While we lads crouched amid the vines which covered the porch of the dwelling wherein we had entrenched ourselves without due authority from the owner, watching intently for some token that our enemies were creeping up on us, the question came into my mind as to whether a goodly portion of the present trouble did not come from the fact that Master James Hunter was one of the deputies appointed by the association.
Then there came back to me all I had heard regarding the arrest of Masters Husband and William Hunter, a cousin of Deputy Hunter. It was said by some that Fanning had particular reasons for desiring the imprisonment of James, while he did not have a speaking acquaintance with William.
When the arrest was made, or rather when the two Regulators were taken into custody to convenience Messrs. Fanning and Edwards, the wrong Hunter was taken, and he against whom the attorney had been working was appointed one of two to represent the Regulation at an interview with the governor.
It was a vile act, throwing two men into jail on a charge of seditious conduct, simply to pleasure a couple of villains; but even this was not the worst of our treatment at the hands of Governor Tryon and his minions.
I could fill an hundred pages like this with accounts of injustice done us of the Carolinas, and yet set nothing down which might not be verified by reliable witnesses, while every item would be the record of an outrage as gross as that committed in the imprisonment of Masters Husband and Hunter.
If it could have been known throughout all the colonies what we of the Carolinas suffered under the misrule of William Tryon, then would that declaration of liberty which was made in 1776, have been brought about five years earlier.
However, it is not for me to hark back to the beginning of our troubles; I have set down these thoughts because they came into my mind like a flood while Sidney Hubbard and I remained on the alert against those who, unquestionably, had been instigated by men whose duty it was to protect the people, instead of riding them down like foxes on the hunting field.
I had been disheartened by the sudden turn in affairs, and the predictions made by Sidney, until it was to me as if the efforts to assert our rights as honest men would result in the death or imprisonment of all concerned in the undertaking.
Meanwhile, as I thus agitated myself about affairs which would be regulated by Providence, we two lads kept close watch but without seeing or hearing anything of those horsemen, who, as we knew full well, were lurking near at hand to work us some mischief.
When the white servant had prepared our supper, Masters Howell and Sidney went inside the dwelling to partake of the meal, leaving Master Hunter and me on guard, and, later, wetwo were relieved by the others to take our places at the table.
While Master James Hunter and I were eating, I ventured to ask him what he thought of the situation, and received as reply:
"We are better off here than on the road, although it seems likely our return will be greatly delayed."
"Meaning that you believe those men whom we saw will spend much time trying to capture us?"
"We shall not be able to continue our journey save at the expense of an encounter with those villains, and whether we ever see home again depends, as I believe, upon our being the best marksmen."
Such a prediction did not tend to raise my spirits, as can well be imagined, and straightway all desire for food fled from me.
I left the table without ceremony, and rejoined Sidney, full of determination to shoot with true aim if one of our enemies would present himself as a target.
Until the sun had gone down we watched invain, and while the twilight was gathering Master Howell announced his intention of venturing out to reconnoiter, for it seemed necessary we should know what disposition had been made of their forces.
Sidney insisted that he or I should be allowed to perform such task, arguing with great force, so I thought, that it would be of but little consequence if one of us lads was captured, while it could not be reckoned anything short of a disaster if harm befell either of the deputies.
Master Howell turned a deaf ear to his arguments and entreaties, replying again and again that he would not put a dangerous duty upon a boy when he was able to perform the task himself.
Even while we strove to restrain him, he went out into the night, as if bent on visiting the stable, and when he had arrived at that building it was no longer possible for us to distinguish his form.
Master Hunter kept watch alone at the front of the house, and in the rear Sidney and Istrained our ears for some token of disaster or success.
The deputy had been absent a full half hour, during which time we heard nothing save the movements of the servants, or the stamping of the horses in the winter kitchen, and then suddenly, as if he had risen from the ground, appeared Master Howell.
We lads raised our rifles, not knowing for the instant whether it was friend or foe who had come upon us so silently, and then we heard his voice:
"I have returned; do not fire."
He stood on the porch an instant to tell us in whispers the result of his investigations.
"They have surrounded the buildings in such manner that we cannot leave secretly, and appear to be content with that. As I look at the matter, they, having trapped us, are waiting for reinforcements, or, possibly, officers of the law."
"But you have said that Governor Tryon does not dare to cause our arrest now that the people of Brunswick have heard all the story," I suggested, not a little alarmed by the informationthat the enemy appeared well content to wait until we might be captured with greater ease.
"It was my proposition that Tryon would not dare arrest us in Brunswick; but now we have left that place, he might work his will without the people being any the wiser."
There was in Master Howell's tone that which convinced me he was seriously disturbed by the condition of affairs, and I understood such was really the case when he added:
"I think it is high time we held a conference of war, and one of you lads had best come with me to the front veranda, while the other remains here on guard."
I motioned Sidney to accompany Master Howell, and he, eager to hear all which might be said, readily acceded to the mute suggestion.
In another moment I was alone, peering out into the darkness with every faculty on the alert, and thus I remained until half an hour or more had passed, when my comrade returned.
"Well?" I asked impatiently, burning to learn the result of the conference, for I hadworked myself into a fever, trying to imagine what else we might do save await the preparations of our enemies.
"It is decided that we leave this place about midnight," he said in a cautious whisper; "that is, if you agree to the proposition."
"If I agree!" I repeated in nervous petulance. "What can I have to do with any plan which may be proposed?"
"If we set out it will be at risk of our lives, and the deputies have decided that no move shall be made unless all four of us are fully agreed that nothing different can be done."
"But how may we go or come at our pleasure if the house is surrounded?"
"We can saddle the horses, and mount while yet in the building. Then it is a case of starting with a rush, hoping that in the darkness those fellows will not be able to shoot us down."
"We are to run away, then?" I asked in surprise, for it had been in my mind that both Master Howell and Master Hunter would insist on fighting, however great the odds.
