"The roads are dangerous, and may be filled with rebels," said the innkeeper.
"Then must we fight our way through the vermin," said Nicholas.
"This rogue shall go before and get the first sword in his wretched body," said Chow, jerking the rope by which he held the guide, whose teeth chattered together with terror at the notion.
Then telling the innkeeper where to find the dead boar, Nicholas bade him and his family farewell.
"May the great Tien aid thee!" said the woman.
"Leave us thy name, O noble youth, that it may be marked on the memories of our descendants," said the innkeeper.
Nicholas took the man aside, and whispered in his ear.
"It is a terrible name," said the man, bowing his head to the ground.
"It is a good one, and the son will restore thee thy village, O worthy man, if the rebels take not his life," said Nicholas.
"The princess, the princess, and my beloved mother," exclaimed Chow.