Remain here," thundered Dwight.
The girl paused, irresolute, pale and terrified.
"Go, Eliza," said her mother. "Disobey your father and save his life."
She went, and in a moment returned with the articles. Perez wrote two
lines, and read them.
"'We promise not to act under our commissions until the grievances of
which the people complain are redressed.' Now sign that, and quickly,
or it will be too late."
"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.
Pages:
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137