"It seems necessary to do so if we would seeour friends again, and the deputies believe it is of the utmost importance the Regulation be acquainted with the fact that all manner of treachery will be brought to bear, rather than do us justice. Therefore we will run instead of fight. Our horses are as fresh as theirs, and we may be able to give them the slip. In case we are brought to bay, it is better, so the gentlemen have decided, that we stand opposed to five or six men, rather than a large body. Are you agreed?"
"It is useless to ask such a question. I shall do whatsoever the deputies think best."
"Then, if that be your mind, the time may come when you will be called upon to act what appears to me like a cowardly part."
I was amazed by this remark, and it can be readily supposed that I insisted upon an immediate explanation.
"The deputies are agreed that in case we are brought to a standstill, you and I are to make our way to Maddock's Mill without regard to them. They will fight, whatsoever the odds, for the sole purpose of allowing us to escape."
"Why have they grown so careful of us?" I cried, never dreaming of that which would have come instantly into the mind of a quicker-witted lad.
"It is that we may carry the news to our friends. Masters Howell and Hunter will sacrifice their lives in order that the members of the association may be informed of the exact situation of affairs."
I made no promises; timorous though I was, there could be, so I said to myself, no time when I would feel warranted in leaving comrades or companions struggling against a superior force. The Regulation might forever remain in ignorance of what had been said at Brunswick, before I would write myself down such a coward as to seek safety while others of my party were in peril.
Luckily Sidney did not exact a promise from me on this score, and when Master Howell came to where we stood, he believed I had fully agreed to all the propositions.
"Sidney and I will saddle the horses when the time comes, and you and Hunter will onlyleave your posts in order to mount and make the rush. There is opportunity for us to gain a couple of hours' sleep. I will stand guard in front, Sidney is to remain here, and in due time you and Hunter shall act as sentinels."
I was not disposed for slumber; but this was virtually a command, and without hesitation I went into the sitting-room.
Here I soon fell asleep, despite the fear in my heart, and when Master Howell aroused me, at the expiration of two hours, it was as if I had but just closed my eyes.
Then I performed the part of sentinel, when the hours seemed as long as the time of repose had been short, and it was as if the night had passed before Master Hunter came to announce that the moment for action had arrived.
Then he went back, leaving me with the blood bounding through my veins, and my heart throbbing violently, for I believed that one or more of us would soon be in another world.
As had been agreed upon, Master Howell and Sidney made ready the horses, and the wordswere passed to the front veranda that that post be vacated.
Now we moved swiftly, mounting the horses while they were within the makeshift of a stable, and when all were in the saddle Master Howell paused to say:
"I will lead the way, then comes Clare, Sidney, and lastly Hunter. Ride in close order, and at full speed."
The indentured servant stood near the door, yet holding the money which had been paid him according to promise, and our leader rode out into the darkness.
At a foot pace we went around the building, until coming to the path leading into the road, when Master Howell struck the spurs deep, his horse darting off like an arrow sent from a bow.
At that same instant came the crack of a rifle; I heard the ball whistling a few inches above my head, and said to myself that if the enemy shot as well as that in the beginning, they must succeed in winging all of us before we were well under way.
The fever of excitement was so great upon methat I cannot well say exactly what happened during five minutes after we emerged from the stable.
I only know that a volley of musketry rang out; that I fired point-blank at a man who suddenly appeared from out a clump of bushes, and cheered when he fell. Then it was as if a fierce conflict was being waged all around us, and that we rode through the showers of bullets until gaining the main road, when our animals stretched themselves to the race.
I came out from the dream into which I had been plunged, when Master Howell shouted to know who had been hurt, and each in turn declared that he was not even scratched.
It seemed almost impossible we could have come through that shower of bullets without being riddled, yet such was the case, and then I wondered whether the horses had fared as well.
My steed was going true; I could feel the play of his muscles beneath me, and knew beyond a peradventure that he like myself was yet sound in wind and limb.
"They aimed too high!" Master Howell cried exultantly. "If the scoundrels had turned their attention to crippling the animals, our chances would have been slim. Huzza for the Regulation!"
Then we four who had ridden out from the shadow of death gave voice to our triumph, and from the rear came a yell of rage, telling us that it yet remained to shake off the pursuers who were bent on taking us, dead or alive.
"Keep your horses well in hand," Master Hunter cried. "There's a long race ahead of us, and we must not wind the beasts."
Our leader set the pace, riding only to keep beyond rifle range, and we four came alongside each other until we filled the road so completely that had any unfortunate been ahead on foot we must have trampled him down.
It was possible now to converse, and I fancied also that the animals traveled more easily by thus being in company.
When an hour had passed and we were come to a stream, the deputies and I dismounted, standing side by side in the road, while Sidney gavethe horses water enough to wet their throats, and loosened the girths that they might regain their wind, for all four were well nigh blown.
We there stood ready to fire in case the pursuers came up before the steeds were ready for the road again, and word had been passed that we should give our attention to crippling the enemy's horses rather than the men.
During fifteen minutes did we remain with rifles in hand ready to be drawn to the shoulder at the first show of a pursuer, and then the chase was resumed.
We had gained a long start of Governor Tryon's minions; but the halt would enable him to cut down the advantage, and again we rode at racing speed until once more it became necessary to halt.
In this manner was the night spent; we favoring the faithful animals as much as possible, and while they rested, standing shoulder to shoulder ready for a battle.
When morning dawned we could see no signs of the enemy in the road, and this fact troubled me not a little, because I feared that they hadtaken a short cut unknown to us, and we would soon find them in advance to check our flight.
By riding until nearly noon we arrived at the plantation of William Payne, on whom Master Howell could rely fully, and here we came to a halt, counting to give the horses a long rest.
Our host had two sons, and with such an accession to our numbers we were not greatly dismayed by the prospect of another siege, therefore we dismounted, and my timorousness vanished as I realized that we were now so far from Brunswick there was little fear but that word could be sent to the members of the association even though we should be disabled.
