"A good pipe is a splendid fortifier of both body and soul, after a great crisis." Mr.McLean accepted a pipe and smoked it with methodical calm.

Robert saw that a great content was settling upon both him and Mr.Huysman, and, presently, the burgher began to tell him news of vital importance, news that they had not known even in Boston when he left.

It seemed that the Albany men had channels through Canada itself, by which they learned quickly of great events in the enemy's camp.
"Wolfe with his fleet and army will be in the Gulf of St.Lawrence very soon," said Master Jacobus, "and by autumn they will certainly appear before Quebec.

Whatever happens there it will not be another Duquesne, nor yet a Ticonderoga.

You must know, Robert, that the great merchants of the great ports get the best of information from England and from France too, because it is to their interest to do so.