"We are in an extremely embarrassing position.

You must not think I fail to realize this.

It would be comparatively easy for me to choose my course but for that.

I do not know why you serve me thus--risking your very life and your professional future--but neither of us must forget, not for a moment, that I am only a runaway slave.

I can only consent to go with you, Lieutenant Knox, if you promise me this." I hesitated to make the pledge, to put it into binding words, my lips pressed tightly together, my hands clinched.