While we ate dinner, which had been hurriedly prepared, and the sons of our host cared for our leg-weary steeds, Master Howell told all the story of our adventures, and the owner of the plantation proposed that one of his boys take a fresh horse for the purpose of making his way to Maddock's Mill with the tidings.
After some little discussion our deputiesagreed to this proposition, and before we stretched ourselves out to sleep the lad rode away, counting to change horses at the house of a friend, forty miles distant.
Our mission was thus virtually accomplished, and we composed ourselves for slumber with the satisfaction of knowing that the duty due the association was the same as performed.
Our host and his son agreed to stand watch while we slept, and nothing disturbed us until well into the night, when I was aroused by hearing the owner of the plantation as he entered the room to awaken the deputies. Then I overheard the following conversation:
"Your pursuers are here. The hoof-prints of your horses could be plainly seen on the lane, and all hands were in front of the house before seeming to realize the situation."
"Where are they now?" Master Howell asked quietly as he arose with difficulty from the bed, for his joints were stiff and lame after the hard race.
"I forbade their coming nearer, and warned the party to leave my premises. They asked iftwo men and two lads were here, and I, fearing lest they might pursue my son, told them the truth."
"That was well done," Master Howell replied approvingly. "Now they may besiege us once more, and we will make no effort to get away unless, perchance, you object to our resisting the governor's servants from your house."
"Do as you will with me and mine. My wrongs are not less than yours, and now is the time when we of the Carolinas must prove ourselves men, or expect to remain under the yoke forever."
"You may be set down as a traitor to the king if we make this house our castle," Master Hunter suggested; but stout Master William Payne was not to be frightened.
"I can't say that I have any quarrel with the king himself; but against his representatives in the Carolinas my hand shall never be lowered. I aroused you only that you may be prepared in case an attack is made."
"We will let the boys sleep, while Hunterand I have a look around," our deputy said in a low voice, and the three men left the room softly, believing we lads were yet asleep.
When they were gone Sidney said as he turned to face me, for we had been sleeping in the same bed:
"So it seems that we are besieged again."
"Did you hear all Master Payne said?"
"Every word."
"We are like to make quite a halt here."
"And can well afford to do so, now that word has been sent on ahead. Young Payne will readily arrive at Maddock's Mill by to-morrow afternoon, if he gets a fresh horse during the night, and we shall soon have reinforcements enough to settle as many as have come."
"If we must fight to get back home, what will be the result once we arrive there?" I asked, a new fear coming over me.
"That is something concerning which we need not trouble ourselves for the present," Sidney replied carelessly.
"Then I'm of the mind that Fanning will speedily find a chance to clap us into jail on acharge of treason, unless the association holds together to the bitter end."
Such mournful conversation might have been continued a long while but for the fact that it was interrupted by a volley of musketry, succeeded by straggling shots which told that our people were replying only when they saw a target.
"It's to be a battle instead of a siege!" Sidney cried as he hurriedly dressed himself, I following his example; but the firing had ceased by the time we gained the kitchen, which apartment was directly below our chamber.
Here we found Master Howell and our host, one at the door and another peering out of a loophole cut in the shutters of a window, and I knew full well that Master Hunter and young Payne were on guard at the front of the building.
"Where can we be of service, sir?" I asked, and Master Payne replied with a grim laugh:
"I reckon you lads will not be needed, save, perhaps, to stand guard later. The gentlemen from Brunswick fired in order to learn if we were prepared to receive them, and I'll answerfor it that at least one knows to his cost that we're not to be caught napping."
"How many do they number?" Sidney asked, and Master Howell said gravely:
"Not less than a dozen. The reinforcements have evidently responded to the summons sent from our last halting place."
"We should be able to hold our own until some of the Regulators arrive?"
"Aye, lad, and that is causing me no little uneasiness. By protecting ourselves we shall be giving Tryon an excuse for breaking his word, and before this business comes to an end the upper Carolina will be overrun by the king's soldiers. It is beginning to be rebellion in good earnest!"
It appeared to me that Master Howell was trying to "lock his stable door after the horse had been stolen," when he mourned the fact that what we were doing in our own defense might be taken as open rebellion.
To my mind the people had rebelled openly and with emphasis when the Regulators rode, four hundred strong, to release Masters Husband and Hunter.
We four who had visited Brunswick to lay before the governor a petition couched in most respectful language, could not be accused of aiding and abetting rebellion when we objected to being shot down or taken prisoners by strangers who had no lawful warrant to deprive honest citizens of their lives or liberty.
As the matter presented itself to my view,those on the outside were the ones who acted in a rebellious manner, and there was no honest judge in the country who would not rule that we had every right to protect ourselves.
Something of this kind I said to Master Howell when he appeared to be bowed down with grief because, as he declared, our people were making a show of what might be called treason, and to my great surprise I found that we who were fighting our way from Brunswick to Hillsborough did not have any place in what it might please the governor to term "open rebellion."
"We four are of no consequence in the outcome of this matter," Master Howell said, condescending to explain to me the situation as it appeared to him, "and yet through us, or, rather, through our distress, will the king's officers most likely declare the upper Carolina under military rule. If we could continue our journey to Maddock's Mill without interruption, all would be well. Or, if we fought for our lives from this moment until we were killed or come to our journey's end, it would also be of no moment. That which distresses me is, that young Paynewill give the Regulators an account of our troubles, and those gentlemen will ride in full force to aid us. Then has come the time for Governor Tryon's minions to declare that the colony is in revolt, and the fact that four hundred armed men have banded together to regulate affairs outside their own country is fair proof that the cry of treason has good foundation."
"Well, and what then?" I made bold to say.
"Then will the king's troops be sent to Hillsborough and the surrounding towns. Fanning and Edwards can work their will on the people, with an armed force at their backs, and when the Regulators oppose the military it will be represented that the whole colony is in revolt."
"That was much the condition of affairs when we left Maddock's Mill," I ventured to suggest.
"Aye, lad; but then we had not opposed ourselves to the king's forces. Now it will be necessary to begin what can be called by no other name than that of treason."
