But from themselves, direct from their own mouths.

Rhod.

You’re pleased to mock my questioning.

Kan.

No, no!

I speak in utter earnest. I stood by

While they set nails a-grubbing at the tables,

Digging their whetted teeth in their own lips

As though ’twere game and not their very flesh,

And took the oath which sure enough they’ll hold.