"How did you know that we were here ?" asked the vicomte.
"Pauquet, in his wanderings, finally arrived at Onondaga two weeks ago. Upon hearing his story I at once began a search. We are virtually at peace with the Senecas and the Oneidas."
"And … the women?" inquired Victor, his heart's blood gushing to his throat.
The two Jesuits solemnly shook their heads.
Victor laid his head against the Chevalier's arm to hide the bitter tears.
"No sign?" asked the Chevalier calmly. All the joy of the rescue was gone.
"None. They were taken by a roving band of Senecas, of whom nothing has been heard. They are not at the Senecas' chief village."
However great the vicomte's disappointment may have been, his face remained without any discernible emotion. But he turned to D'Hérouville, his tone free from banter and his dark eyes full of menace:
"Monsieur le Comte, you and I shall soon straighten out our accounts."
"For my part, I would it were to-morrow. Our swords will be given back to us. Take heed, Vicomte," holding out a splendid arm, as if calling the vicomte's attention to it.