We have somewhat anticipated events, so we now retrace our steps, and place ourselves within Champlain’s defenceless stronghold as its fatal hour approached.  On Thursday, July 19th, 1629, a savage named La Nasse by the French, and Manitougatche by his own people, informed the Jesuits that three English ships were in sight off the Island of Orleans, behind Point Levis, and that six other vessels were anchored at Tadousac.  Champlain was already aware that some ships were at Tadousac, but he was surprised to learn that the enemy had approached Quebec, and at first he thought that they might be French ships.  There was no one in Fort St. Louis at the time he received this news, as every one had gone out in search of plants which were used as food; he therefore sent for Father Le Caron and the Jesuits to consult with them as to what measures should be taken.  In the meantime the English fleet was steadily approaching, and at length drew up at a certain distance from the city.  A shallop was then sent out from the admiral’s ship, carrying at her mainmast a white flag.  Champlain caused a similar flag to be run up over the fort, and Kirke’s emissary came ashore and presented to Champlain the following letter:—­

“Monsieur:—­In consequence of what our brother told you last year that sooner or later he would have Quebec, if not succoured, he has charged us to assure you of his friendship as we do of ours; and knowing very well the extreme need of everything in which you are, desires that you shall surrender the fort and the settlement to us, assuring you of every kind of courtesy for you and yours, and also of honourable and reasonable terms, such as you may wish.  Waiting your reply, we remain, monsieur, your very affectionate servants,

“Louis and Thomas Quer.

     “On board the Flibot, this July 19th, 1629.”

Champlain immediately prepared his answer, the terms of which had previously been agreed upon by the fathers.  Kirke’s representative did not understand a word of the French language, but he had a fair knowledge of Latin.  Father de la Roche d’Aillon was therefore requested by Champlain to act as interpreter, and he asked the following questions:—­“Is war declared between France and England?” “No,” replied the English representative.  “Why, then, do you come here to trouble us if our princes live in peace?” he was asked.

Champlain then requested Father de la Roche to go aboard the English vessels to ascertain from the chiefs what they intended to do.  The interview between Father de la Roche and Louis Kirke was courteous, but the answers of the latter were far from being satisfactory.  “If Champlain,” said the English captain, “gives up the keys of the fortress and of the habitation we promise to convey you all to France, and will treat you well; if not we will oblige him by force.”  Father de la Roche tried to obtain fifteen days’ delay, or even eight days, but it was of no avail.