"Then I shall tell you plainly what I want, for there must be no doubtful matter in this connection between us now.

You must promise me, one and all, even you, my beloved husband, that should the time come, you will kill me." "What is that time ?" The voice was Quincey's, but it was low and strained.
"When you shall be convinced that I am so changed that it is better that I die that I may live.

When I am thus dead in the flesh, then you will, without a moment's delay, drive a stake through me and cut off my head, or do whatever else may be wanting to give me rest!" Quincey was the first to rise after the pause.

He knelt down before her and taking her hand in his said solemnly, "I'm only a rough fellow, who hasn't, perhaps, lived as a man should to win such a distinction, but I swear to you by all that I hold sacred and dear that, should the time ever come, I shall not flinch from the duty that you have set us.

And I promise you, too, that I shall make all certain, for if I am only doubtful I shall take it that the time has come!" "My true friend!" was all she could say amid her fast-falling tears, as bending over, she kissed his hand.
"I swear the same, my dear Madam Mina!" said Van Helsing.