He took a step further, and the rebuking hand was still uplifted.  The soldiers shrank back and more than one crossed himself.  Yet they were relieved, as Father Montigny had interfered with a task that they did not like.

“I have the utmost respect for Holy Church,” replied Alvarez, though it cost him an effort to utter the words, “but I am in command here and all military affairs fall under my jurisdiction.  This young man is a dangerous spy and plotter from Kaintock, one who has used force against us.  He and his comrades seized one of our boats and that was an act of war.”

“He is a good youth,” said Father Montigny.  “He and his comrades did me a great service.  I know that his motives are good, and I will not see him treated in such barbarous fashion.”

The face of Alvarez darkened.  This was more than he could stand.

“I am the judge in these matters,” he replied, “and I tell you, Father Montigny, that you must not interfere.  Your order, the Capuchins, are in power now at New Orleans, as I know, but the Jesuits may come back.  I should favor their returning.”

“It is not a question of Capuchin or Jesuit,” replied Father Montigny sternly, “and you, Francisco Alvarez, should know it.  It is a question of you and what you are doing here.  You need not make any threats against me.  I care for none of them, but Bernardo Galvez, the Governor General at New Orleans, shall know of what is passing at Beaulieu.”

The face of Alvarez contracted into a terrible frown.  Nevertheless he feared the unarmed priest.  He was helpless against him and he feared, too, that if he persisted Father Montigny would quickly learn of other and deeper matters.  He broke into a short and by no means hearty laugh.

“Perhaps I was going rather far,” he said, “but this youth has provoked me beyond endurance.  Take away those things, Gaspar.”

The Spaniard whom he indicated took the irons, and Henry sat down again in his chair.  The threatened ignominy had stung him deeply and he said under his breath:  “I thank you, Father Montigny.”  Then Alvarez ordered Henry to be taken away, also.

Henry arose without resistance, and walked from the hall with the soldiers.  As he passed, Father Montigny put his hand on his shoulder and said:  “I am your friend, my son.”

Henry said nothing but gave him a look of deep gratitude as he walked proudly out.

CHAPTER XII

THE SHADOW IN THE FOREST

Luiz and his comrades escorted Henry back to the prison, and the expressive face of Luiz showed pleasure.  He made a vigorous pantomime and spoke words in Spanish.

“Yes, I understand your meaning if not your language, my friend,” said Henry, “and I thank you.  I am glad to know that I have your good will.”

When the door of his prison was thrown open and Henry was then shut in again with his comrades they looked at him expectantly.