human
One would think it a time of peace, said he,
gpt
Of that last question, ask me again when we are alone, replied his father.
human
As for the rest, it is by no will of mine that our people are to be called off from their wood-cutting and their tillage. To the last moment, you see, I encourage the pursuits of peace. But, if you could see closely these men in the forest and the fields, you would find that, as formerly, they have the cutlass at their belt, and the rifle slung across their shoulders. They are my most trusty soldiery.
gpt
Because they love you best, and owe most to you. What has Vincent discovered below there--far-off? Have you your glass, father?
human
The deputation, perhaps,
gpt
Yes: there they are! They have crossed the Trois Rivieres, and they are creeping up towards Plaisance. What a mere handful the party looks at this distance! What mere insects to be about to pull the thunder down upon so many heads! What an atom of space they cover! Yet Vincent's heart is on that little spot, I believe. Is it not so, father?
human
Yes! unless some of it is, as I fear, with the fleet beyond the ridge.
gpt
He will be missing, some day soon, then.
human
For his own sake and Aimee's, I trust not. This step of hers has disconcerted me: but no harm can be done by detaining Vincent in honour near me, till the turn of events may decide his inclinations in favour of Aimee's father, and of his own race. Detained he must be, for the present, in dishonour, if not in honour: for he knows too much of my affairs to be allowed to see Leclerc. If Aimee returns to us, or if we gain a battle, Vincent will be ours without compulsion. Meantime, I keep him always employed beside me.
gpt
This is the place for our post, surely, said Placide.
human
See how the rocks are rising on either hand above this level! No one could pass here whom we choose to obstruct.
gpt
Yes: this is the spot; these are the Plateaux,