"Not until you have heard all I wish to say—" As I spoke, with a movement incredibly quick, she flashed out her knife.
"What, Diana," said I, staring into her fierce eyes, "do you think that is necessary with me? Would you harm your friend, child?" The fierce eyes drooped and, averting her head, she sat mute and still. "I am going to help you," I continued, "because in spite of any or every demon, I know you are sweet and pure and good."
"How—d'ye know this?" she questioned.
"I know it, I am sure of it—oh, well—because!"
"That's no answer!" said she in her turn.
"Still, I think you know what I mean. But, and this is very sure, Diana, because I respect you, I would have the world respect you. And therefore I am going to help you however I may. So that is settled once for all."
"Suppose I—runs away?"
"I shall have to find you, of course."
"Then you—don't want to be rid o' me—so much?"
"Certainly not!"