Page:Ghost of my uncle (NLS104185164).pdf/21

21 been erected, the number of windows, hearths, &c., it contained: and, having gained the desired information, he immediately demanded, on behalf of his Majesty, a considerable sum, as the amount of taxes and arrears due upon the place. In vain I the poor man protested against the proceeding', as an imposition, in vain he contended, that the demand, never having been made before, he had no right to pay it then. The stranger was inexorable, and nothing would satisfy him but the payment of the money down, or, in default thereof, he threatened to return direct, with a party of the army, and lead, drive, and carry away all that he could find upon the island. At length, fearing such a catastrophe, and finding every effort to soften the hard heart of the excise man completely fruitless, the poor man paid down the amount demanded, and got a regular acknowledgement for the same; and the officer, having put the money in his pocket, haughtily desired that he might be put ashore. 'No, no,' said the old man; although his Majesty may compel me to pay taxes, he cannot compel me to keep a boat to row you, and the likes of you, back and forward.' After many threats and entreaties, the islander at last consented, as he had brought his visitor over, to give him 'a bit of a row' back again; and both getting