“So I have heard––a stronger man than De Baugis?”
“A more resolute; all depends on what orders La Salle left, and the number of men the two command.”
“In that respect the difference is not great. De Baugis had but a handful of soldiers to take from Mackinac, although his voyageurs may be depended upon to obey his will. His instructions were not to employ force.”
“And the garrison of St. Louis?”
“’Tis hard to tell, as there are fur hunters there of whom we have no record. La Salle’s report would make his own command eighteen, but they are well chosen, and he hath lieutenants not so far away as to be forgotten. La Forest would strike at a word, and De la Durantaye is at the Chicago portage, and no friend of mine. ’Tis of importance, therefore, that your voyage be swiftly completed, and my orders placed in De Baugis’ hands. Are all things ready for departure?”
“Ay, the boats only await my coming.”
The Governor leaned his head on his hand, crumbling the paper between his fingers.
“This young fellow––De Artigny,” he said thoughtfully, “you have some special reason for keeping him in your company?”
Cassion crossed the room, his face suddenly darkening.