CHAPTER X.THE DOOR THAT WOULD NOT OPEN.
The old Manor House of Pontiac was alive with light and merriment.

It was the early autumn; not cool enough for the doors and windows to be shut, but cool enough to make dancing a pleasure, and to give spirit to the gaiety that filled the old house.

The occasion was a notable one for Pontiac.

An address of congratulation and appreciation and a splendid gift of silver had been brought to the Manor from the capital by certain high officials of the Government and the Army, representing the people of the Province.

At first Madelinette had shrunk from the honour to be done her, and had so written to certain quarters whence the movement had proceeded; but a letter had come to her which had changed her mind.