than the subsequent narratives of the Jesuits, but in
comparison with them gaining impact from being less
diffuse.

It was on May 20, 1616, that Champlain left the Huron
country, never again to journey thither or to explore
the recesses of the forest. Forty days later he reached
the Sault St Louis, and saw once more his old friend
Pontgrave. Thenceforward his life belongs not to the
wilderness, but to Quebec.



CHAPTER V

CHAMPLAIN'S LAST YEARS

When Champlain reached the Sault St Louis on July 1,
1616, his career as an explorer had ended. The nineteen
years of life that still remained he gave to Quebec and
the duties of his lieutenancy.

By this time he had won the central position in his own
domain. Question might arise as to the terms upon which
a monopoly of trade should be granted, or as to the
persons who should be its recipients. But whatever company
might control the trade, Champlain was the king's
representative in New France. When Boyer affronted him,
the council had required that a public apology should be
offered. When Montmorency instituted the investigation