His manner was suddenly changed.
"Scarlett Trent," he cried, "Scarlett Trent, listen to me! You are young and I am old! To you this may be one adventure amongst many--it is my last.

I've craved for such a chance as this ever since I set foot in this cursed land.

It's come late enough, too late almost for me, but I'm going through with it while there's breath in my body.

Swear to me now that you will not back out! Do you hear, Trent?
Swear!" Trent looked curiously at his companion, vastly interested in this sudden outburst, in the firmness of his tone and the tightening of the weak mouth.

After all, then, the old chap had some grit in him.