" (The
tender word of Father Tenau when he blessed her that last time in Grand
Portage)
"The time has come when I must take my people out of your post, must
break their contract and their word. Forgive them, M'sieu, and lay not
the fault to them, for I, and I only, am to blame. But the time I
promised is too long.... I can no longer hold back the tide of longing
which drives me to that land of which we spoke once...." (Here there
was a break in the letter, a smudge on the page, as if the quill had
caught the paper or a drop of moisture run into the ink.)
"I must go forward, and at once, to the Athabasca. The great quest is
strong at my heartstrings again. I thank you, M'sieu, for all kindness
done my people, and I promise that, should fortune favour them and me
in that far land to which we journey, they shall send what trade lies
with them to De Seviere. For one thing I ask,--if it be possible,
M'sieu, give to certain men who will be found by word to Mr. Mowbray of
York, such stipend as you can, for they were good and faithful,--
namely, Frith and Wilson and McDonald, Brilliers and Alloybeau....
Adieu, M'sieu. God send you health. (Signed)
"MAREN LE MOYNE, of Grand Portage.
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