trouble at home are just those who, when the time comes, make the
best fighters. I would rather have half a dozen of your reckless
blades, when the pinch comes, than a score of honest plowboys. How
do you propose that I shall take them?"

"That I will leave entirely to you," the mayor said; "here is a
list of the houses where they lodge. I will place the town watch
at your disposal to show you the way and to point out the men to
you."

"That will be all I shall require," the officer said; "but you can
give me a list of those who are most likely to give trouble. These
I will pounce upon and get on board ship first of all. When they
are secured I will tell my men off in parties, each with one of
your constables to point out the men, and we will pick them up so
many every evening. It is better not to break into houses and seize
them; for, although we are acting legally and under the authority
of act of parliament, it is always as well to avoid giving cause
of complaint, which might tend to excite a feeling against the war
and make the government unpopular, and which, moreover, might do
you harm with the good citizens, and do me harm with those above
me. I am sure you agree with me."

"Quite so, quite so," the mayor said hastily; "you speak very
prudently and well, sir. I hope you will honor me by taking up your
abode in my house during your stay here; but may I ask you not to
allow my wife, who is inquisitive by nature, to see the list with
which I furnish you? Women are ever meddling in matters which
concern them not."