“Of course not; but, I say, Dr Martin, I don’t think I understand it a bit. Why are the French and English going to fight?”
“I’m afraid it is because they consider themselves natural enemies, my boy. Your people have a great part of North America and my people have Canada. War has been declared, and King George’s soldiers have come to take Canada from the French King.”
“And that means fighting, of course,” said Phil. “My father has come with his men to fight against the Marquis—Marquis— What did you say his name is?”
“Montcalm. The Marquis de Montcalm,” replied the Doctor, “who is at Quebec.”
“And my father’s men are going to take Quebec away from him for the King of England.”
“Your father’s leader is General Wolfe,” said the Doctor, smiling.
“Oh, yes, I know—General Wolfe,” said Phil, eagerly. “But, I say, Dr Martin, shan’t we be able to go back to the house—I’m getting so hungry?”
“No; I’m afraid we must not go back to the house again.”
“But all our things are there.”
“Yes, all our clothes, and my books.”