CHAPTER XXV
HOMEWARD
To my surprise, Black Robe expressed a desire to accompany us on our continued journey East.
"I have said all that I have to say concerning what you have told these people about me," he said simply. "But I am sure I should lose favor in God's sight were I to continue my mission on the strength of the heathen superstitions you have aroused."
I pointed out to him that he would probably be exposed to additional dangers in our company after we had crossed the Mississippi.
"Say, instead, that you will not be exposed to so many dangers if I am with you, Monsieur Ormerod," he answered. "'Tis necessary for my soul's good, as I now realize, that I should return and seek the discipline of my superiors. I have wandered too long alone. My pride hath been unduly stirred. In my heart I have flouted the rules of my order. It is best that I should go to Quebec, and submit to the punishment my sins require."
"Sins? What sins?" I exclaimed.
"There are sins of the spirit as wicked as sins of the flesh," he returned enigmatically. "Whoso thinks himself worthy of martyrdom therein nourishes his own pride. But enough hath been said on this score. I will go with you."
"Why?" I asked. "'Tis not your wont to profess friendship for my people, Père Hyacinthe?"
His grim face creased in the rare smile that told of some hidden spring of kindliness, forgotten these many years.