"I am willing to let you purchase your life, but the terms will be heavy."
"I am in your power and must pay them," he answered, sullenly, but with unmistakable relief.
"First, then, understand this: What has passed here to-night shall never be breathed by either my friends or myself. So far as we are concerned your reputation outside shall stand just where it did when you entered the room. On that I give you my word of honour—if you deal straightly with me. A sign of treachery or a single lie from you, and the truth shall be told."
"I agree to that, of course."
"Moreover, my right to fire this shot is merely postponed, not waived. You will put down in writing what will justify me should your treachery ever make it necessary for me to shoot you."
"I will do that." He was beginning to speak fluently and readily now.
"You will now answer my questions. Are you in Sebastian Quesada's pay or in his power?"
"In his power. He concocted a false charge against me some time ago, confronted me with the proofs, and threatened to have me prosecuted. I dare not face the charge, and from that moment he has used me for various tasks."
"Amongst them this business of the young King's abduction?"
He started violently as I made this rather bold shot.