"It alarms you that such should be the case, Master Howell?" I said in a questioning tone.
"Not for myself, lad, not for myself, nor for any of us who are brought to a stand in this house. It is the women and small children of whom I am thinking. We can fight to the bitter end; but they will suffer an hundred deaths while the English soldiers overrun the colony."
"Then would it have been better had we surrendered when we were first besieged."
It was as if this remark stimulated the deputy. His eyes brightened, he straightened himself suddenly, and said as if speaking to a vast assembly, instead of one timorous lad:
"Not so, Clare. I was but considering the sufferings of our own people, and that should not be reckoned as against the grand result. This is indeed open rebellion, and the news of our oppression will flash from province to province until the entire country is aroused. Then, perhaps not until after we are dead, but at some time in the near future, will the rule of the king come to an end in America. We are the instruments selected to begin the way for freedom, and in future ages we will be spoken of as those who brought into existence a free country whichshall be as a beacon light to those who are ground beneath the heel of selfish kings!"
From, that instant it was as if Master Howell's entire nature had changed. He appeared to be exulting in the danger which surrounded us, and was eager for the fray.
We stood watch until daylight, and then it was possible to see that Master Payne's dwelling was surrounded by fifteen or twenty men, some wearing uniforms, and others clad only in the garb of planters.
The fact of there being soldiers among our besiegers told plainly that Tryon himself planned the outrage, and when such was apparent I heard Master Hunter say in a low tone to Master Howell:
"From this day the Regulation will remain under arms until all the colonies are prepared to take up the struggle against the king's minions! Instead of 'Regulators' we should call ourselves 'Sons of Liberty.'"
And thus it was that the association known as Sons of Liberty sprang into existence at the home of a planter in the Carolinas—that associationwhich was speedily to extend throughout all the colonies as far east as Massachusetts, and south to the limits of the country.
As when we made the last stand, there was no disposition on the part of the enemy to make an attack. We had bettered our situation, and increased the number of rebels, therefore Tryon's minions probably believed it necessary to strengthen their ranks.
During this day we remained on guard and alert, while our enemies were posted just beyond rifle range in such manner as to encircle us completely.
By making a rush after dark, as had been done before, we might readily have broken through the thin line; in fact such a move was suggested by Sidney, but Master Howell said firmly as if he had finally committed his life and fortune to that final result he foresaw:
"We will wait for the Regulators. Since Tryon wishes to force us into open rebellion, he shall be gratified. Shoot down yonder villains if it so be you can; but here we remain until overpowered, or rescued by those who willspeedily come to avenge the wrongs which are perpetrated upon all the colony."
We had no opportunity to open fire on the enemy during the day; but when night came, and they drew more closely the circle of guards, we found a target now and then, thus reducing the number until I believe of a verity we might have ventured out and beat them off in a hand-to-hand fight.
It is not well that I spend too many words on the situation at the Payne plantation, for the story is one of careful watch only, with now and then the report of a rifle to tell that we were on the alert. The enemy took turns at using us for targets; but, sheltered as we were behind the walls, they did no injury, while I am confident we disabled not less than four during the time of our arrival and noon of the third day.
Then we saw a cloud of dust in the distance, heard the shouts of horsemen, and soon saw a body of gentlemen full four hundred strong ride down like a whirlwind upon fugitives who had lately been our besiegers.
We sallied forth, and before the fray was come to an end our friends had seven prisoners. None were killed outright so far as I could learn; the remainder had taken the alarm in time to seek safety by flight, and our road to Maddock's Mill lay open before us.
Young Payne had discharged his mission well; the Regulation was in session considering an arrest which had been made for non-payment of taxes, and, waiting only long enough to secure a supply of provisions, had set off for our relief.
The entire party camped on the plantation that night, and before morning came, their plans for the future were fully formed.
It was decided that the gentlemen composing the Regulation should remain under arms until Governor Tryon fulfilled his promise, or ignored it altogether, and during this time of waiting all efforts should be directed toward protecting those who refused to pay the unjust tax.
On this evening Sidney and I were regularly admitted to the ranks of the Sons of Liberty, asif we were indeed men in age, and so wrought up was I by Master Howell's words, that I persuaded myself the colonies would speedily be freed from the rule of a master who had set over us such men as Tryon, Edwards and Fanning.
We left Master Payne's plantation next morning at sunrise, and in due time arrived at Maddock's Mill, where it had been decided the Regulation would have its headquarters.
It was no slight task to provide food and shelter for such a number; but once it was known that the governor evidently intended to play fast and loose with the people of our section, every one, including those who had not deemed it right to join the Regulation, set about bringing in stores of food for both men and horses. Then the men began building shelters, working in squads of five, three, or two, as was mutually agreed upon, and soon the neighborhood of Maddock's Mill resembled a military encampment.
The rebellion began to assume decided form.
As may be fancied, Sidney and I were camp-mates. We built for ourselves a lean-to whichwould shelter us from the rain at least, and in the rear of it made an enclosure into which the horses could be brought at night.
It was not believed safe for us to go home, even for a few hours, because Edwards and Fanning had men out in every direction picking up a victim here and there, and we lads knew full well that Sandy Wells would take full advantage of the opportunity in case he came upon us where we could not defend ourselves.
The Regulators were waiting to learn whether Tryon would keep the word given to the deputies, and a dull time of it we lads had meanwhile.
Since one day was passed much as another, with nothing by way of excitement save when news came of this or that high-handed proceeding on the part of the secretary and the attorney, I propose to set down here simply an account of the general happenings in the neighborhood.
The Regulators had scouts out in every direction, and therefore it was we learned, early in July, when we were heartily tired with lounging around camp while it seemed necessary the mostactive measures should be taken, that Governor Tryon, with an escort of an hundred and sixty soldiers, had arrived in Hillsborough.
This was in accordance with his promise, and those who hoped the colony would not be forced to resist the king's laws were filled with joy, particularly when the governor issued a proclamation declaring that he had come to right the wrongs complained of in the petition delivered to him at Brunswick.
