An Unwilling Maid - Being the History of Certain Episodes during the American - Revolution in the Early Life of Mistress Betty Yorke, born Wolcott by Jeanie Gould Lincoln
page 45 of 184 (24%)
page 45 of 184 (24%)
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man should make some difference, I think, in his treatment; I must try
to persuade Oliver to detain him here until my brother's return, for although I did not think it prudent to say so, I confess I am no more anxious to keep him prisoner than Betty was." But Miss Euphemia had not more than descended at half past seven precisely (her usual hour) when Oliver came hastily into the room, demanding a hammer and chisel, and with such evident dismay upon his countenance that Miss Euphemia asked if anything was the matter. "I do not know," said Oliver, searching the drawer for the desired implements; "I called and knocked smartly at Captain Yorke's door to ask him if he desired hot water, and to offer him a change of clean linen (as we are much the same size and build); but although I made sufficient noise to wake the hardest sleeper, no response did I receive. Then I unbolted the door, intending to enter, but he has fastened it on the inside, and"-- "He is ill," cried Miss Euphemia, in alarm. "I noted he looked pale last night." "Much more likely 'tis some device to alarm us," said Oliver, seizing the chisel, and Miss Euphemia followed him as he went hurriedly up the front staircase. At its top stood Huntington. "Captain Yorke is a sound sleeper," he said, addressing Oliver. "I have knocked at his door several times and get no response." "My mind misgives me," said Oliver, fitting his chisel in the door and striking vigorously with the hammer; "and yet I made sure there was no |
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