“Madame, your husband is safe,” said Humphrey when brought to her to tell his tale; “I have heard it from one who saw him.  He has not suffered any severe hurt at the hands of the Indians.  They were of those who were wavering betwixt loyalty to France and loyalty to England, and who made captives of white men wherever they could, hoping to get a ransom for them.  He was rescued by the English and brought to New York, put safely on board a home-sailing vessel, and doubtless he is safe on shore there by this time.  He will be well treated; have no fears as to that.  The brave Governor of Louisbourg will find many friends in England.”

“Where I will join him!” cried Madame Drucour, clasping her hands.  “Yes, that settles my hesitation.  If my husband is in England, I will go thither and join him; and these children shall go with us, and make acquaintance with their mother’s kindred in Scotland.

“Captain Dautray, can you help us in this matter?  Can you secure for us a passage in one of your many noble ships so soon to return?  You have been so true a friend to us that we appeal to you with confidence and courage.”

“It rejoices me that you should do so, Madame.  I will see to it at once.  If possible, you shall sail in the same ship as I do myself.  I think there will be little difficulty.  Each vessel will transport a certain number of those who desire to return to France or to be carried to English shores.”

Corinne clapped her hands; her whole face lighted up.

“Oh, I shall see England!  I shall realize the dream of my life!

“Colin, do you hear—­do you understand?  We are going to England—­and in Captain Dautray’s ship!”

“Hurrah!” cried the boy; “hurrah for old England!  And if we go in Captain Dautray’s ship, we shall have our middies for our companions, for they are to belong to the Royal William, too.  Ah, that will be something to live for indeed!  When do we sail? and where shall we go when we get there?”

“The Admirals want to leave as soon as possible,” answered Julian; “they have already stayed far beyond the time they intended.  But there is much to arrange, and they will not go till they have sufficiently victualled the town, and settled the new garrison as comfortably and securely as may be.

“Still it will not be long now, And as for the rest, I can only beg of you to come first, upon landing, to the house of Mrs. Wolfe, where I myself am bound.  Madame Drucour’s name is known to her.

“Her son spoke much of you, Madame, and of your kindness to him at Louisbourg.  And they know too how kindly others were treated—­your humble servant being one.  Believe me, it will be the greatest pleasure to Mrs. Wolfe to welcome anyone who has known and loved her son, I have to visit her immediately; come at least with me so far.  After that we will learn where Monsieur Drucour is to be found, and I will seek him out and bring him to you.”