"You remember in the old times, Imp, when knights rode out to battle, it was customary for them when they made a solemn promise to kiss the cross-hilt of their swords, just to show they meant to keep it. So now I ask you to go back to your Auntie Lisbeth, to take care of her, to shield and guard her from all things evil, and never to forget that you are her loyal and true knight; and now kiss your sword in token, will you?" and I passed back the weapon.
"Yes," he answered, with glistening eyes, "I will, on my honour," and he kissed the sword.
"Good!" I exclaimed. "Thank you, Imp."
"But are you really going away?" he inquired, looking at me with a troubled face.
"Yes!"
"Must you go?"
"Yes."
"Will you promise to come back some day--soon?"
"Yes, I promise."
"On your honour?"