The question is how to get to the bottom of it.

Of course, the grand master might order the arrest of this Greek and of the prison officer, but you may be sure that neither would commit himself unless torture were applied; and I, for one, have no belief in what any man says under such circumstances.

The most honest man may own himself a traitor when racked with torture, and may denounce innocent men.

It is at best a clumsy device.

What think you of the matter ?" "I have hardly thought it over yet, Sir John; and certainly no plan has yet occurred to me." "Well, think it over, Sir Gervaise.