Well, thought I, I will perish before the jewel reaches the Portuguese's hands.

He hoped for a stampede when Arcoll opposed the crossing of the river, and in the confusion intended to steal the casket.

My plan must be to get as near the old priest as possible before we reached the ford.

I spoke to my warder and told him what I wanted.

He nodded, and in the first mile we managed to edge a good way forward.