, indeed, they have commenced a desperate inroad on many of our + old, venerated Dutch names; names that the English, direct from home, have + generally respected. Indeed, change—change in all things, seems to + be the besetting passion of these people. We, of New York, are content to + do as our ancestors have done before us; and this they ridicule, making it + matter of accusation against us, that we follow the notions of our + fathers. I shall never complain that they are deserting so many of <i>their</i> + customs; for, I regard the changes as improvements; but I beg that they + may leave us ours. + </p> + <p> + That there is such a thing as improvement I am willing enough to admit, as + well as that it not only compels, but excuses changes; but, I am yet to + learn it is matter of just reproach that a man follows in the footsteps of + those who have gone before him. The apothegms of David, and the wisdom of + Solomon, are just as much apothegms and wisdom, in our own time, as they + were the day they were written, and for precisely the same reason—their + truth. Where there is so much stability in morals, there must be permanent + principles, and something surely is worthy to be saved from the wreck of + the past. I doubt if all this craving for change has not more of + selfishness in it than either of expediency or of philosophy; and I could + wish, at least, that Satanstoe should never be frittered away into so + sneaking a substitute as Dibbleton. + </p> + <p> + That was a joyful day, when a servant in Herman Mordaunt's livery rode in + upon our lawn, and handed me a letter from his master, informing me of the + safe arrival of the family, and inviting me to ride over next day in time + to take a late breakfast at Lilacsbush. Anneke had written to me twice + previously to this; two beautifully expressed, feminine, yet spirited, + affectionate letters, in which the tenderness and sensibility of her + nature were barely restrained by the delicacy of her sex and situation. On + the receipt of this welcome invitation, I was guilty of the only piece of + romantic extravagance that I can remember having committed in the course + of my life. Herman Mordaunt's black was well treated, and dismissed with a + letter of acceptance. One hour after he left Satanstoe—I <i>do</i> + love that venerable name, and hope all the Yankees in Christendom will not + be able to alter it to Dibbleton—but, one hour after the negro was + off, I followed him myself, intending to sleep at the well-known inn at + Kingsbridge, and not present myself at the Bush, until the proper hour + next morning. + </p> + <p> + I had got to the house of the talkative landlady two hours before sunset, + put up my horse, secured my lodgings, and was eating a bite myself, when + the good housewife entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “Your servant, Mr. Littlepage,” commenced this loquacious person; “how are + the venerable Captain Hugh Roger, and the Major, your honoured father? + Well, I see by your smile. Well, it is a comfortable thing to have our + friends enjoy good health—my own poor man enjoyed most wretched + health all last winter, and is likely to enjoy very much the same, that + which is coming. I should think you had come to the wedding at Lilacsbush, + Mr. Corny, had you not stopped at my door, instead of going on direct to + that of Herman Mordaunt.” + </p> + <p> + I started, but supposed that the news of what was to happen had leaked + out, and that this good woman, whose ears were always open, had got hold + of a neighbourhood <i>truth</i> for once in her life. + </p> + <p> + “I am on no such errand, Mrs. Light, but hope to be married, one of these + days, to some one or other.” + </p> + <p> + “I was not thinking of your marriage, sir, but that of Miss Anneke, over + at the 'Bush, to this Lord Bulstrom. It's a great connection for the + Mordaunts, after all, though Herman Mordaunt is of good blood, himself, + they tell me. The knight's man often comes here, to taste new cider, which + he admits is as good as English cider, and I believe it is the only thing + which he has found in the colonies that he thinks is one-half as good; but + Thomas tells me all is settled, and that the wedding must take place right + soon. It has only been put off on account of Miss Wallace, who is in deep + mourning for her own husband, having lost him within the honey-moon, which + is the reason she still bears her own name. They tell me a widow who loses + her husband in the honey-moon is obliged to bear her maiden name; + otherwise Miss Mary would be Mrs. Van Goort, or something like that.” + </p> + <p> + As it was very clear the neighbourhood knew little about the true state of + things in Herman Mordaunt's family, I took my hat and proceeded to execute + the intention with which I had left home. I was sorry to hear that + Bulstrode was at Lilacsbush, but had no apprehension of his ever marrying + Anneke. I took the way to