So, by and by when I heard footsteps coming, that thought was recalled to me, and I said to myself, "As sure as anything, it's the compromise.

Well, if it is good, all right, I will accept; but if it isn't, I mean to stand my ground and play my hand for all it is worth." The door opened, and some men-at-arms appeared.

The leader said: "The stake is ready.

Come!" The stake! The strength went out of me, and I almost fell down.
It is hard to get one's breath at such a time, such lumps come into one's throat, and such gaspings; but as soon as I could speak, I said: "But this is a mistake--the execution is to-morrow." "Order changed; been set forward a day.

Haste thee!" I was lost.