he king of France had established the Company of the
Hundred Associates at the same time, and they were thus constituted
masters of commerce in Canada and Acadia.

Sir William Alexander had equipped three vessels, to which he had
appointed David Kirke and his two brothers as captains. They stopped for
a time at Newfoundland, and then taking the gulf and river St. Lawrence,
they anchored at Tadousac, as we have already seen, during the first
days of July, 1628. The news of Kirke's arrival soon reached Champlain,
through an Indian named Napagabiscou, or Tregatin, who came in haste to
Cape Tourmente. Foucher, the chief of the farmers, proceeded at once to
Quebec to confirm the news, and also to inform Champlain that the
establishment had been burnt, his cattle destroyed, and all the
inhabitants taken prisoners. The prisoners were brought back to Quebec
some days after in the custody of six Basques, who delivered to
Champlain the following letter:

"Messieurs:--I give you notice that I have received a
commission from the king of Great Britain, my honoured lord and
master, to take possession of the countries of Canada and Acadia,
and for that purpose eighteen ships have been despatched, each
taking the route ordered by His Majesty. I have already seized the
habitation of Miscou, and all boats and pinnaces on that coast, as
well as those of Tadousac, where I am presently at anchor. You are
also informed that among the vessels that I have seized, there is
one belonging to the new company, commanded by a certain Noyrot,
which was coming to you with provisions and goods for the trade.
The Sieur de la Tour was also on board, whom I have taken into my
ship. I was preparing to seek you, but thought it better to send
boats to destroy and seize your cattle at Cape Tourmente; for I
know that, when you are straightened for supplies, I shall the more
easily obtain my desire, which is, to have your settlement; and in
order that no vessels shall reach you, I have resolved to remain
here till the end of the season, in order that you may not be
re-victualled. Therefore see what you wish to do, if you intend to
deliver up the settlement or not, for, God aiding, sooner or later
I must have it. I would desire, for your sake, that it should be by
courtesy rather than by force, to avoid the blood which might be
spilt on both sides. By s