the heights, and soon reached the field where I + had once met the ladies, on horseback. There, seated under a tree, I saw + Bulstrode alone, and apparently in deep contemplation. It was no part of + my plan to be seen, or to have my presence known, and I was retiring, when + I heard my name, discovered that I was recognised, and joined him. + </p> + <p> + The first glance at Bulstrode showed me that he knew the truth. He + coloured, bit his lips, forced a smile, and came forward to meet me, + limping just enough to add interest to his gait, and offered his hand with + a frank manliness that gave him great merit in my eyes. It was no trifle + to lose Anne Mordaunt, and I am afraid I could not have manifested half so + much magnanimity. But, Bulstrode was a man of the world, and he knew how + to command the exhibition of his feelings, if not to command the feelings + themselves. + </p> + <p> + “I told you, once, Corny,” he said, offering his hand, “that we must + remain friends, <i>coute qui couté</i>—you have been successful, and + I have failed. Herman Mordaunt told me the melancholy fact before we left + Albany; and I can tell you, <i>his</i> regrets were not so very flattering + to you. Nevertheless, he admits you are a capital fellow, and that if it + were not for Alexander, he could wish to be Diogenes. So you have only to + provide yourself with a lantern and a tub, marry Anneke, and set up + housekeeping. As for the honest man, I propose saving you some trouble, by + offering myself in that character, even before you light your wick. Come, + take a seat on this bench, and let us chat.” + </p> + <p> + There was something a little forced in all this, it is true, but it was + manly. I took the seat, and Bulstrode went on. + </p> + <p> + “It was the river that made your fortune, Corny, and undid me.” + </p> + <p> + I smiled, but said nothing; though I knew better. + </p> + <p> + “There is a fate in love, as in war. Well, I am as well off as + Abercrombie; we both expected to be victorious, while each is conquered. I + am more fortunate, indeed; for he can never expect to get another army, + while I may get another wife. I wish you would be frank with me, and + confess to what you particularly ascribe your own success.” + </p> + <p> + “It is natural, Mr. Bulstrode, that a young woman should prefer to live in + her own country, to living in a strange land, and among strangers.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, Corny, that is both patriotic and modest; but it is not the real + reason. No, sir; it was Scrub, and the theatricals, by which I have been + undone. With most provincials, Mr. Littlepage, it is a sufficient apology + for anything, that the metropolis approves. So it is with you colonists, + in general; let England say yes, and you dare not say, no. There is one + thing, that persons who live so far from home, seldom learn; and it is + this: There are two sorts of great worlds; the great vulgar world, which + includes all but the very best in taste, principles, and manners, whether + it be in a capital or a country; and the great <i>respectable</i> world, + which, infinitely less numerous, contains the judicious, the instructed, + the intelligent, and, on some questions, the good. Now, the first form + fashion; whereas the last produce something far better and more enduring + than fashion. Fashion often stands rebuked, in the presence of the last + class, small as it ever is, numerically. Very high rank, very finished + tastes, very strong judgments, and very correct principles, all unite, + more or less, to make up this class. One, or more of these qualities may + be wanting, perhaps, but the union of the whole forms the perfection of + the character. We have daily examples of this at home, as well as + elsewhere; though, in our artificial state of society it requires more + decided qualities to resist the influence of fashion, when there is not + positive, social rank to sustain it, perhaps, than it would in one more + natural. That which first struck me, in Anneke, as is the case with most + young men, was her delicacy of appearance, and her beauty. This I will not + deny. In this respect, your American women have quite taken me by + surprise. In England, we are so accustomed to associate a certain delicacy + of person and air, with high rank, that I will confess, I landed in New + York with no expectation of meeting a single female, in the whole country, + that was not comparatively coarse, and what we are accustomed to consider + common, in physique; yet, I must now say that, apart from mere + conventional finish, I find quite as large a proportion of + aristocratical-looking females among you, as if you had a full share of + dutchesses. The last thing I should think of calling an American woman, + would be coarse. She may want manner, in one sense; she may want finish, + in a dozen things; she may, and often does, want utterance, as utterance + is understood among the accomplished; but she is seldom, indeed, coarse or + vulgar, according to our European understanding of the terms.” + </p> + <p> + “And of what is all this <i>ápropos</i>, Bulstrode?