I mean that I alone can protect you and your place and people in the bad times which are coming.

I have more influence in the land than you know of.

Perhaps even, I could stave off the war, and if it suited me to do so I would do it.

At the least I could keep you from being harmed, that I know.

But I have my price, _Oom_ Silas, as we all have, and it must be money down and no credit." "I don't understand you and your dark sayings," said the old man coldly.
"I am a straightforward man, and if you will tell me what you mean I will give you my answer; if not, I don't see the good of our going on talking." "Very well; I will tell you what I mean.