I could not well see his face, but the rings in his ears glistened in the sunlight.
I drew back cautiously, for my companion was plucking at my jacket.
"Listen," he said--and his hoarse voice was sunk so low that I could scarcely catch his words--"Listen.

If he catches us it's death-- death to me, but perhaps he may let you off, though he's a cold-blooded, murderous devil.

However, there's no saying but you might get off.

Any way, it'll be safest for you to have this.
Here, take it quick, and stow it away in your jacket, so as he can't see it.

For the love of God, look sharp!" He took something out of a pocket inside his shirt, and forced it into my hands.