Some of the men cursed, others laughed. They liked Frontin for his cool cruelty and his high intelligence.
“If you say so, then it will come to pass,” said Bose, growling some blasphemy in his beard. “What about the gold?”
“Unfortunately, I cannot be in two places at once,” said Frontin. “I propose that we divide into two parties. I shall remain here with the cap’n and four men, to search out the gold and, if possible, secure it. Seven men and Bose, with Crawford in command, will go into the white desert and bring us men, provisions, munitions, and a ship. Eh?”
There was a roar of laughter at this proposal, which was at once put to the vote and passed, amid a flood of oaths and obscenities. Then Crawford spoke up for the first time.
“The snow is deep. You will provide wings for us to cross?”
Frontin grinned. “I brought Saint-Castin’s snowshoes for the purpose. You can use them; the others can learn.”
“I can use them,” spoke up Bose heavily. “I spent a Winter in Hudson’s Bay, with the English company.”
“Excellent!” proclaimed Frontin. “Now, Crawford, pay attention and you shall learn how this white desert can be made to furnish all we lack. That is to say, provided your scruples against seizing English goods can be overcome.”
Crawford shrugged and tamped down his pipe.
“Self-preservation is the answer, my dear Frontin. I am at your service to command.”