s."

The Colonel stood erect, and advanced a step, his expression one of
sudden curiosity.

"In faith, Governor," he said swiftly, "but your statement awakens
wonder. If this be so why does Francois Cassion seek the maid so
ardently? Never did I deem that cavalier one to throw himself away
without due reward."

La Barre laughed.

"Perchance you do Francois ill judgment, Monsieur le Colonel," he
replied amused. "No doubt 'tis love, for, in truth, the witch would
send sluggish blood dancing with the glance of her eyes. Still," more
soberly, his eyes falling to the desk, "'tis, as you say, scarce in
accord with Cassion's nature to thus make sacrifice, and there have
been times when I suspected he did some secret purpose. I use the man,
yet never trust him."

"Nor I, since he played me foul trick at La Chine. Could he have found
the paper of restoration, and kept it concealed, until all was in his
hands?"

"I have thought of that, yet it doth not appear possible. Francois was
in ill grace with Frontenac, and could never have reached the
archives. If the paper came to his hands it was by accident, or
through some treachery. Well,'tis small use of our discussing the
matter. He hath won my pledge to Mademoiselle la Chesnayne's hand, for
I would have him friend, not enemy, just now. They marry on his
return."

"He is chosen then for the mission to Fort St. Louis?"

"Ay, there were reasons for his selection. The company departs at
dawn. Tell him, Monsieur, that I await him now for final interview."

I watched Delguard salute, and turn away to execute his order. La
Barre drew a paper from a drawer of the desk, and bent over it pen in
hand. My eyes lifted to the face of De Artigny, standing motionless
behind me in the deeper shadow.

"You overheard, Monsieur?" I whispered.

He leaned closer, his lips at my ear, his eyes dark with eagerness.

"Every word, Mademoiselle! Fear not, I shall yet learn the truth from
this Cassion. You suspected?"

I shook my head, uncertain.

"My father died in that faith, Monsieur, but Chevet called me a
beggar."

"Chevet! no doubt he knows all, and has a dirty hand in the mess. He
called you beggar, hey!--hush, the fellow comes."

He was a picture of insolent servility, as he stood there bowing, his
gay dress fluttering with ribbons, his face smiling, yet utterly
expressionless. La Barre lifted his eyes, and surveyed him coldly.

"You sent for me, sir?"

"Yes, although I scarc