"Messieurs," began the major, "there must he no private quarrels here.
Men found with drawn swords shall be shot the following morning without
the benefit of court-martial."
"Monsieur!" exclaimed D'Herouville.
The Chevalier stamped restlessly, and the vicomte frowned.
"Have the patience to hear me through. There is ill-blood between you
three. The cause does not interest me, but here my word is law. The
safety of the mission depends wholly upon our order and harmony. The
savage is always quarreling, and he looks with awe upon the
tranquillity with which we go about our daily affairs. To maintain
this awe there must be no private quarrels. Digest this carefully.
Draw your weapons in a duel, just or unjust, and I promise to have you
shot."
"That appears to be final," remarked the vicomte. He was chagrined,
but it was not noticeable in his tones. "What industrious friend has
acquainted you with the state of affairs?"
"I was watching your actions last night," replied the major.
"And you saw the blow Monsieur du Cevennes struck me?" snarled
D'Herouville.
"When you arrive again in Quebec, Messieurs, you may fight as
frequently as you please; but here I am master.
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