"But I would have shot myself the moment after," I said.
He had regained his level. "Then you would have been a double coward.
I shall do better."
"You think to reinstate yourself?"
"I know that I shall reinstate myself. Monsieur, I throw myself upon your courtesy. I ask to be taken to my cousin."
"No, monsieur. I follow my wife's wishes."
"I loved her, monsieur."
My pity of the moment before was gone like vapor. I looked up from my canoe, and took the man's measure. "I think not. You loved something, I grant. Her wit, perhaps, her money, the pleasure she gave your epicure's taste. But you did not love her, the woman. My God, if you loved her how could you endure to scatter her likeness broadcast among the savages as you did? To make that profile, that mouth, that chin, the jest and property of a greasy Indian! No, you shall not see my wife, monsieur."
He changed no line at my outburst. "Then I shall follow by force. I shall sit here till you move, monsieur."
I shrugged. "A rash promise. Are your provisions close at hand?"
He looked at me steadfastly. "Then you absolutely refuse to take me to her?"