But I wouldn't give a ha'penny for your
life, if you run afoul of that man Ballard. At least you know, or you
should, that I'm an honorable man."
"You speak of honor," said Stephen, "and trust. And yet you won't even
tell me your name. Don't I deserve that much?"
"I will tell you that when we have set them free, along with anything
else you like. I don't ask you to understand that, just accept it.
Anonymity is my one defense. That's the way it is."
... "I need time to think," said Stephen finally.
"And you shall have it. After I finish here I've got a long ride ahead
of me, to make preparations. You shall have most of the day. But
whatever you decide, we must be gone from here tonight. If I know
human nature, your Ballard won't send anyone to relieve his comrade,
or come himself, till tomorrow at least. Be we can't take that
chance."
"And what if he comes back today? You're not going to bind me, and
leave me here without a weapon?"
"I'm not going to bind you at all. As for a weapon, you've got
surprise. And you've got something far more lethal.
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