"But you heard the young cockerel! What he dared say to me?"
"True! what mean you? That he would resist my authority?"
"That he held commission from the King, while your only authority was by word of the Governor? Was it not by Royal Orders that La Salle was relieved of command?"
Cassion's face exhibited embarrassment, yet he managed to laugh.
"A mere boast the boy made, yet with a grain of truth to bolster it. La Barre acted with authority, but there has not been time for his report to be passed upon by Louis. No doubt 'tis now upon the sea."
"And now for this reason to lay his cause before the King, the Sieur de la Salle, sailed for France."
"Yes, but too late; already confirmation of La Barre's act is en route to New France. The crowing cockerel yonder will lose his spurs. But come, 'tis useless to stand here discussing this affair. Let me show you how well your comfort has been attended to."
I walked beside him among the trees, and across the patch of grass to where the tent stood against a background of rock. The Indians and soldiers in separate groups were busied about their fires, and I could distinguish the chief, with Chevet, still beside the canoes, engaged in making them secure for the night. The evening shadows were thickening about us, and the gloom of the woods extended already across the river to the opposite shore.
De Artigny had disappeared, although I glanced about in search for him, as Cassion drew aside the tent flap, and peered within. He appeared pleased at the way in which his orders had been executed.
"'Tis very neat, indeed, Monsieur," I said pleasantly, glancing inside. "I owe you my thanks."
"'Twas brought for my own use," he confessed, encouraged by my graciousness, "for as you know, I had no previous warning that you were to be of our party. Please step within."
I did so, yet turned instantly to prevent his following me. Already I had determined on my course of action, and now the time had come for me to speak him clearly; yet now that I had definite purpose in view it was no part of my game to anger the man.
"Monsieur," I said soberly. "I must beg your mercy. I am but a girl, and alone. It is true I am your wife by law, but the change has come so suddenly that I am yet dazed. Surely you cannot wish to take advantage, or make claim upon me, until I can bid you welcome. I appeal to you as a gentleman."