"My friends," he said simply, "I thank you. I would not force you, and
you will have some days to think over the oath of allegiance to the
Republic. Go now to your homes, and tell those who are awaiting you what
I have said. And if any man of French birth wish to leave this place, he
may go of his own free will, save only three whom I suspect are not our
friends."
They turned, and in an ecstasy of joy quite pitiful to see went trooping
out of the gate. But scarce could they have reached the street and we
have broken ranks, when we saw them coming back again, the priest leading
them as before. They drew near to the spot where Clark stood, talking to
the captains, and halted expectantly.
"What is it, my friends?" asked the Colonel.
The priest came forward and bowed gravely.
"I am Pere Gibault, sir," he said, "cure of Kaskaskia." He paused,
surveying our commander with a clear eye. "There is something that still
troubles the good citizens."
"And what is that, sir?" said Clark.
The priest hesitated.
"If your Excellency will only allow the church to be opened--" he
ventured.
The group stood wistful, fearful that their boldness had displeased,
expectant of reprimand.
"My good Father," said Colonel Clark, "an American commander has but one
relation to any church. And that is" (he added with force) "to protect
it.
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