They were very careful indeed, and took a long, long time to consider.
“It won’t do for me to answer,” thought the trembling servants, “for they will be sure to commence hanging the biggest rogues first.”
“So there is no rogue at all among you, I find, eh? Ha! ha! Well, then, who thinks himself the most pious among you? Tell me that.”
Roger was about to reply, but the words stuck fast in his throat, as he thought,
“If I answer, they will do for me first as the best prepared to die; no, no, he don’t entrap me with his puzzling questions.”
So thought the rest.
“No goodness among ye all, then, eh?” said the chief. “Why, a moment ago ye were all praying like so many saints. Come, answer me this, the third time, then I’ll give some of you another chance. Who considers himself to be brave among you, and don’t fear death? Answer me!”
No one did so, however.
“How artful this bloodthirsty monster is!” each thought; “for those who don’t fear death are sure to be hung first!”
“Well, no one answers, I find,” said the chief, laughing. “I’ll give you a last chance, poor devils; mark me, the only one you’ll have. Who is the greatest coward among you, and fears most to die?”