"'Tis not often that ministers of the Holy Mother Church are threatened thus," said Martin coolly, and without altering his position.
"I will drive my dagger to the heart of every member of this household," said Parry, "rather than endanger the success of my project."
"That in itself would ruin the project, as far as you are its executor," returned Martin, "since you would be likely to be apprehended and suffer for your violence."
"Swear upon the hilt of my poniard not to divulge what I have just related," said Parry, becoming somewhat less excited, and thrusting his dagger close to the mouth of Martin. "Swear."
"I am ready to do so," said Martin, quietly moving the steel from its close proximity to his lips, "with one reservation however, that Sir Hugh Clopton is to be informed of it."
"Ah," said Parry, seeming to reflect, and as suddenly changing from his excited state to comparative calmness, "was I not told to take the advice of Father Eustace, as to the propriety of making Sir Hugh Clopton acquainted with this design? And you advise such measure, do you, father?"
"Most assuredly; for what other purpose have you sought his roof?"
"For the purpose," said Parry, "of being in the vicinity of others cognizant of my design in this country, and of conferring with yourself in security, since my steps and motions, until I took refuge in Warwickshire, have been closely watched."
"Good," returned Martin. "Now, wilt follow my advice since you have been sent to seek it?"
"I will," said Parry.