During this time period there was great mistrust even among neighbors; people weren't really sure which side their friends and neighbors were on.  Such was the case with Mr. Heron.  Rumors that he was playing both sides were circulating. 

 In addition to this, Mr.Meeker, who was opposed to the war, simply did not want Tim to get involved.  He was devastated that his oldest son, Sam, had joined and feared for his life.  He did not want to take the chance that Tim might also get killed in the war.  Mr. Meeker's first concern was the safety of Tim and that's the main reason why he didn't want him to get involved in any manner.