Not a word in his official note to the people was said regarding the Regulators; but the citizens were requested to keep the peace until such time as the several complaints could be acted upon by the courts of law, and it was promised that if they remained quiet all should be done in accordance with the wishes of the majority.
When this proclamation was sent out over the colony there were many who urged that the Regulation be dissolved, lest the fact of so many armed men remaining together might be construed by the governor as outright treason.
As a matter of fact an hundred or more didleave the encampment, returning to their homes, and but for the earnest entreaties of General Hamilton, the deputies, my father, and several others, the Sons of Liberty would have dispersed simply because Tryon and his crew wished it so.
Before one week had passed after the issuance of the proclamation, it could readily be seen that our burdens were to be increased instead of lightened. Twenty or more of those who had left the Regulation and returned home were arrested for non-payment of the poll tax levied to build Tryon's palace.
Edwards and Fanning no longer spoke of pacifying, but of subduing, the people, and warrants were sworn out daily for the purpose of putting into prison those who were absolutely unable to pay the amount demanded.
Fanning's fees were increased until they amounted to ten times as much as the law allowed for court services, and the poor wretch with money or lands who fell into his hands was unmercifully shorn of all his possessions before being set free.
The wickedness was increased twenty-fold,and no man could say at what moment the prison-doors might open to receive him, save we who remained banded together in the encampment at Maddock's Mill.
Then Governor Tryon proceeded to frighten the wretched people by marching with his soldiers from Hillsborough to Mecklenburg, and there coaxing or scaring twenty or more timorous souls to enlist in the army he said should be raised to subdue "the rebellion in upper Carolina."
Then he marched to Salisbury and back to Hillsborough, enlisting recruits wherever men or lads could be cajoled or frightened, and, with an army of an hundred and sixty trained soldiers and about fifty feeble-minded colonists, he proceeded to play the part of king; but with rather poor success.
By this time such of the Sons of Liberty as had returned to their homes and were yet at liberty came back to Maddock's Mill prepared to remain until matters were of a different complexion, and once more the defenders of the colony presented a formidable front to the tyrant.
We numbered upwards of three hundred and eighty, and by advice of General Hamilton our camp was moved nearer Hillsborough in order that we might protect the country roundabout.
In answer to what he was pleased to term a "threat," on our part, Tryon called out the militia of the colony, threatening direst vengeance upon those who dare disregard the call. By such means he added twenty or more to his army, and once again were the sheriffs sent to collect taxes, each officer guarded by a squad of ten soldiers.
Now was come the time when the Regulation believed something more should be done than remaining idly in camp.
We were told off into squads of twenty-five, and day after day we rode here or there as our scouts reported the movements of the sheriff, driving back the officials and their guards as if they had been so many sheep.
When the guard of the tax-collectors were increased in numbers, our detachments were added to, and in every case we sent back the scurvy rascals. Sometimes they plucked up courage toexchange shots with us, when we always managed to disable one or more; but as a rule they beat a hasty retreat whenever we came in sight.
We had orders not to shoot unless we were attacked, and it was hard at times to obey, particularly when, in the course of our forays, Sidney and I saw Sandy Wells at the head of a dozen soldiers destroying the household goods of a widow with one son of seventeen, who could not pay the money demanded.
Before the middle of August, however, we made the governor and his crew understand that we were masters of that section of country, and instead of sending out sheriffs on fruitless errands, Tryon set about strengthening his position as if fearing we might attempt to capture Hillsborough.
That town was a fortified camp, and none of the royalists dared ride three miles in either direction.
It goes without saying that neither Edwards, Fanning, nor any member of the sheriff's posse trusted himself outside the town. General Hamilton had given orders that we were tocapture any of Tryon's officers which we might come across, and keen were all for such game.
I would willingly have given my horse and rifle, all the property I owned, for the privilege of bringing into camp as my prisoner the attorney Fanning. Although we were under strict orders not to shed blood, save in defense of our own, I question if that black-hearted lawyer's life would have been worth a moment's purchase once he was in our power.
Among Tryon's many proclamations at this time was one which stated that on the twenty-second of September would be begun the trials of those who were confined in jail for any offense, and without question the case of Masters Husband and William Hunter would then be called. It also pleased the representative of the king to declare that "since charges had been preferred against Edmund Fanning, attorney, he would be called upon to render an account of his doings."
No one among the Sons of Liberty believed the wretch who had caused so much misery would be regularly tried; but all were curious to see how Tryon might save his minion whenso many and such serious charges could, and would, be made against him.
I have tried to set down here an outline of what Sidney and I did during all that long summer while we waited for the royal governor to do us justice, which had been so long withheld. And by telling it in the fewest possible words, we are now come to three days before the time set for the trials, or, in other words, to the nineteenth of September, in the year of grace 1768.
The Sons of Liberty were resolved that there should be ample evidence against Fanning, whatever the cost, therefore from among the members of the association eight were selected who could swear truthfully that the attorney had defrauded them of several considerable sums of money.
It was believed that, unless protected in some manner, these witnesses would be arrested immediately they showed themselves in Hillsborough, therefore the officers of the Regulation prepared a paper stating that in case these men, whose names were set down therein, shouldbe interfered with in any manner while they were in town to serve as witnesses, the Regulators would immediately make an assault. It was further stated that the lives of the governor and his associates depended entirely upon the manner in which our people were treated, for it would be the duty of every Son of Liberty to seek out the principal officials during the assault, for the purpose of shooting them down.
This was open rebellion, and no mistake; but in order to prevent Tryon from declaring that we had intimidated the courts of justice, there was added to the document the agreement that no member of the association would interfere in any manner whatsoever with the judges or the officials of the court, while the cases were being conducted in a way agreeably with the laws of the king.
This document was sent to the governor by one of our scouts who, going into town, secretly gave it to a royalist for transmission, and, before it could be delivered the venturesome man had rejoined us.
