Pres. Besides, Vera, he is just the man to give us the information we want about some business we have in hand to-night.
Vera. Be it so if you wish it.
Pres. Brothers, is it your will that Prince Paul Maraloffski be admitted, and take the oath of the Nihilist?
Consps. It is! it is!
Pres. (holding out dagger and a paper). Prince Paul, the dagger or the oath?
Prince Paul (smiles sardonically). I would sooner annihilate than be annihilated. (Takes paper.)
Pres. Remember: [6]Betray us, and as long as the earth holds poison or steel, as long as men can strike or woman betray, you shall not escape vengeance.[6] The Nihilists never forget their friends, or forgive their enemies.
Prince Paul. Really? I did not think you were so civilized.
Vera (pacing up and down). Why is he not here? He will not keep the crown. I know him well.
Pres. Sign. (Prince Paul signs.) You said you thought we had no creed. You were wrong. Read it!