Moreover, I am ready to swear to the terms of the agreement." There was a little pause.

Guy Oscard took his pipe from his mouth, and while he knocked the ashes out against the leg of his chair he mumbled, "I swear to hold that agreement." Victor Durnovo took off his hat with a sweep and a flourish, and, raising his bared brow to the stars, he said, "I swear to hold to that agreement.

If I fail, may God strike me dead!".