"And he could have sunk so low as to sell himself and those who trusted him."
"They were criminals."
"It doesn't lessen his treachery."
"Don't waste a thought on him, least of all any sentimental emotion. He wasted little enough on you, and would have insulted you in my presence, had I permitted it; he sold your freedom with less compunction than he sold his honour or his friends."
"Enough!" she cried, her eyes sparkling. "He is forgotten. We will speak of something else. Let me use my time to better purpose, by trying to thank you—to begin to thank you, for all you've done for me."
"You can repay me if you like."
"What is the payment, then, for which you ask?"
"My Chief has received a request from your father this morning, that you be put in charge of some responsible person, to come home to him."
"Ah!" she said, "that is no favour, it is good news."
"You must hear me out. Your father requested the Minister to nominate your escort."