I might be a spy, and I might not; he possessed no doubt a moment before, yet the very boldness of my words had already half convinced him there might be some mistake.

Should he call to the men on the steps yonder, denounce me, and turn me over to the guard?
That was the easiest way for him, the greater disgrace to me.

Yet if, by any chance, I proved later innocent of the charge, then he would become the laughingstock of the army.

I heard his teeth grate savagely as he realized his dilemma, and laughed outright.
"You do not seem altogether pleased, my friend; what are you, a toy soldier ?" "Hell's acre! I'll show you what I am." I saw the sudden flash of his drawn blade, and flung up my own in guard.
"Wait; not here, Captain," I insisted quickly.

"We're far too near your watchful friends yonder; besides the light is poor.