Nor was this all the association did in order tosecure fair and impartial trials for Fanning as well our friends.
It was decided by the association in council, that while we remained at such a distance from Hillsborough Tryon might take upon himself the risk of conducting matters without regard to our just demands; therefore the camp was moved once more, and this time to a small hill overlooking the town, and hardly more than half a mile from the court-house.
Here we felled trees to serve as breastworks, and otherwise guarded against an attack, for many of us believed that as soon as the Sons of Liberty showed themselves, the so-called king's forces would make a desperate attack, alleging as the reason therefor that they were in fear we might attempt to take possession of the town.
It was on the morning of the twentieth of September when we rode up the hill in full view of Governor Tryon's forces; but no demonstration was made against us. The people could see that we were preparing to resist an attack; but they remained as if paralyzed with astonishment.
Near nightfall came a mounted soldier bearing a white flag, who demanded in the governor's name the reason for our display of force, and General Hamilton replied to the question.
"This is no display of force," he said. "We have come as citizens of upper Carolina to safeguard several witnesses, and have no mind to interfere in any way with the proceedings. Say to Governor Tryon that we shall remain until the close of the session, and that never a man of us will ride into town while the people are given the rights accorded to them by the king and parliament. If, however, there should be an attempt to deprive a witness of his liberty, we shall ride down like a whirlwind, carrying out to the utmost the plan which we have already had the honor to submit to the governor."
The man rode back, and before night came we could see that Tryon's residence was guarded by three-score men, a fact which caused Master Howell to say scornfully:
"I wonder if the coward thinks to save himself from our vengeance, with sixty recruits? We will overturn them, if there be any act oftreachery, before William Tryon can sign his name!"
After that we waited in anxious suspense, but constantly on the alert, for the day when law and order would be established in upper Carolina, or it might be known beyond a peradventure that we must depend upon ourselves entirely for liberty and the opportunity to live upon our own lands.
As early as sunrise on the morning of September twenty-first, twenty-eight hours or more before the time set for the trial of our friends, the people from the country roundabout began to gather, every man, woman and child eager to learn at the earliest possible moment what might be the outcome of this first attempt to check the course of the king's minions.
Before nightfall it was said that there were not less than three thousand people in and around Hillsborough. On every hand as far as the eye could reach, the visitors were camped; some brought two or three bed-quilts, which they put up on crotched sticks and a long sapling as a ridge-pole, a tent that was made to accommodate as many as could crawl beneath it. Others utilized their carts as sleeping quarters, the body of the vehicle serving as the upperstory of the dwelling, and the ground immediately beneath it as the ground floor; to the wheels were tethered the horses or oxen, and he who slept in the "chamber" of such a lodging was in danger of being awakened many times while the cattle munched at the hay which served as a bed.
Now a few of the visitors reckoned on sleeping upon the ground wherever darkness overtook them, and many there were who had believed it would be possible to get a shelter in the town, never dreaming that nearly every man, woman and child in upper Carolina would come to the trial, during which was to be settled the question of their individual rights.
Some of the visitors had brought with them a goodly supply of provisions, while others, more improvident, came with nothing save a hearty appetite, and these last went from party to party asking food as of right, until all appeared to be supplied.
Every house in the town was filled to overflowing, so I was told, at nine o'clock on the morning of the day before the trial was to takeplace. Every tree which could be seen from our camp had one or more beneath the shelter of its branches, and in order to prevent our encampment from being literally over-run, it was necessary to station fifty men as guards to keep back our friends.
Take it all in all it was such a sight as I had never seen before, and do not expect to witness again. I had not believed there were so many people in the upper Carolina as were now gathered here, and every one appeared to be feverishly eager to make certain Masters Husband and Hunter would receive a fair trial.
Sidney and I had come off from sentinel duty at sunrise, when the crowd began to pour in, and we stood literally fascinated by the scene, never so much as thinking of breakfast, until the forenoon was nearly half spent, by which time the valley between us and the town was densely packed with human beings.
"I wonder what Tryon thinks of this scene?" my comrade said musingly as he looked across the sea of heads from which came a perfect Babel of noise. "He must realize by this timethat his imitation army could not make much progress against such a gathering."
"Aye, and yet it is to his advantage, if he counts on playing us false," I replied, seized by a sudden thought. "The Regulators could not enter the town whatever might be the necessity for their so doing, save at the expense of trampling hundreds beneath the feet of their horses."
"That is a danger which I had not considered," my comrade said with a long indrawing of the breath as when one brings himself to face a sudden and immediate danger. "Governor Tryon is guarded by his enemies, and yet if they turned upon him he would be swept from off the face of the earth like so much chaff before the wind."
"The disaster would be appalling if these people should take it into their heads to rise against him!" I cried, shuddering as if the work of slaughter was about to begin. "The soldiers could mow great swaths through the crowd at every discharge of their muskets, and hundreds would be killed before the remainder found space in which to move."
"He will not dare work an injustice upon the prisoners!" Sidney cried after a long pause, and I, sickening as I realized what might happen if a sudden panic arose, or in case an act of violence was committed, drew my comrade away from contemplation of the scene, as I said:
"Why speculate as to possibilities? No disaster can come upon them during this day at least, and there is time enough in which to cross a bridge when we have arrived at it. Let us go in search of something to eat."
It was not necessary to spend very much time in this last quest; each visitor who had relatives among the Regulators brought something in the way of provisions as a treat, with the result that our larder was filled to running over, and it was almost impossible to take a dozen steps in either direction without receiving a hearty invitation "to have something from home."
Up to this time none of Sidney's relatives or mine had put in an appearance, and I was feeling decidedly disappointed, although I had no good reason for believing that my mother wouldcome all the way from Alamance simply to learn what might be the result of Governor Tryon's investigations.
When we had satisfied our hunger, however, and were about to visit General Hamilton's headquarters in order to learn whether we would be called upon for further guard duty that day, I was rejoiced beyond words to see my mother, in company with Sidney's parents, looking here and there anxiously, disappointed at not readily finding father or myself.
