The _Frontenac_ offered them a better passage than any boat they could buy and have to row perhaps with their own strength.

Moreover, they were already on excellent terms with de Galisonniere, and it would be a good thing for them to arrive at Quebec in his company.
A strong wind was blowing, and the _Frontenac_ moved swiftly over the surface of the great stream which was like liquid green glass that morning.

The three had put their weapons, including Tayoga's bow and arrows, in the cabin, and they sat on deck with de Galisonniere, who looked with pride at the magnificent river which was the very artery of life in the New France of the chevaliers.

Robert's own heart throbbed as he knew that this last stage of their journey would take them to famous Quebec.
"If the St.Lawrence didn't freeze over for such a long period," said de Galisonniere, "this region would become in time the greatest empire in the world." "But isn't that a huge 'if' ?" asked Robert, laughing.
De Galisonniere smiled.
"It is," he said, "but New France is the chief jewel in the French crown, nevertheless.

In time the vice-regal court at Quebec will rule an empire greater than that of France itself.