Almost I feel as though the rope were tightening about my throat at last; it came upon me while that accursed Spaniard crossed himself at my table.

Well, so be it; I will hide the truth while I can, but if they catch me I'll not deny it.

The money is safe, most of it; my wealth they shall never get, and now I will make my daughter safe also, as with Peter she must be.

I would I had not put it off so long; but I hankered after a great marriage for her, which, being a Christian, she well might make.

I'll mend that fault; before to-morrow's morn she shall be plighted to him, and before May-day his wife.