Well, well, I am very glad you have no such scoundrels here.
I won't say a single word against your people, who are as fine a lot as any in the south of England, and as obstinate as any I could wish to see.

Of an obstinate man I can always make good; with a limp one I can do nothing.

But bear in mind every word you have heard me say, because I came down on purpose about it; and I generally penetrate the devices of the enemy, though they lead me on a wild-goose-chase sometimes, but only when our own folk back them up, either by lies or stupidity.

Now look once more, for you are slower as well as a great deal wiser than I am.
You see how this land-locked bight of Springhaven seems made by the Almighty for flat-bottomed craft, if once they can find their way into it; while the trend of the coast towards Pebbleridge is equally suited for the covering fleet, unless a gale from southwest comes on, in which case they must run for it.

And you see that the landed force, by crowning the hill above your house and across the valley, might defy our noble Volunteers, and all that could be brought against them, till a hundred thousand cutthroats were established here.