"In the province from which I have come we believe the remedy for
oppression to be among ourselves, sir," Walter replied, modestly.

"So it is, lad; and may you be one not lacking in wholesome love for your
country when the time for action arrives."

I fear a boy like me will be of but little service."

"The boys may be men before the time for stirring deeds shall come,"
Master Revere said, much as if speaking to himself; and then he added,
quickly, "You will break your fast with me."

Walter was not accustomed to such a meal as was speedily placed before
him; but the novelty of his surroundings did not prevent him from doing
full justice to the food.

When the master of the house set out to perform the duty expected of him
by his friends in Portsmouth, young John took charge of the guest, and
from that time until nearly noon Walter feasted his eyes upon such wonders
as he had never even dreamed about.

His first visit was to the magnificent building presented to the city by
Peter Faneuil, and then to that elm at the head of Essex Street beneath
the branches of which the association known as the Sons of Liberty had
sprung into existence.

Here young Revere told him what had occurred during the month of August,
when on the tree he was then gazing at had been found hanging an effigy of
Andrew Oliver, his majesty's distributor of stamps for the Province of