It is not necessary to say that within a very few seconds I was clasped in her dear arms, and for the time being I almost forgot that such a tyrant as Tryon ever had an existence.
When I had spent an hour in her company, my father joined us, and at the same moment Sidney shouted for me to come with him—where, I did not at the instant understand.
"It is my intention to stay very near my mother this day," I said petulantly, as he went toward the river even while I was advancing. "She will be setting out for home immediately after the trials have been brought to a close,and I have no idea of wasting even a moment which might be spent in her company."
"Give her a chance to talk with your father," Sidney said laughingly. "It appears to me as if the visitors were in some mischief down this way, and I cannot find any of the Regulators who are willing to look into the matter."
"If it was of consequence there would be no lack of men to attend to it," I said petulantly, and then I became interested immediately as I saw a throng of an hundred or more, who appeared to be deeply intent upon something in their midst.
"Most likely they are having some kind of a game," Sidney said when I came alongside; "but just before you showed yourself I fancied I heard cries for help, and it seems as if we should know the reason for the gathering. Unless we of the association have our eyes about us this day there will be rough play which may develop into a fight, as I heard General Hamilton say."
By this time we were among those of the throng who were in the outer ring, and I heardsuch cries as: "Drown the scoundrel!" "Be sure he don't get away till we from Chatham have put our mark on him!" "He's needed a lesson this many a day, and now is the time to give it to him!"
The crowd was so dense as each member of it pressed toward the center, that Sidney and I were forced to literally fight our way forward, and no less than ten minutes were spent in such task, during which time we plainly heard cries for help in a voice which sounded strangely familiar to me.
Then, finally, we were in the very midst of the gathering, and had before us what promised to be a tragedy which might bring shame and reproach upon us all, unless it was speedily checked.
As many men as could seize upon him, held in their grasp Sandy Wells, whose legs and arms were tied securely, and whose clothing had been torn to tatters by the rough usage he had received.
His captors were industriously engaged in kicking him when we gained a place by hisside, and at every blow they called aloud the name of some citizen of the Carolinas who had been ill-treated at his hands.
"We're going to square accounts for all our neighbors, and then dump you in the river," one of the men cried vindictively, and I could see a huge rock, around which was a rope, lying near at hand to fasten on his body when the tormentors were ready to put an end to their victim.
Now it cannot be supposed that either Sidney or I had any affection for the sheriff's officer; but yet we could not stand idly by while he was being murdered.
In addition to such pity as common humanity dictated, it suddenly occurred to me that if the mob killed an officer of the law the Regulation would be accused by Governor Tryon of having committed the deed, and then would be good reason why the entire upper portion of the colony should be put under strict martial rule. If this murder was done the Sons of Liberty would be branded as assassins, and with some reason, therefore I whispered to Sidney, although without the slightest idea as to how we two mightprevent the enraged men from working their will:
"We must put an end to this, and that right quickly, else will the man be killed before our eyes."
There was in his mind the same thought as had come into mine, and he turned to look me full in the face as he said, almost shouting in order that I might hear the words above the uproar:
"It may cost us our lives to interfere! I do not recognize any of these men, and they will refuse to listen."
At this moment Sandy Wells caught sight of us, and, stretching out his bound hands, cried imploringly:
"Save me, lads! For God's sake don't allow me to be murdered!"
"That we won't!" I cried, suddenly forgetting that I was running my nose into very serious danger until we could make that maddened desperate mob understand who we were, which last would require some time while the tumult was so great.
Forcing myself with a rush between two of those who had a hold upon Sandy, I seized the prisoner by the arm as I cried with the full force of my lungs:
"You are ruining the cause of freedom when you lay violent hands upon this man! Have a care, or there'll be mischief done to more than him!"
I had hardly finished speaking before half a dozen rushed forward, one seizing me by the throat, despite all Sidney's efforts to hold him back, and crying:
"Here's another of Tryon's friends! we'll drop him into the stream to bear the tax-collector company!"
I tried in vain to speak; but the fellow had my throat as if in a vise, and it was impossible to so much as whisper.
As the mob pressed yet further I was forced downward until I lay across Sandy's body, and Sidney strove valiantly to make himself heard as he cried:
"He whom you have there is Clare Butler, one of the Regulators! I am Sidney Hubbard,also a member of the association! Do you hear? We are of the Regulation, and are trying to prevent you from bringing yet greater wrongs upon the colony!"
Before it was possible for Sidney to utter many words the men had bound me hand and foot, after the same fashion as was Sandy, and at that moment I believed, and feel certain to this day, that death was very near me. It was only a question as to whether my comrade could make himself heard before I was pitched overboard.
Already I could hear shouts from those in the rear demanding that I be "finished" before Sandy's score was paid off, and more than one threatened to take a hand in the business if it was not brought to a speedy close.
"Drown the villain! Let Tryon understand that he can't play fast and loose with us!" one of the crowd shouted, and another added:
"Waste no time over him; but let us pay our dues to the tax-collector while he is drowning."
Those in the rear were so eager to expedite matters that they flung themselves forward untilthe men who held me were forced to turn and defend themselves lest they be trodden under foot, and this temporary delay, I firmly believe, was all that saved my life.
Had the members of the mob not fought with each other to gain a better place in which to witness the spectacle, of a verity I would have been flung into the river.
"We are two lads who acted as escort to the deputies when they went to Brunswick!" Sidney shouted during a momentary lull in the tumult, and one of those nearest him caught the import of the words.
"Who are you?" the man cried, and Sidney replied, yelling in the fellow's ear to make certain the words were understood:
"Regulators! Members of the association! But for the lad you are threatening to drown, the deputies might not have escaped from those whom Tryon sent in pursuit of us!"
Now it was Sidney had assistance in his efforts to procure for us a hearing, for the man set about making his neighbor acquainted with the facts, and in a twinkling a third understoodthat they had been trying to kill their friends.
