"Well," Brand said, "there is something in that. I believe in the work that Lind is engaged in, if I am doubtful about him. And if it pleases you or him to say that I have joined you merely because I express sympathy, and promise to say nothing, well and good. But you: you are more than that?"
The question somewhat startled Lord Evelyn; and his pale face flushed a little.
"Oh yes," he said; "of course. I—I cannot precisely explain to you."
"I understand. But, if I did really join, I should at least have you for a companion."
Lord Evelyn turned and regarded him.
"If you were to join, it might be that you and I should never see each other again in this world. Have I not told you?—Your first pledge is that of absolute obedience; you have no longer a right to your own life; you become a slave, that others may be free."
"And you would have me place myself in the power of a man like Lind?" Brand exclaimed.
"If it were necessary," said Lord Evelyn, "I should hold myself absolutely at the bidding of Lind; for I am convinced he is an honest man, as he is a man of great ability and unconquerable energy and will. But you would no more put yourself in Lind's power than in mine. Lind is a servant, like the rest of us. It is true he has in some ways a sort of quasi-independent position, which I don't quite understand; but as regards the Society that I have joined, and that you would join, he is a servant, as you would be a servant. But what is the use of talking? Your temperament isn't fitted for this kind of work."
"I want to see my way clear," Brand said, almost to himself.