If we escape I may fairly claim to have saved your life, 'twixt what I have done and what I may yet do.

Is it not so ?" "Oh, I acknowledge it!" "Then, sir, in payment I shall expect your aid hereafter to help me in that which I must accomplish, that which the hope of accomplishing is the only spur to my own escape." "You have my promise!" cried the lad.
"Do not give it lightly, Kenneth," said Crispin gravely.

"It may cause you much discomfort, and may be fraught with danger even to your life." "I promise." Galliard bowed his head; then, turning, he took the Bible from the table.
"With your hand upon this book, by your honour, your faith, and your every hope of salvation, swear that if I bear you alive out of this house you will devote yourself to me and to my task of vengeance until it shall be accomplished or until I perish; swear that you will set aside all personal matters and inclinations of your own, to serve me when I shall call upon you.

Swear that, and, in return, I will give my life if need be to save yours to-night, in which case you will be released from your oath without more ado." The lad paused a moment.

Crispin was so impressive, the oath he imposed so solemn, that for an instant the boy hesitated.