When Valmond Came to Pontiac, Volume 2. by Gilbert Parker
page 71 of 74 (95%)
page 71 of 74 (95%)
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but he stood erect and quiet. His uniform was that of a general of the
Empire. It was rather dingy, yet it was of rich material, and he wore the ribbon of the Legion of Honour on his breast. His paleness was not of fear, for when his eyes met Monsieur De la Riviere's, there was in them waiting, inquiry--nothing more. He greeted them all politely, and Medallion warmly, shaking his hand twice; for he knew well that the gaunt auctioneer had only kindness in his heart; and they had exchanged humorous stories more than once--a friendly bond. He motioned towards his tent near by, but the young Seigneur declined. Valmond looked round, and ordered away a listening soldier. "It is business and imperative," said De la Riviere. Valmond bowed. "Isn't it time this burlesque was ended?" continued the challenger, waving a hand towards the encampment. "My presence here is my reply," answered Valmond. "But how does it concern monsieur?" "All that concerns Pontiac concerns me." "And me; I am as good a citizen as you." "You are troubling our people. This is illegal--this bearing arms, these purposes of yours. It is mere filibustering, and you are an--" Valmond waved his hand, as if to stop the word. "I am Valmond Napoleon, monsieur." "If you do not promise to forego this, I will arrest you," said De la |
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