old Bourgeois, his father, who placed that tablet of the golden dog upon
the front of his house to spite the Cardinal, they say,--the act of a
bold man, let what will be the true interpretation of it."

"I hear every one speak well of the Bourgeois Philibert," remarked
Amelie. "Aunt de Tilly is ever enthusiastic in his commendation. She
says he is a true gentleman, although a trader."

"Why, he is noble by birth, if that be needed, and has got the King's
license to trade in the Colony like some other gentlemen I wot of.
He was Count Philibert in Normandy, although he is plain Bourgeois
Philibert in Quebec; and a wise man he is too, for with his ships and
his comptoirs and his ledgers he has traded himself into being the
richest man in New France, while we, with our nobility and our swords,
have fought ourselves poor, and receive nothing but contempt from the
ungrateful courtiers of Versailles."

Their conversation was interrupted by a sudden rush of people, making
room for the passage of the Regiment of Bearn, which composed part
of the garrison of Quebec, on their march to their morning drill and
guard-mounting,--bold, dashing Gascons in blue and white uniforms, tall
caps, and long queues rollicking down their supple backs, seldom seen by
an enemy.

Mounted officers, laced and ruffled, gaily rode in front. Subalterns
with spontoons and sergeants with halberds dressed the long line of
glistening bayonets. The drums and fifes made the streets ring again,
while the men in full chorus, a gorge deployee, chanted the gay refrain
of La Belle Canadienne in honor of the lasses of Quebec.

The Governor and his suite had already mounted their horses, and
cantered off to the Esplanade to witness the review.

"Come and dine with us today," said the Lady de Tilly to La Corne St.
Luc, as he too bade the ladies a courteous adieu, and got on horseback
to ride after the Governor.

"Many thanks! but I fear it will be impossible, my Lady: the council
of war meets at the Castle this afternoon. The hour may be deferred,
however, should Colonel Philibert not chance to find the Intendant at
Beaumanoir, and then I might come; but best not expect me."

A slight, conscious flush just touched the cheek of Amelie at the
mention of Colonel Philibert.

"But come if possible, godfather," added she; "we hope to have Le
Gardeur home this afternoon. He loves you so much, and I know you have
countless things to say to him."

Amelie's trembli