Beltrezzor proceeded to explain everything as he had done to Euphorbus. She heard him patiently, and then said in a quiet tone:
“And, poor good man! do you think I will permit you to be eaten by the lion in my place? Oh no, that is impossible. Think of some other plan.”
“There is no other way. I shall not be eaten by the lion.”
“Why not?”
“Because I am not a Christian. You are condemned for heresy. I am a Gentile.”
“But they will kill you for contriving my escape, and this good keeper also.”
“Oh no! That offence is not punishable with death. They will fine me heavily, but I am rich and can pay. The keeper will escape with you and protect you.”
After much persuasion and argument on one side and many doubts and questionings on the other, Mary’s scruples were at last overcome, and the transformation in both parties effected so adroitly that detection seemed impossible.
Mary suddenly turned her earnest eyes on Beltrezzor’s face.
“Uncle, if you deceive me in this matter, it will kill me.”