I shall be associated with the Chevalier, and
I desired to know the root of his troubles in order to help him. But
for these robes, Monsieur, you would not use the tone you do."
"La, la! Take them off if they hamper you. But I like not curious
people, I am not a gossip. The Chevalier has reasons in plenty. Ask
him why he going to Quebec;" and the vicomte whirled on his heels,
leaving the Jesuit the desire to cast aside his robes and smite the
vicomte on the mouth.
"Swashbuckler!" he murmured. "How many times have you filched the
Chevalier of his crowns by the use of clogged dice? . . . God pardon
me, but I am lusting for that man's life!" His hand clutched his
rosary and his lips moved in prayer, though the anger did not
immediately die out of his eyes. He wandered among the crowds. Words
and vague sentences filtered through the noise. Two gentlemen were
conversing lowly. Brother Jacques neared them unconsciously, still at
his beads.
"On my honor, it is as I tell you. The Chevalier . . ."
Brother Jacques raised his eyes,
"What! forfeited his rights in a moment of madness? Proclaimed himself
to be .
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