“Major of Infantry, Commissaire of the Governor La Barre.”
“So the titles read in this document. I arrest you by King’s order for treason to France, and mutilation of official records. Here is the warrant, M. de Baugis, and your orders to convey the prisoner to Quebec for trial.”
Cassion’s face went white, and he struggled madly for breath. De Baugis grasped the paper, so startled at this new development as to be incapable of comprehension.
“Under arrest? for what, Monsieur? Treason, and mutilation of official records? What does it mean?”
“This––the man knows, and will not deny the charge. False testimony sworn to, and signed by this Francois Cassion, charged Captain la Chesnayne with cowardice and treason. In consequence the latter was broken of his command, and his estates forfeited to the Crown. Later, through the efforts of Frontenac, the King was convinced of injustice, and the estates were restored by royal order. This order reached 402 Quebec, but was never recorded. This Cassion was then private secretary to the governor, and the paper came into his hands. Later, to hush up the scandal, he married Captain la Chesnayne’s daughter against her will. The day this was accomplished the lost order was placed on file.”
“You saw it?”
“Yes, I had the files searched secretly. The order was dispatched from France five years ago, but was stamped as received the day Cassion departed from Quebec.”
My eyes were upon the speaker and I failed to note how the accused man met this damning charge. It was his voice which drew my attention––high pitched, harsh, unnatural.
“Mon Dieu! ’twas not I––’twas La Barre!”
“Tell that in Quebec; though little good ’twill do you. M. de Baugis, in the King’s name I order this man’s arrest.”