shment to assume? The power of
La Barre I knew, and his stern vindictiveness, and well I realized the
fear and hate which swept his mind, as he recalled the conversation I
had overheard. He must seal my lips to protect himself--but how? As
though in a daze I saw Cassion open the door, speak a sharp word to
one without, and return, followed by a young officer, who glanced
curiously aside at me, even as he saluted La Barre, and stood silently
awaiting his orders. The latter remained a moment motionless, his lips
firm set.

"Where is Father Le Guard?"

"In the Chapel, Monsieur; he passed me a moment ago."

"Good; inform the _pere_ that I desire his presence at once. Wait!
know you the fur trader, Hugo Chevet?"

"I have seen the man, Monsieur--a big fellow, with a shaggy head."

"Ay, as savage as the Indians he has lived among. He is to be found at
Eclair's wine shop in the Rue St. Louis. Have your sentries bring him
here to me. Attend to both these matters."

"Yes, Monsieur."

La Barre's eyes turned from the disappearing figure of the officer,
rested a moment on my face, and then smiled grimly as he fronted
Cassion. He seemed well pleased with himself, and to have recovered
his good humor.

"A delightful surprise for you, Monsieur Cassion," he said genially,
"and let us hope no less a pleasure for the fair lady. Be seated,
Mademoiselle; there may be a brief delay. You perceive my plan, no
doubt?"

Cassion did not answer, and the Governor looked at me.

"No, Monsieur."

"And yet so simple, so joyful a way out of this unfortunate
predicament. I am surprised. Cassion here might not appreciate how
nicely this method will answer to close your lips, but you,
remembering clearly the private conference between myself and Colonel
Delguard, should grasp my purpose at once. Your marriage is to take
place tonight, Mademoiselle."

"Tonight! my marriage! to whom?"

"Ah! is there then more than one prospective bridegroom? Monsieur
Cassion surely I am not in error that you informed me of your
engagement to Mademoiselle la Chesnayne?"

"She has been pledged me in marriage, Monsieur--the banns published."

I sat with bowed head, my cheeks flaming.

"'Tis then as I understood," La Barre went on, chuckling. "The lady is
over modest."

"I have made no pledge," I broke in desperately. "Monsieur spoke to my
Uncle Chevet, not I!"

"Yet you were told! You made no refusal?"

"Monsieur, I could not; they arranged it all, a