“Where could we expect to find any _grandes dames_ or any examples of gentlemen? We know too well already what would become of a nation ruled by shopkeepers and bushwhackers. I can see no virtue in the so-called schemes of self-government; society could never submit to such indignities. We would have to go to England to escape from such a rabble,” was the bitter homily of Mrs. Arnold, as she spoke in well measured language, and showed the fire of her dark eyes, and the charms of her long lashes and beautiful neck. “Bravo, madam,” was the challenge of Mr. Wilson, the lawyer, as he lifted his wine-glass, and all the gentlemen followed to drink to the sentiments of General Arnold’s blushing bride. As the General drained his glass, he beamed with satisfaction; the attention paid his bride tickled the vanity of his nature. “I am convinced,” remarked Roderick Barclugh, “that if all the ladies could so successfully convince their friends, the war would soon be over.” “Yes, and it will soon be over if Congress does not change for the better the treatment of the army,”--said Arnold, pointing to himself, while everybody laughed. “There is no gratitude for soldiers in a government by the people,” said Arnold. “You will receive the plaudits of a great people, as an heritage to your children, General,” slyly, with a chuckle, put in Judge Shippen, his father-in-law. “Yes, but applause does not buy bread and butter and pay the bills, Judge,” was Arnold’s reply. “But patriots should restrict their needs of money for the sake of their country,” was the advice of the Reverend Mr. White, the Rector of St. Peter’s Church. “Certainly, but patriotism, like patience, ceases to be a virtue when one’s family must suffer ignominiously as a consequence,” was the rejoinder of the Commander of Philadelphia. “But, my dear General,” said Miss Greydon, “what would our cause do if it were not for the sacrifices of our noble mothers, who say to their sons: ‘Take this Bible and keep it in your breast as your guide; care not for me. God will care for the brave and true; pursue your destiny and return not till the tyrant is driven from our shores,’--like the Spartan mother who said: ‘Come back with your shield or upon it.’” “Ah, Miss Greydon,” said Arnold, “such sentiment is very fine, but very poor business.” “Ha, ha! that’s it, that’s it. There’s far too much sentiment in our ideas of government,” said the lawyer, Wilson. “Sentiment can never overcome Britain’s power and wealth.” Now that the dinner was well along, and Miss Greydon saw that if any one was to show loyalty to the cause of the Colonies at this gathering of choice aristocratic spirits, she must assume the task, thus she essayed to reply to the lawyer: