ALL other business in the hall was suspended. Perhaps the fire and success of Dollard’s courtship kindled envy in ruder breasts; but in Mother Mary’s it kindled that beacon which a vestal keeps ready against the inroads of the cloister’s despoilers.
Pallid and stately she placed herself before the pair. And during this conference she made dabs forward with her head, as a poor hen may be seen to do when the hawk has stolen her chicken.
“We did not understand, monsieur, that the commandant of Montreal sought a wife.”
“Reverend mother,” said Dollard, shielding the side of Claire’s face with his hand as he held her head against him, “I never dared seek such a blessing as this. The saints have given it to me.”
“But mademoiselle is not here to be married, monsieur.”
“I understand that, reverend mother.”
“And do you understand that she is the cousin of the Bishop of New France?”
“All Mademoiselle Laval’s history is known to me. I have adored her a lifetime.”