proved the
unhappiness of his mind.

"So you sent for me--why? What has happened between you and Cassion?"

"No more than occurred between us yonder in Quebec, when I informed
him that I was his wife in name only," I answered quietly. "Do you
blame me now that you understand his purpose in this marriage?"

"But I don't understand. You have but aroused my suspicion. Tell me
all, and if the man is a villain he shall make answer to me."

"Ay, if you imagine you have been outplayed in the game, although
it is little enough you would care otherwise. Let there be no
misunderstanding between us, Monsieur. You sold me to Francois
Cassion because you expected to profit through his influence with La
Barre. Now you learn otherwise, and the discovery has angered you.
For the time being you are on my side--but for how long?"

He stared at me, his slow wits scarcely translating my words.
Seemingly the man had but one idea in his thick head.

"How know you the truth of all you have said?" he asked. "Where
learned you of this wealth?"

"By overhearing conversation while hidden behind the curtain in La
Barre's office. He spoke freely with his aide, and later with Cassion.
It was my discovery there which led to the forced marriage, and our
being sent with this expedition."

"You heard alone?"

"So they thought, and naturally believed marriage would prevent my
ever bearing witness against them. But I was not alone."

"_Mon Dieu!_ Another heard?"

"Yes, the Sieur de Artigny."

Chevet grasped my arm, and in the glare of the fire I could see his
excitement pictured in his face.

"Who? That lad? You were in hiding there together? And did he realize
what was said?"

"That I do not know," I answered, "for we have exchanged no word
since. When my presence was discovered, De Artigny escaped unseen
through the open window. I need to meet him again that these matters
may be explained, and that I may learn just what he overheard. It was
to enlist your aid that I sent for you."

"To bring the lad here?"

"No; that could not be done without arousing the suspicion of Cassion.
The two are already on the verge of quarrel. You must find some way of
drawing the Commissaire aside--not tonight, for there is plenty of
time before us, and I am sure we are being watched now--and that will
afford me opportunity."

"But why may I not speak him?"

"You!" I laughed. "He would be likely to talk with you. A sweet
message you sent him in Quebe