"Is the right worshipful Governor at home so that he may be seen?"
inquired the stranger, as he dismounted from the horse, whose bridle
was held by one of the soldiers.

"He is at home, and may be seen, Sir Christopher," replied one of the
men, "I will conduct you to his presence."

So saying, the soldier opened the door, and preceding the visitor,
ushered him into a hall some ten feet wide, and thence into a small
ante-room, or room of reception, where he was entreated to be seated,
while his arrival should be announced. It required but a moment, which
was the whole time of the soldier's absence, for the stranger to take
a survey of the room wherein he sat.

It was not more than twelve or fifteen feet square, and destitute of
paper or hangings, and the floor, like that of the hall, was bare, and
made of coarsely-planed boards. It had two doors, one opening into the
hall and another into an adjoining room, and was lighted by a single
window. Its furniture consisted of only a few wooden chairs and
benches.

"The right worshipful Governor directs me to invite you to him," said
the messenger, throwing open the second door above mentioned.

The stranger rose, and crossing with a stately step the ante-chamber,
followed the soldier into the adjoining apartment.

"Welcome, Sir Christopher," exclaimed the Governor, rising from a
desk, at which he had been writing, and advancing with extended hand
to his visitor, "I am honored in seeing you again in my poor house."