I had determined on a cold business-like manner. I went as straight to the point as a busy man in his city office.
‘You know the plan? You consent to it?’ I asked.
‘Yes. I think I understand it. It is good of you, my lord. For you may run great danger through me.’
That was indeed true, and in more senses than one.
‘I do for you what you did not hesitate to do for me,’ said I.
‘Yes,’ said Phroso in a very low whisper.
‘You pretended; well then, now I pretend.’ My voice sounded not only cold, but bitter and unpleasant. ‘I think it may succeed,’ I continued. ‘He won’t dare to take any extreme steps against me. I don’t see how he can prevent our going.’
‘He will let us go, you think?’
‘I don’t know how he can refuse. And where will you go?’
‘I have some friends at Athens, people who knew my father.’