When perhaps five minutes had passed, and time moved slowly to me who was expecting each instant that some impatient one would pitch me over the river bank, those in the middle of the throng came to know what we had been trying to tell them, and in a very few seconds afterward I was released from my bonds.
"It was a close shave for you," he who had been holding me by the throat said, as I stood before him gasping for breath. "We made certain you were trying to save the tax-collector."
"That is exactly what we were doing," I replied, speaking with difficulty because my windpipe was sore from the pressure so lately put upon it.
"Then you must be friendly to Tryon, else you would not speak a good word for that villain whom we count on killing as we would a rat!"
"It must not be done!" I cried frantically, raising my voice so that those in the immediate vicinity might hear. "If you kill him it will be said that it was done by orders of the Regulation,and Tryon will have right on his side when he overruns the country with soldiers. To raise your hands against an officer of the county is to weave a noose for those brave men in prison who will look to-morrow for your assistance! Nothing would please Tryon better than to have a reasonable excuse for throwing us all into jail!"
Then, as my voice failed, Sidney took up the theme:
"How much do you harm Tryon by killing Sandy Wells? The governor cares nothing about such as he, and would gladly reward the man who, by committing murder almost in the encampment of the Regulators, should give the king's minions power over us! Turn the tax-collector over to us. We will take him to General Hamilton, who is bound to see that he be held a prisoner, and to-morrow, if Tryon and Fanning play us false, we shall have one on whom to retaliate."
"Keep him till to-morrow!" a voice cried, and straightway I began to have hope that we might finally succeed in our purpose.
Some of the mob came to understand thatwhich we would beat into their thick skulls, and with the knowledge of what the murder of a king's officer might mean for all in that section, whether innocent or guilty, came the impulse to wash their own hands of any participation in the outrage.
For the time being they forgot their victim while discussing each with another the situation as we had shown it, and now was come the time when I could cut Sandy's bonds.
"Get to your feet and keep close behind Sidney and me," I whispered. "Do as I bid you, and it may be that we three can make our way inside the lines of the encampment."
"I'll do whatever you say," Sandy replied in the tone of one whose life has just been saved, as indeed his had, and I whispered in Sidney's ear, for the tumult had so far subsided that it was possible to speak with some degree of privacy:
"Work gradually toward the encampment while you talk. If we can attract the attention of the Regulators our point is gained."
Then I turned to argue with the man nearestme, showing him how much it would advantage us if we could have the tax-collector as our prisoner until the trial in the court had come to an end, and all the while pressing gently forward, step by step, toward our line of guards.
Sandy, knowing that his only chance for life was in keeping close to us lads, for if he had attempted to gain the village an hundred hands would have been laid upon him in anger, obeyed my commands to the letter, pressing me so hard at times that I found it difficult to keep my footing.
In this manner we succeeded, after more than an hour had passed, in approaching within twenty feet of the encampment line, and the remainder of the task was simple.
We had but to attract the attention of the guard, and in a twinkling half a dozen Regulators were on the spot.
Hurriedly I told our friends of what had been on foot, and Sandy Wells was marched directly within the lines, while those who would follow were forced by the guards to keep their distance.
The men who had come to our rescue believed it proper the prisoner should be taken to that lean-to known as "headquarters," and soon the miserable wretch was telling his story to our commander.
"Why did you show yourself such a simpleton as to venture into the midst of those whom you had harassed?" the old general asked with a laugh, for I believe he was secretly pleased at seeing the tax-collector in such a plight.
"I came across the river to speak with some friends of mine who were come——" Sandy began, and one of our party interrupted him by saying:
"I didn't suppose you had a friend outside of Hillsborough, and but precious few in the town!"
"This was a family from Chatham whom I have known many years——"
"I venture to say you never tried to collect illegal taxes from them!"
"Let the man tell the story," General Hamilton interrupted, and Sandy continued:
"They were so near the town that I didn'tthink any one would dare lay hands on me; but before I was comfortably seated under their wagon half a dozen men seized me. I was dragged up the stream to that point where the bank is high and steep, and there the life was nearly kicked out of me."
Sandy concluded the story by explaining how we had chanced to go to his rescue, and what happened after we arrived at the scene.
"You two lads have done well!" the old general said emphatically. "It would have been a sorry day's work for the people in this section if yonder rascal had been killed. The one question now in my mind is, what we shall do with him. I don't want such scurvy knaves in camp."
Hearing this Sandy dropped on his knees, begging the general not to send him outside the lines of the encampment lest he be killed, and, after waiting a moment without hearing anything by way of suggestion as to what should be done with the fellow, Sidney said:
"If it please you, Master Hamilton, Clare and I will take charge of him until to-morrow.I think he will do as we command, and it's only a question of keeping him away from the visitors."
"You may take him and welcome," the general said in a tone of relief. "It may not be safe to make too great a display of the rascal even in camp, for we have among us many whom he has wofully distressed."
"Always acting under orders, sir, always under orders!" Sandy cried, yet on his knees.
"You would be more of a man if you took your orders from a different source," the general said sharply, and then motioned for us to lead him away.
"You lads have saved my life," Sandy began when we three were walking toward the lean-to Sidney and I had built, "and if I can ever do anything in return, you shall understand that I know how to be grateful."
"We've done nothing for which we expect to be rewarded," Sidney replied with a gesture of impatience. "You can't fancy that we bear you any very good-will, therefore what we did was for the good of the colony."
"Never mind why you did it; I shall never forget what I owe."
Then we were come to the lean-to, and once there the question arose as to what we should do with our charge. If he was left to wander around the encampment alone, some of the men would undoubtedly ill-treat him, and we were not disposed to waste time which should be spent in the company of our dear ones, looking after him.
It was Sandy himself who solved the question for us, by saying:
"Leave me here; I can hide beneath the brush which forms your bed, and you may be certain I shan't be such a fool as to venture out."
It was a good idea, and after he had burrowed beneath the pine branches until no trace of him could be seen, I went to seek my mother.