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! of your success, and my defeat, of course, Corny,” answered the + major, smiling. “What I mean, is this—that Anneke is one of your + second class, or is better than what fashion can make her; and Scrub has + been the means of my undoing. She does not care for fashion, in a play, or + a novel, or a dress even, but looks for the proprieties. Yes, Scrub has + proved my undoing!” + </p> + <p> + I did not exactly believe the last; but, finding Bulstrode so well + disposed to give his rejection this turn, it was not my part to contradict + him. We talked together half an hour longer, in the most amicable manner, + when we parted; Bulstrode promising not to betray the secret of my + presence. + </p> + <p> + I lingered in sight of the house until evening, when I ventured nearer, + hoping to get a glimpse of Anneke as she passed some window, or appeared, + by the soft light of the moon, under the piazza that skirted the south + front of the building. Lilacsbush deserved its name, being a perfect + wilderness of shrubbery; and, favoured by the last, I had got quite near + the house, when I heard light footsteps on the gravel of an adjacent walk. + At the next instant, soft, low voices met my ears, and I was a sort of + compelled auditor of what followed. + </p> + <p> + “No, Anne, my fate is sealed for this world,” said Mary Wallace, “and I + shall live Guert's widow as faithfully and devotedly, as if the + marriage-vow had been pronounced. This much is due to his memory, on + account of the heartless doubts I permitted to influence me, and which + drove him into those terrible scenes that destroyed him. When a woman + really loves, Anneke, it is vain to struggle against anything but positive + unworthiness, I fear. Poor Guert was not unworthy in any sense; he was + erring and impulsive, but not unworthy. No—no—not unworthy! I + ought to have given him my hand, and he would have been spared to us. As + it is, I can only live his widow in secret, and in love. You have done + well, dearest Anneke, in being so frank with Corny Littlepage, and in + avowing that preference which you have felt almost from the first day of + your acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + Although this was music to my ears, honour would not suffer me to hear + more, and I moved swiftly away, stirring the bushes in a way to apprize + the speaker of the proximity of a stranger. It was necessary to appear, + and I endeavoured so to do, without creating any alarm. + </p> + <p> + “It must be Mr. Bulstrode,” said the gentle voice of Anneke, “who is + probably looking for us—see, there he comes, and we will meet—” + </p> + <p> + The dear speaker became tongue-tied; for, by this time, I was near enough + to be recognised. At the next instant, I held her in my arms. Mary Wallace + disappeared, how or when, I cannot say. I place a veil over the happy hour + that succeeded, leaving the old to draw on their experience for its + pictures, and the young to live in hope. At the end of that time, by + Anneke's persuasion, I entered the house, and had to brave Herman + Mordaunt's disposition to rally me. I was not only mercifully, but + hospitably treated, however, Anneke's father merely laughing at my little + adventure, saying, that he looked upon it favourably, and as a sign that I + was a youth of spirit. + </p> + <p> + Early in October we were married, the Rev. Mr. Worden performing the + ceremony. Our home was to be Lilacsbush, which Herman Mordaunt conveyed to + me the same day, leaving it, as it was furnished, entirely in my hands. He + also gave me my wife's mother's fortune, a respectable independence, and + the death of Capt. Hugh Roger, soon after, added considerably to my means. + We made but one family, between town, Lilacsbush, and Satanstoe, Anneke + and my mother, in particular, conceiving a strong affection for each + other. + </p> + <p> + As for Bulstrode, he went home before the marriage, but keeps up a + correspondence with us to this hour. He is still single, and is a declared + old bachelor. His letters, however, are too light-hearted to leave us any + concern on the subject; though these are matters that may fall to the + share of my son Mordaunt, should he ever have the grace to continue this + family narrative. + </p> + <h3> + THE END. + </h3> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Satanstoe, by James Fenimore Cooper + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK SATANSTOE *** + +***** This file should be named 8880-h.htm or 8880-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/8/8/8/8880/ + + +Text file produced by Distributed Proofreaders + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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