man. No; and here I disturb myself about my own
reputation, while two lives are in jeopardy. I must think, I must
act--but how?"

And she broke down to weep again, showing the woman in her that was
behind so brave a front. Her tears were not for long. Jacques felt it
was his turn now to say something, so he blundered out, "See the
Governor;" then one whit better he went, "_I_ will see the Governor for
you."

The good fellow had in that moment for the first time realized that he
could stop the affair, and do it he would if he had to quit the colony.
And she such a lovely lady, so gentle with the poor.

"Do you not fear to speak with him of such as this?"

"No, Madame, Bienville's soldiers do not fear him; they leave that for
his enemies."

And so it fell out that Jacques told the Governor. And he told him all.

It was ever Bienville's wont to act with quick decision.

"Order Major Boisbriant to report to me at once." And off posted
Jacques upon his errand.

That officer attended with military promptitude.

"Major Boisbriant, do you seek on the instant the Chevalier de la Mora,
and bear him company wherever he may go until you are relieved. Put
upon him no restraint, and say nothing of your having such orders from
me if you can avoid it. There is trouble brewing here, which I want to
prevent; an affair of honor, you understand. He has gone toward the
landing on the Bay. Be discreet and delicate."

Boisbriant nodded his comprehension, saluted, and was gone. Bienville
turned to Jacques.

"Saddle my horse at once and bring him here."

It was much later than I had hoped before I could with decency return
to Biloxi. Impatient, childish and excited I recrossed the bay,
leaving a little detail of soldiers to watch beside the body of my
friend. As soon as I saw Jacques on the other shore I knew something
had gone wrong. That senseless knave was pacing uncertainly about the
beach, stopping here and there to dig great holes in the sand with his
toe, and carefully filling them up again. The fellow, ever on the
watch for me, was at the same time watching the path from Biloxi, and
seemed to dread my coming. Instead of meeting me at the water, he
waited for me to approach him, thus leaving the two boatmen out of
hearing.

"Well, give me the note; why stand there like a driveling fool," for
the fellow's hesitant manner angered and frightened me.

"There is no note, sir."

"No reply?"

"The lady se