All strangers of consequence who visited the village gravitated to the Hawkins Mansion and became guests of the "Judge." Hawkins had learned to like the people of his section very much.

They were uncouth and not cultivated, and not particularly industrious; but they were honest and straightforward, and their virtuous ways commanded respect.

Their patriotism was strong, their pride in the flag was of the old fashioned pattern, their love of country amounted to idolatry.
Whoever dragged the national honor in the dirt won their deathless hatred.

They still cursed Benedict Arnold as if he were a personal friend who had broken faith--but a week gone by..