My comrades and I will do your countrymen no further harm.

As to the supplies offered by you, we accept them as a gift, not as a ransom.

One parting word I have to add, however, and I bid you mark it well: we cannot promise you that some day a renegade from your own midst may not plunge your town into war and bloodshed.' With that we shook hands and kissed each other; and I can assure you positively that from here to the Aranyos our way will be clear." "But how did you win them over so easily, I should like to know?
Surely, the sixteen oxen and a few casks of brandy could not have done it." "I gained my end simply by telling the truth.

I told them about our setting the beech-tree on fire.

They had taken it for a signal, and the mistake might have cost them dear." "And did they believe you ?" "No, they doubted my word and discussed the matter a long time in their council, one party being strongly opposed to any change in their preconcerted arrangements; and this faction pressed urgently for my immediate execution." "What, then, was it that saved you ?" "A mere chance--no, it was Providence, rather.