It was a question difficult to answer.
"Give me your word as a British officer that you will never again try to harm any person, not an open, armed enemy, in this town." Hamilton's gorge rose perversely.

He erected himself with lofty reserve and folded his arms.

The dignity of a Lieutenant Governor leaped into him and took control.

Father Beret correctly interpreted what he saw.
"My people have borne much," he said, "and the killing of that poor child there will be awfully avenged if I but say the word.

Besides, I can turn every Indian in this wilderness against you in a single day.
You are indeed at my mercy, and I will be merciful if you will satisfy my demand." He was trembling with emotion while he spoke and the desire to kill the man before him was making a frightful struggle with his priestly conscience; but conscience had the upper hand.