He tugged at his sword, but the dragoon caught his arm.
“Nay, wait, Cassion. ’Twill be best to learn the 298 truth before resorting to blows. Perchance Monsieur Tonty can explain clearly what has happened.”
“It is explained already,” answered the Italian, and he took a step forward as though to protect us. “These two, with a soldier of M. de la Durantaye, endeavored to reach the fort, and were attacked by Iroquois. We dispatched men to their rescue, and have all now safe within the palisades. What more would you learn, Messieurs?”
Cassion pressed forward, and fronted him, angered beyond control.
“We know all that,” he roared savagely. “But I would learn why they hid themselves from me. Ay, Madame, but I will make you talk when once we are alone! But now I denounce this man as the murderer of Hugo Chevet, and order him under arrest. Here, lads, seize the fellow.”
CHAPTER XXVI
IN DE BAUGIS’ QUARTERS
De Tonty never gave way an inch, as a dozen soldiers advanced at Cassion’s order.