“He gave me an outline of it last night,” said I. “It was a most thrilling narrative.”
“Yes, and one that I was heartily glad to hear,” replied Macdonald. “Even if Cuthbert Mackenzie had been killed otherwise than in a struggle his death would have been a simple act of justice; for it seems that he admitted and boasted of his part in the capture of Fort Royal. As for the charge of murder, it is ridiculous!”
“Then you think the affair will blow over?” I cried.
“I am sure of it, under the circumstances,” declared the factor. “I understand that Lieutenant Boyd spoke plainly last night, intimating that our people suspected the Northwest Company of complicity in the attack on Fort Royal, and that they would hear from us shortly. So it is unlikely that Ruthven or his superiors will take any steps to apprehend Captain Rudstone. Indeed, since they can’t tell what evidence we have—or have not—they may be frightened into adopting a more peaceable policy than heretofore.”
“I hope so, with all my heart,” said I.
“Time will tell,” replied Macdonald. “We shall continue to prepare for the worst at all events. It is possible that the rescue at Lagarde’s store may drive the half-breeds, or the more hot-headed of the Northwest Company men to some desperate act.”
With that the factor turned to Christopher Burley, who had been waiting with visible signs of impatience for our conversation to terminate.
“Now, sir, I am ready to attend to your business,” he said. “I can’t spare much time, for I have promised an interview to Captain Rudstone this afternoon. I believed some personal matter—I have not the least idea what—is connected with his visit to the fort.”
“I trust I shall not detain you long,” replied the law clerk. “I sincerely regret that—”
“Oh, it’s all right,” interrupted Macdonald. “I am glad to be of service to you. A few minutes will settle the question in one way or another.”