“What would you have done without me?” said Death-wing to Phillip Redgill, when they were once more alone, and in confidential conversation.
“Why, I must have been hung, I suppose,” said Phillip, with an attempt at a smile.
“A prospect you much liked, I know.”
“Well, it must have been, had not your men rescued me.”
“I know it, and yet all through your career of villany you have looked upon me and my band as hardfisted, ungrateful scoundrels—I know you have.”
“Not so bad as that, quite.”
“Oh, yes, you have. I have heard and know more than you imagine about your doings about town. Had you not taken our oath years ago, not all England could have saved you from gracing a gallows.”
“Well, I know it, and am glad I did take the oath, but what do you require of me now?”
“Nay, we do not want you—it is you who need us.”
“How do you mean?”