"Your explanation is too diaphanous to be convincing."
"I did not come here to convince you," said Mrs. Arne, dryly, "but to inform you that we intend to give you a chance to save your life."
"Save my life?" echoed Mallow (he could not repress a slight tremor). "Your meaning has been murder, then?"
"We never use that word; but call it so if you will. In three nights from now there is called a meeting of the Brotherhood in the cellar of this house. You will be brought down to take the oath."
"And if I refuse?"
"Then we--remove you," said Madame, in silky tones. "Take the oath and you go free, for you can break it only at the imminent risk of your life. A hundred eyes will be always on you, a hundred feet will dog your steps. One rash word, one hint to the police about our affairs, and you die."
"You dare not kill me."
Madame laughed.
"Put that to the test if you will by refusing the oath," said she, indifferently. "For myself, I think you better dead. It is the doctor's wish that you have this chance."
"I suppose you know the risk you run? My friends will search diligently for me."