The Hidden Children by Robert William Chambers Chapter 3 Page 2

their powder and their skins, and nobody but a fool would ride hither in such a storm. And Tarleton is no fool, nor am I, either; and that’s flat!” It was not as flat as his own forehead.

“Do you mean that I am a fool to march my men back here from Lewisboro?” demanded Colonel Thomas sharply, making to rise from his seat by the empty fireplace.

Duels had sprung from less provocation than had been given by Colonel Sheldon. Mr. Hunt very mildly interposed; and a painful scene was narrowly averted because of Colonel Thomas’s cold contempt for Sheldon, which I think Captain Fancher shared.

Major Lockwood, coming in at the moment, flung aside his dripping riding cloak.

“Sir,” said he to Sheldon,