The muzzle of the pistol was within a foot of his eyes.
"I want the key of the boat.

That is all, Fresnel.

And you can either give it me at once, or I'll take it after I have burnt your brains.

I should regret to kill you, but I shall not hesitate.

It is your life against mine, Fresnel; and you'll not find it strange that if one of us must die I prefer that it shall be you." Fresnel dipped a hand into his pocket, and fetched thence a key.