It was now that madame saw four familiar faces beyond the fire. These
men, these men; even here, in the heart of the wilderness! With an odd
little smile she extended her hands, swayed, and became limp upon
Brother Jacques's arm.
CHAPTER XXVIII
THE FLASH FROM THE SPURT OF FLAME
The presence of the women in the settlement brought about a magic
change. Beards were clipped, locks were trimmed, clothes overhauled,
and the needle and thread performed an almost forgotten office; the
jest was modified, and the meal hours were quiet and decorous. The
women were given a separate cabin in which they were to sleep, and
every one contributed something toward their comfort. Father Le
Mercier even went so far as to delay mass the first morning in order
that the women might be thoroughly rested. Thus, a grain of humor
entered into the lives of these grim men.
"Madame," said the Chevalier, "permit me to felicitate you upon your
extraordinary escape." This was said during the first morning.
Madame courtesied. Her innate mockery was always near the surface.
"Will you grant me the pleasure of showing you the mission?"
"No, Monsieur le Chevalier; Monsieur de Saumaise and Brother Jacques
have already offered to do that service.
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