But for God's sake seek it as wise men and not as posturing knaves.

As for Michael Texel--" "Name not the mortal names of men in this place of the White Wolf!" said the same grave voice.
At which I laughed a little.
"If you will tell me what to say instead in the language of the immortals, I will call my friend by that name.

Till then Michael Texel, I say--" I was pulled by force down upon my knees.
"Your pleasure, gentlemen," said I, as coolly as I might; "you may do with me as you will, but give me at least leave to speak.

Your meetings here at the White Swan are known to the Red Axe, my father, and therefore to the Duke Casimir." A low groan filled the wide hall.

I could feel that my words touched them on the raw.
"Also this very night I saw one of your noblest members tremble with alarm--for the Society, not for himself, I warrant--when Gottfried Gottfried spake lightly of your meetings here as of a thing well known.
I am not afraid of my life.