During our conversation, those who had been summoned to this mysterious
meeting were pouring in fast; and as each person approached the altar,
he received from one to two or three glasses of whiskey, according as he
chose to limit himself; but, to do them justice, there were not a few
of those present, who, in despite of their own desire, and the Captain's
express invitation, refused to taste it in the house of God's worship.
Such, however, as were scrupulous he afterwards recommended to take it
on the outside of the chapel door, which they did, as, by that means,
the sacrilege of the act was supposed to be evaded.
About one o'clock they were all assembled except six: at least so the
Captain asserted, on looking at a written paper.
"Now, boys," said he in the same low voice, "we are all present except
the thraitors, whose names I am goin' to read to you; not that we are to
count thim thraitors, till we know whether or not it was in their power
to come. Any how, the night's terrible--but, boys, you're to know, that
neither fire nor wather is to prevint you, when duly summoned to attind
a meeting--particularly whin the summons is widout a name, as you have
been told that there is always something of consequence to be done
thin."
He then read out the names of those who were absent, in order that the
real cause of their absence might be ascertained, declaring that they
would be dealt with accordingly.
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