h the authority of the
Governor?"

"Pah! that is not the issue. Tis merely a question of justice to this
lad here. I stand for fair trial with Henri de Tonty, and will back my
judgment with my sword."

They stood eye to eye, the four of them, and the group of soldiers
seemed to divide, each company drawing together. Cassion growled some
vague threat, but De Baugis took another course, gripping his
companion by the arm.

"No, Francois, 'tis not worth the danger," he expostulated. "There
will be no crossing of steel. Monsieur Cassion, no doubt, hath reason
to be angered--but not I. The man shall have his trial, and we will
learn the right and wrong of all this presently. Monsieur Tonty, the
prisoner is left in your charge. Fall back men--to your barracks.
Madame, permit me to offer you my escort."

"To where, Monsieur?"

"To the only quarters fitted for your reception," he said gallantly,
"those I have occupied since arrival here."

"You vacate them for me?"

"With the utmost pleasure," bowing gallantly. "I beg of you their
acceptance; your husband has been my guest, and will join with me in
exile."

I glanced at De Tonty, who yet stood with hand on De Artigny's
shoulder, a little cordon of his own men gathered closely about them.
My eyes encountered those of the younger officer. As I turned away I
found myself confronted by Cassion. The very sight of his face brought
me instant decision, and I spoke my acceptance before he could utter
the words trembling on his lips.

"I will use your quarters gladly, Captain de Baugis," I said quietly,
"but will ask to be left there undisturbed."

"Most assuredly, Madame--my servant will accompany you."

"Then good-night, Messieurs," I faced Cassion, meeting his eyes
frankly. "I am greatly wearied, and would rest; tomorrow I will speak
with you, Monsieur. Permit me to pass."

He stood aside, unable to affront me, although the anger in his face,
was evidence enough of brewing trouble. No doubt he had boasted of me
to De Baugis, and felt no desire now to have our true relations
exposed thus publicly. I passed him, glancing at none of the others,
and followed the soldier across the beaten parade. A moment later I
was safely hidden within a two-roomed cabin.

Everything within had an appearance of neatness, almost as if a woman
had arranged its furnishings. I glanced about in pleased surprise, as
the soldier placed fresh fuel on the cheerful fire blazing in the
fireplace,