There is no war between
Louisiana and Kaintock. What right have you to put this youth in chains?"
He took a step further, and the rebuking hand was still uplifted. The
soldiers shrank back and more than one crossed himself. Yet they were
relieved, as Father Montigny had interfered with a task that they did not
like.
"I have the utmost respect for Holy Church," replied Alvarez, though it
cost him an effort to utter the words, "but I am in command here and all
military affairs fall under my jurisdiction. This young man is a dangerous
spy and plotter from Kaintock, one who has used force against us. He and
his comrades seized one of our boats and that was an act of war."
"He is a good youth," said Father Montigny. "He and his comrades did me a
great service. I know that his motives are good, and I will not see him
treated in such barbarous fashion."
The face of Alvarez darkened. This was more than he could stand.
"I am the judge in these matters," he replied, "and I tell you, Father
Montigny, that you must not interfere. Your order, the Capuchins, are in
power now at New Orleans, as I know, but the Jesuits may come back. I
should favor their returning."
"It is not a question of Capuchin or Jesuit," replied Father Montigny
sternly, "and you, Francisco Alvarez, should know it.
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