With inward but audible murmurs at this unholy connection, for Morgan
valued not their prayers a rush, Gideon strode forth, his eyes twinkling
grievously as the drizzling rime came on his face. His long ungainly
figure, surmounted by a high-peaked hat, was seen cautiously stealing
through the trenches. Near to the embrasure by Morgan's mortar-piece he
made a sudden halt. After preparing his drum, he first beat the roll to
crave attention. He then stepped upon the redoubt, drumming the usual
signal for a parley. It was soon answered from the walls, and Gideon,
with much ceremony and importance, arrived with his musical appendage
before the gate. The requisite formalities being gone through, the
drawbridge was lowered, and this parliamentary representative was
speedily admitted through a little wicket into the Babylon which he
abhorred. His very feet seemed in danger of defilement. He looked as if
breathing the very atmosphere of pollution; but when ordered to kneel
down that he might be blindfolded, his spirit rose indignantly at the
command.
"Ye be contemners and despisers of our holy heritage. I have not bowed
the knee to Baal, nor will I worship the beast or they that have his
name on their foreheads.
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