nobility and our swords, have fought ourselves poor, and receive
nothing but contempt from the ungrateful courtiers of Versailles."

Their conversation was interrupted by a sudden rush of people,
making room for the passage of the Regiment of Bearn, which composed
part of the garrison of Quebec, on their march to their morning
drill and guard-mounting,--bold, dashing Gascons in blue and white
uniforms, tall caps, and long queues rollicking down their supple
backs, seldom seen by an enemy.

Mounted officers, laced and ruffled, gaily rode in front.
Subalterns with spontoons and sergeants with halberds dressed the
long line of glistening bayonets. The drums and fifes made the
streets ring again, while the men in full chorus, a gorge deployee,
chanted the gay refrain of La Belle Canadienne in honor of the
lasses of Quebec.

The Governor and his suite had already mounted their horses, and
cantered off to the Esplanade to witness the review.

"Come and dine with us today," said the Lady de Tilly to La Corne
St. Luc, as he too bade the ladies a courteous adieu, and got on
horseback to ride after the Governor.

"Many thanks! but I fear it will be impossible, my Lady: the council
of war meets at the Castle this afternoon. The hour may be
deferred, however, should Colonel Philibert not chance to find the
Intendant at Beaumanoir, and then I might come; but best not expect
me."