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" Rip was equally at a loss to comprehend the question ; when a knowing , self-important old gentleman , in a sharp cocked hat , made his way through the crowd , putting them to the right and left with his elbows as he passed , and planting himself before Van Winkle , with one arm akimbo , the other resting on his cane , his keen eyes and sharp hat penetrating , as it were , into his very soul , demanded in an austere tone , " what brought him to the election with a gun on his shoulder , and a mob at his heels , and whether he meant to breed a riot in the village ? They did their duty like men of honour and faithful subjects , in exposing their lives to save that of this unfortunate monarch : such a sacrifice is due to the state and to sovereign majesty : furious from the derangement of his faculties , Charles was not guilty : he might recover his health , and again become a good king . They suggested that they should have a full-time counsellor at the school so that the children could talk about their problems , especially about the violence in their lives ( Halls Creek WA community meeting , 18 May 1999 ) . " And casting himself upon his sled , with the most reckless disregard for his ribs , off whizzed Tom after her , and came alongside just as she reined up " General Grant " on the broad path below . The appearance of Rip , with his long grizzled beard , his rusty fowling-piece , his uncouth dress , and an army of women and children at his heels , soon attracted the attention of the tavern politicians .