Oh, fierce, fierce as the governor when he catches a French spy!" He turned to her and, with a touch of irony, "Pardon!" he retorted.

"Now I shall look as blithe as the governor when a traitor deserts to him." Of purpose he spoke loud enough to be heard by the governor and his friend.

The governor turned sharply on him.

He had caught the ring in the voice, that rash enthusiasm of eager youth, and, taking a step towards Iberville, Count Frontenac's letter still poised in his hand: "Were your words meant for my hearing, monsieur ?" he said.

"Were you speaking of me or of your governor ?" "I was thinking of one Radisson a traitor, and I was speaking of yourself, your excellency." The governor had asked his question in French, in French the reply was given.