The soldier touched his cap, and the officer trotted through the archway.
A moment later he dismounted at the portal of the Chateau, threw the bridle into the hands of a groom in waiting, and entered. The Lieutenant-Governor was in his office, and evidently expected him, for he immediately rose and congratulated him on his punctuality. He then proceeded to business without delay.
"You are well mounted?"
"I think I have the fleetest and best-winded horse in the army."
"You will need him. Three Rivers is eighty miles from Quebec."
"As the crow flies, Your Excellency. By the road it is something more."
"You must be there by ten o'clock to-night."
"I will be there."
"Here are despatches for the Commandant of Three Rivers."
And he handed the officer a sealed package which the latter at once secured in his waistcoat pocket.