"Never! Your liberty, yes, if the worst comes to the worst and because I know you and know that, denuded of all resources, you will simply go and get yourself hanged somewhere else. But the God-Stone would spell safety, wealth, the power to do evil . . ."
"That's exactly why I want it," said Vorski; "and, by telling me what it's worth, you make me all the more difficult in the matter of François."
"I shall find François all right. It's only a question of patience; and I shall stay two or three days longer, if necessary."
"You will not find him; and, if you do, it will be too late."
"Why?"
"Because he has had nothing to eat since yesterday."
This was said coldly and maliciously. There was a silence; and Don Luis retorted:
"In that case, speak, if you don't want him to die."
"What do I care? Anything rather than fail in my task and stop midway when I've got so far. The end is within sight: those who get in my way must look out for themselves."
"You lie. You won't let that boy die."