That you guard this lady Heliodore to the last, and that, while one of you remains alive, she shall be to you as though she were that man's daughter, or mother, or sister, to help and protect as best he may in every circumstance, seen or unforeseen.

Further, that with her you guard her father, the noble Egyptian Magas.

Will you promise this to me ?" "Aye!" they roared in answer.
"You hear them, Heliodore," I said.

"Know that henceforth you are one of a large family, and, however great your enemies, that you will never lack a friend.

Comrades," I went on, "this is my second order, and perchance the last that I shall ever give to you.