“He wandered away in a drunken fit.”
“And you have not heard from him since?”
“No, M’sieu. He was Teganouan, an Onondaga.”
“You would do well, Father, if I may suggest, to take what news you may have to the Commandant. You and I know the importance of trifles at such a time as this. How long do you remain in Quebec?”
“A few days only, unless there should be work for me here.”
“Do you return then to Montreal?”
“I cannot say until I have made my report and delivered the relations. Brother de Lamberville thinks it important that word should go to all those who are now labouring in the Iroquois villages. If they remain after the campaign 13 is fairly started, their lives may be in danger.”
“You think it necessary to go yourself?”
“What else, M’sieu? This is not the time to trust too freely an Indian runner. And a layman might never get through alive. My habit would be the best safeguard.”
“I suppose you are right. If I should not see you again, I must ask you to convey my respect to your colleagues at the Mission. I shall probably be here until the campaign is fairly started; perhaps longer. Already I am tasting the luxury of idleness.”