You cannot deceive an old statesman, sir!'-- turning to the little porter with a look of authority--'poor monk though he be now.

If you think fitting to tell me what you know, I promise you that neither she nor you shall be losers by your confidence in me.

If not, I shall find means to discover.' Both stood silent.
'Philammon, my son! and art thou too in league against--no, not against me; against thyself, poor misguided boy ?' 'Against myself ?' 'Yes--I have said it.

But unless you will trust me, I cannot trust you.' 'I have promised.' 'And I, sir statesman, or monk, or both, or neither, have sworn by the immortal gods!' said the porter, looking very big.
Arsenius paused.
'There are those who hold that an oath by an idol, being nothing, is of itself void.

I do not agree with them.