He now proceeded to the division, into small parties, of his whole force--placing them under guides rather than leaders, and reserving to himself the instruction and command of the whole.

There was still something to be done, and conceiving this to be a good opportunity for employing a test, already determined upon, he approached Ralph Colleton, who surveyed the whole affair with intense curiosity.
"And now, young 'squire, you see what we're driving at, and as our present business wo'nt permit of neutrality, let us hear on which side you stand.

Are you for us or against us ?" The question was one rather of command than solicitation, but the manner of the speaker was sufficiently deferential.
"I see not why you should ask the question, sir.

I have no concern in your controversy--I know not its merits, and propose simply to content myself with the position of a spectator.

I presume there is nothing offensive in such a station." "There may be, sir; and you know that when people's blood's up, they don't stand on trifles.