Well, in the hour when he
ceases to be a smuggler for ever, armed men come to take him. Why didn't
they do so before? Why so pious all at once? No; I am first the
daughter of my father, and afterwards--"
"And afterwards?"
"What to-morrow may bring forth."
Lafarge became very serious. "I must go back. Mr. Martin is signalling,
and your father is calling. I do not understand, but you're the one
woman in the world for my money, and I'm ready to stand by that and leave
the customs to-morrow if need be."
Joan's eyes blazed, her cheek was afire. "Leave it to-day. Leave it
now. Yes; that's my one condition. If you want me, and you say you do,
come aboard the Ninety-Nine, and for to-day be one of us-to-morrow what
you will."
"What I will? What I will, Joan? Do you mean it?"
"Yes. Pshaw! Your duty? Don't I know how the Ministers and the
officers have done their duty at Quebec? It's all nonsense. You must
make your choice once for all now."
Lafarge stood a moment thinking. "Joan, I'll do it. I'd go hunting in
hell at your bidding. But see. Everything's changed. I couldn't fight
against you, but I can fight for you. All must be open now. You've said
there's no contraband. Well, I'll tell Mr. Martin so, but I'll tell him
also that you've only a crew of two--"
"Of three, now!"
"Of three! I will do my duty in that, then resign and come over to you,
if I can.
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