`` It is thine hour . '' In the evening Lieutenant-governor Hutchinson sat in the same chamber where the foregoing scene had occurred , surrounded by several persons whose various interests had summoned them together . There were the selectmen of Boston -- plain patriarchal fathers of the people , excellent representatives of the old puritanical founders whose sombre strength had stamped so deep an impress upon the New England character . Contrasting with these were one or two members of council , richly dressed in the white wigs , the embroidered waistcoats and other magnificence of the time , and making a somewhat ostentatious display of courtier-like ceremonial . In attendance , likewise , was a major of the British army , awaiting the lieutenant-governor 's orders for the landing of the troops , which still remained on board the transports . The captain of Castle William stood beside Hutchinson 's chair , with folded arms , glancing rather haughtily at the British officer by whom he was soon to be superseded in his command . On a table in the centre of the chamber stood a branched silver candlestick , throwing down the glow of half a dozen waxlights upon a paper apparently ready for the lieutenant-governor 's signature . Partly shrouded in the voluminous folds of one of the window-curtains , which fell from the ceiling to the floor , was seen the white drapery of a lady 's robe . It may appear strange that Alice Vane should have been there at such a time , but there was something so childlike , so wayward , in her singular character , so apart from ordinary rules , that her presence did not surprise the few who noticed it . Meantime , the chairman of the selectmen was addressing to the lieutenant-governor a long and solemn protest against the reception of the British troops into the town . `` And if Your Honor , '' concluded this excellent but somewhat prosy old gentleman , `` shall see fit to persist in bringing these mercenary sworders and musketeers into our quiet streets , not on our heads be the responsibility . Think , sir , while there is yet time , that if one drop of blood be shed , that blood shall be an eternal stain upon Your Honor 's memory . You , sir , have written with an able pen the deeds of our forefathers ; the more to be desired is it , therefore , that yourself should deserve honorable mention as a true patriot and upright ruler when your own doings shall be written down in history . '' `` I am not insensible , my good sir , to the natural desire to stand well in the annals of my country , '' replied Hutchinson , controlling his impatience into courtesy , `` nor know I any better method of attaining that end than by withstanding the merely temporary spirit of mischief which , with your pardon , seems to have infected older men than myself . Would you have me wait till the mob shall sack the province-house as they did my private mansion ? Trust me , sir , the time may come when you will be glad to flee for protection to the king 's banner , the raising of which is now so distasteful to you . '' `` Yes , '' said the British major , who was impatiently expecting the lieutenant-governor 's orders . `` The demagogues of this province have raised the devil , and can not lay him again . We will exorcise him in God 's name and the king 's . '' `` If you meddle with the devil , take care of his claws , '' answered the captain of Castle William , stirred by the taunt against his countrymen .
`` Craving your pardon , young sir , '' said the venerable selectman , `` let not an evil spirit enter XXXXX your words .
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