In especial, we beseech thee to give the victory to him that hath right, and to 'stablish the foundations of the government in justice and truth, giving liberty of conscience and liberty of law to those who know how to use it." At this point the worship of the evening was arrested by a slight knocking at the door. "Who goes there?" exclaimed the old man, starting from his kneeling position. "Who raps at my door?" "A stranger, good man," replied a voice without. "A poor fellow that has been hot pressed and hard run." "Friend or foe?" asked Allen Musgrove. "A very worthless friend to any man at this present speaking," replied the person on the outside of the door; "and not fit to be counted a foe until he has had something to eat. If you be Allen Musgrove, open your door." "Are you alone, or do you come with followers at your heels? My house is small and can give scant comfort to many?" "Faith, it is more than I know," responded the other; "but if I have followers it is not with my will that they shall cross your door-sill. If you be Allen Musgrove, or if you be not, open, friend. I am as harmless as a barndoor fowl." "I do not fear you, sir," said Musgrove, opening the door; "you are welcome to all I can give you, whatever colors you serve." "Then give us your hand," said Horse Shoe Robinson, striding into the apartment. "You are a stranger to me, but if you are Allen Musgrove, the miller, that I have hearn men speak of, you are not the person to turn your back on a fellow creature in distress. Your sarvent, mistress," he added, bowing to the dame. "Far riding and fast riding gives a sort of claim these times; so excuse me for sitting down." "You are welcome, again; your name, sir?" said Musgrove. "Have I guessed yours?" inquired Horse Shoe. "You have." "Then you must guess mine; for it isn't convenient to tell it." "Some poor Whig soldier," said Christopher Shaw privately to Musgrove. "It isn't right to make him betray himself. You are hungry, friend," added Christopher; "and we will first get you something to eat, and then you may talk all the better for it." "That's a good word," said Horse Shoe, "and a brave word, as things go; for it isn't every man has the courage to feed an enemy in these days, though I made the devils do it for me this morning, ha, ha, ha! Some water, Mr. Musgrove, and it will not come badly to my hand if you can tangle it somewhat."