That was true enough. He pitied her profoundly.
"Is it true our Governor is bringing his new wife to Quebec?" she asked presently.
"So the trading vessels have said. They are already loading up with furs, and trade seems brisk. Of course it brings great confusion. I have taken charge of M. Giffard's bales that came in last week. They had better be sent as usual. The Paris firm is eager for them. They are a fine lot. What is your pleasure?"
"Oh, relieve me of all care that you can. I am so helpless. Laurent did everything. Women were never meant for business, he thought. I am no wiser than a child."
She looked so helpless, so sweet, so dependent.
"I shall be glad to do what I can. Yes, it would be no place for a woman. She could not manage matters. And if you like to trust me——"
"I would trust you in all things. Laurent thought your judgment excellent. He cared so much for you. Oh, if you will take charge——"
She looked up with sweet, appealing eyes. Did he not owe her some protection and care? He was pondering silently.
"You have relieved me of such a burthen. I think I shall get well now. I hardly knew whether I wanted most to live or die."
"Life is best, sweetest." It would be for her. He uttered the sentence involuntarily.