"Do you order us to sign?" said Barker, apparently willing to find in
this appearance of duress an excuse for yielding.

"Not at all," replied Perez. "If you think you can make better terms
with the people for yourselves, you are welcome to try. I should judge
from the racket that they're on the point of coming in."

There was a hoarse howl from without, and Justices Goodrich, Barker
and Whiting simultaneously grabbed for the pen. Their names were
affixed in a trice.

"Will your honor sign?" said Perez to Dwight, who stood before the
fireplace, silently regarding the proceedings. His first ebullition of
rage had passed, and he appeared entirely calm.

"My associates may do as they please," he replied with dignity, "but
it shall never be said that Elijah Dwight surrendered to a mob the
commission which he received from his excellency, the governor, and
their honors, the councillors of the Commonwealth."

"I admire your courage, sir, but I cannot answer for the consequences
of your refusal," said Perez.

"For my sake sign, sir," urged Madam Dwight.

"Oh, sign, papa. They will kill you," cried Eliza.

"Methinks, it is but proper prudence, to seem to yield for the time
being," said Goodrich.