"But, fellow, the game is mine! I can force mate in a few moves. Let me play it out."
"I cannot. It is impossible," repeated the executioner.
"Are the three hours gone already?"
"The last stroke has just struck. We must obey the King."
The assistants, who had until then stood leaning on their swords, came forward at these words.
The Duke was sitting against the wall, under the high window, with the table between him and Calavar. He started to his feet.
"I shall not move until the game is over. In half an hour my head shall be at your disposal."
"My lord," replied Calavar, "I respect you deeply, but I cannot grant you this request. I answer for your life with mine."
Don Gusman made a gesture of impatience, and pulling off his diamond rings, he threw them at the executioner's feet. "I mean to finish the game," he said, carelessly.
The jewels sparkled as they rolled and settled in the dust.