Page:Milady at Arms (1937).pdf/52

 Stockton regarded him fixedly a moment. "Ye are quibbling, sir," he answered sternly. "As for word o' honor to a rebel—nonsense!"

Gerald drew himself up. "An Englishman does not break his parole, whether to rebel or other man!" he returned as sternly.

The darkness hid the black flush on Stockton's face; but it could not conceal the anger in his voice. "You English assume too much credit. Lieutenant Lawrence!" he exclaimed rudely. "Ye are apt to lord it o'er us who were born i' the colonies, I ha' noticed!"

Young Lawrence flushed with embarrassment. Why, this was dreadful! It was like boys' squabbling. "I am better than ye!" "Nay, I am better than ye!"

"In truth, sir, I meant no insult," he was commencing humbly when Stockton cut him short. And suddenly the boy knew that here stood an enemy of his for life!

"Silence, sir!" said Stockton. He glanced around him. "There be a horse hidden for ye i' yonder swamp, on the rise o' land just beyond the group o' birches up the road. Escape this night—the way seems clear—and report to your company!"

Jerry shook his head. "I will try to escape to-morrow night, sir," he responded quietly.

Stockton moved a step nearer. "Ye will escape this night," he hissed into his subordinate's face,