"I want you to help me to take her from here, and carry her to Bodmin. After that, I care not." "But there will be danger," I said. "I must know something more about the matter before I give you my word." "Nay, I will tell you no more!" he cried angrily. "And if I refuse?" He gave no answer, but looked black. Whereupon I bethought me of the usual plan of those who are undecided. "I must have time to think," I said; "this request of yours hath come upon me suddenly. Come to me to-morrow night at this time and I will give you my answer." "And in the mean time you are a gentleman?" he queried. "I am a prisoner." "But you will not speak to the serving-men about what hath been spoken in confidence?" "There is surely no need to ask me such a question," I said. He looked at me keenly. "It is well, Roger Trevanion," he said. "I shall look on you as my ally and prepare accordingly. I can trust you, for you are a man, and love men. By the mass, they shall all know that Benet is more than a match for Otho! Good-night, Trevanion. I am ill pleased that you should have to spend another night in this hole, but it may not be helped. I will have my plans ready by to-morrow night,--and then----" He strutted towards the door as he spoke, taking the key from his pocket meanwhile. My heart gave a great leap, for a daring plan came into my mind. I had no time to consider its value, for it required instant action. I determined to put it to the test without delay. "Wait a moment, Killigrew," I said. "There is just another matter before you go." He turned around willingly. I could see he was in no haste to depart. "You are sure our conversation hath not been heard?" I said, looking at him steadily. "Do you think I am a fool?" he said vainly. "I went to the door to see that Otho had not ferreted us out. As for the guard, I told him to keep away until I came back." My heart seemed to be in my mouth, for this fell in exactly with the plan that had been so suddenly born in my mind. "It is well," I replied. Then I waited a second, measuring Benet with my eye. "You have told me that I am a man after your own heart," I continued presently. "You said you could trust me because I could fight. But it seems I must take you on trust. It is ill undertaking a difficult and dangerous piece of work with a man who may be able to do nothing but talk." His eyes burnt red, a fierce expression flashed across his face. "Do you say that to me--Benet Killigrew?" he said in tones of angry wonder. "Yes, to you," I replied, still keeping my eyes steadily upon him. I saw the vexation pass away, and in its place came a look of wild joy. "You want to know if I can fight--whether I have courage?" he cried eagerly. "Ah!" I cried in the same tone. "There is one way you can know," he continued. "Try now, will you?"