He walked across the room, once, twice, his head bent in thought, and I watched him, half frightened lest I had angered him.
“Have I done very wrong, Monsieur?”
He stopped, his eyes on my face. He must have perceived my perplexity, for he smiled again, and pressed my hand gently.
“If so, the angels must judge,” he answered stoutly. “As for me, I am very glad you do me this honor. I but seek the best plan of service, Mademoiselle, for I 42 stand between you and this sacrifice with much pleasure. You shall not marry Cassion while I wear a sword; yet, faith! I am so much a man of action that I see no way out but by the strong arm. Is appeal to the Governor, to the judges impossible?”
“He possesses influence now.”
“True enough; he is the kind La Barre finds useful, while I can scarce keep my head upon my shoulders here in New France. To be follower of La Salle is to be called traitor. It required the aid of every friend I had in Quebec to secure me card of admission to the ball tonight.”
“You attend, Monsieur?”
“Unless they bar me at the sword point. Know you why I made the effort?”
“No, Monsieur.”
“Your promise to be present. I had no wish otherwise.”