He knew that the fleet from Louisbourg would be hanging about nearer the mouth of the great estuary, and to a traveller of his experience the journey either by land or water was a mere trifle.
Any day the sails of the English vessels might be expected to appear.

The seething excitement in the city, and the eager and laborious preparations upon land, showed how public feeling was being aroused.

It might not be well for Fritz to linger much longer.

If his real connection with the English were discovered, he might find himself in difficulties.
"I have arranged with a boatman to take you down the river tonight, Monsieur," said Madame Drucour to him; when he had expressed a determination to leave.

"He is scouting for information as to the English fleet, and we have heard that vessels have been seen in the region of the Isle-aux-Coudres.