"What sort of demands?"

Alfred was the last to enter and took the chair between Matthew and Caroline. "We are to pay for the tea. Only then will the ships be pulled back."

"How much?"

"Far more than we can afford."

The silence hung heavy in the room for a time before Matthew asked Alfred, "Is this the King's only punishment?"

"He has appointed General Gage the new Governor and more regimentals are being landed."

Matthew sneered, "Do the regimentals now out number us?"

"I didn't stay to count them, and why is it you blame me for everything?"

"Two thousands," Caleb muttered.

Matthew looked stunned, "Two thousand more regimentals?"

"I overheard Samuel Adams say it."

"Ah yes, well if Samuel Adams said it, it must be so. Is that not right, Alfred?"

Alfred, narrowed his eyes, "He is a good man who wants what is best."

"Best for whom? Tell me, has he admitted burning the Gaspee yet? As I recall nearly a thousand people watched and none saw who set the blaze. Or was it you, Alfred?"

"Since when do you object to the burning of a revenue cutter?" Alfred shot back.

Caroline sighed, "Papa, please. We are frightened enough without your bickering. Go on, Caleb, what else did Mister Adams have to say?"