If so, I can buy myself off with a ransom." Then turning to the monk at the altar he asked, "How much do you demand, captain ?" A threatening murmur greeted these insolent words.

The monk at the altar stretched out his hand.
"You are mistaken, Sir John.

We are not a band of thieves," said he in a tone as calm and composed as Sir John's, "and the proof is, that if you have money or jewels upon you, you need only give me your instructions, and they will be remitted either to your family or the person whom you designate." "And what guarantee shall I have that my last wishes will be carried out ?" "My word." "The word of the leader of assassins! I don't trust it." "This time, as before, you are mistaken, Sir John.

I am no more the leader of assassins than I am a captain of thieves." "Who are you, then ?" "The elect of celestial vengeance.

I am the envoy of Jehu, King of Israel, who was anointed by the prophet Elisha to destroy the house of Ahab." "If you are what you say, why do you veil your faces?
Why do you wear armor under your robes?
The elect strike openly; they risk death in giving death.