There was a demon in the cavern, they said, whence the water came.

There was no use angering it, no use in losing another life.
Roy struggled madly in their detaining hands, but Old Faithful and Foster-father looked at each other.

Whether there was a demon or not it was a risk to another life and that should not be a young one.
"No, boy!" said the old warrior stoutly.

"This is my task, not thine.

I am good swordsman to begin with, and demons--if there be any--like not a clean sword thrust.