Mark did not keep them long in suspense, for his hand went to the hilt of his sword, which he half drew.
"Now," he said, "beg for your life, Darley." "Coward!" cried Ralph, in a hoarse whisper.
"Very well," said Mark.

"I gave you the chance.

You were caught by our men stealing on our land, and you ought to have begged.

The Darleys always were beggars and thieves; but you will not.

I gave you the opportunity." He thrust the sword back in its sheath, and let his right hand fall to his side, where a strong knife-like dagger hung by a short chain from his belt, and whipped it out of its case.
"Does for a hunting-knife," he said, with a curious laugh.