"May I trust you?" hesitated Thames.
"Why did I not keep the money when I had it?" returned Blueskin, angrily. "Not a farthing of it shall be expended except in the Captain's service."
"Take it," replied Thames.
"You have saved his life," replied Blueskin. "And now, mark me. You owe what I have done for you, to him, not to me. Had I not known that you and your affianced bride are dearer to him than life I should have used this money to secure my own safety. Take it, and take the estates, in Captain Sheppard's name. Promise me one thing before I leave you."
"What is it?" asked Thames.
"If the Captain is taken to Tyburn, be near the place of execution—at the end of the Edgeware Road."
"I will."
"In case of need you will lend a helping hand?"
"Yes—yes."
"Swear it!"