After this the allies made their way back to the
St. Lawrence, when the Hurons and Algonquins returned to their
settlements toward the Ottawa region, while Champlain and the Montagnais
descended the river to Quebec.
The battle with the Iroquois took place on July 30, 1609, so that upward
of two and a half months had been occupied in the campaign. In September
following Champlain set sail for France, accompanied by Pontegrave.
Before he left Quebec he made all the arrangements in his power for the
safety of those left to winter there. A trustworthy commander was
appointed; and in order to prevent the necessity of outdoor labor during
the time of severe cold, a supply of fuel was provided in the autumn; for
it was supposed that exposure and hard work combined were among the
causes of the terrible malady which had afflicted Champlain's people in
the winter of 1608.
On his arrival in France he reported his adventures and the condition of
New France to the King, by whom he was treated with the utmost
consideration and kindness. Nevertheless, owing to opposition and clamor,
it was found impossible to bring about the renewal of the charter, which
had expired.
In spite of this, De Monts succeeded in procuring the means of fitting
out two vessels in the spring of 1610, in which Champlain and Pontegrave
set sail from Harfleur about the middle of April, and arrived at
Tadoussac on May 26th.
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