"In the crowd attending Murray I also heard talk of the Doom Trail," I continued.
Governor Burnet smiled grimly.
"That is the popular name for the route by which Murray smuggles his trade-goods to Canada."
"But why the name, your Excellency?"
"Because 'tis said to be the sealing of a man's doom if he seeks the trail or any information concerning it. Is not that the story, Colden?"
"'Tis a story which hath more than legend to substantiate it," agreed the surveyor-general.
"Has the traffic been suspended during Murray's absence?" I asked.
"No," replied the governor. "Bolling and Black Robe have kept it in motion."
"And who is Black Robe?"
The governor laughed outright.