The
Governor is, however, so jealous for the honour of his Canadians,
that he seeks in his dispatches to give all the credit of victory
to them. So it is natural that the French minister should be chary
of sending out regulars, which are so urgently needed over there
for the war. Monsieur de Montcalm has told my uncle many things on
this very point. He is always urging the Government to send us more
men, but he can only get the half of what he needs. Perhaps, in
days to come, France may regret that she did not listen better to
his representations. We shall have need of good men if this city is
to be held for her against the English."
When the lads reached their home, they found the Abbe and his
sister deep in talk. Corinne had been listening with attention, but
now she turned eagerly to the lads, to ask what news they brought.
Their tale was soon told, and all faces were grave.
"It will be a disastrous thing for the city to be bombarded," said
the Abbe. "It may not bring the capitulation any nearer, but it
will harass and dishearten the citizens. I am truly sorry for them;
they will certainly suffer. It should have been better managed than
that those opposite heights should fall so easy a prey to the foe.
Again that is the mismanagement of the Governor."
"Several boats have come over from the opposite shore," whispered
Corinne to her brother, "bringing news of what happened there.
Pages:
369
370
371
372
373
374
375
376
377
378
379
380
381
382
383
384
385
386
387
388
389
390
391
392
393