Part 5 (1/2)

Opposed? Carried!

BLIGH [_insistent knocking_]

Open, open, I say! Open in the name of the King.

TREAT [_over the noise_]

Captain Wadsworth, I deliver this charter into your hands for safe-keeping.

WADSWORTH

We shall keep it, sir. Never fear!

TREAT [_calling_]

Doorkeeper, open the door!

VOICE

Yes, sir!

BLIGH [_coming in_]

What is the meaning of this, sir? Why was I locked out?

TREAT

Your pardon, sir. But what authority have you, sir, to break into the a.s.sembly of the General Court of Connecticut?

BLIGH

I have come to take over the government of this colony under the authority of Governor Andros.

TREAT

Indeed, and who are you, if we may be permitted to know?

BLIGH

Ah, of course--I have the honor to be Samuel Bligh, Colonel in His Majesty's service. Are you Robert Treat?

TREAT

I am.

BLIGH

Here are your orders! [_rattle of paper_]

TREAT