“Unless he tries to run another cargo to Eastham; then I may have the pleasure, Fotheringay. For the present, we will not bother ourselves about his return.” “Very well, sir; I shall now deliver your orders to Captain Mayo.” CHAPTER XI. An Argument. The trusty pedler made no unnecessary delay on his return journey from Provincetown. The sandy road somewhat retarded his progress, but Master Walker’s horse was a good one and needed little urging. There were, of course, some necessary explanations to be made to the Provincetown committee, and the worthy citizens who had charge of affairs in that place were much disturbed when they got confirmation of the rumor that the British were fully determined to assume the offensive in earnest. So far as Provincetown was directly concerned, Raggett’s change of front would not materially add to the troubles of the inhabitants, who were already completely at the enemy’s mercy. But for their neighbors and friends in the other towns of the lower Cape, Master Jonathan Cook and his colleagues were deeply concerned. “You will tell them at Eastham, Phil,” said the chairman, “that we regret our inability to be of any assistance to them. Our own poor town is in a sad plight and I fear me if this war continues much longer we shall have a repetition of the exodus of Revolutionary times.” “An’ sure I will, Master Cook, an’ sorry I am to see this fine town in such a bad state. ’Twas mighty aisy for a poor man to make a dacint livin’ here a few years ago when the fishin’ was bringin’ loads o’ money to the people. But now, God help us! the good days are gone an’ nobody has any money more than they want for thimselves.” “That’s so, Phil. However, we hear that our privateers are doing great damage to the enemy’s commerce, and when John Bull finds his trade in danger he will want the war stopped.” With many expressions of sympathy, they bade the pedler Godspeed. When Peter Walker heard Phil’s story he lost no time in informing the Committee of Safety. It was too late that evening to call a public meeting, but there was a crowded attendance at Crosby’s tavern and Phil the Fifer was eagerly questioned regarding his interview with Hoppy. “I reckon Hoppy felt rather miserable, Phil? How did he like the idea of acting as pilot?” asked Obed Sparrow. “To tell you the truth, Master Sparrow,” replied Phil, “Captain Mayo didn’t like the position; but as to bein’ miserable, well, I don’t think it’s his nature to feel so at any time.” “It’s a wonder that British officer did not suspect something.” “Oh, Lieutenant Jameson is a rale gintleman, an’ he knows, besides, that old Phil wouldn’t desave him!” The old man’s innocent expression as he said this caused general laughter. “If he should hear the result of your visit, Phil, he won’t be so confiding the next time,” said Squire Knowles.