Tom was able to leave them with a clear conscience, and came over to where Lord Claud was standing in the fore part of the vessel, watching the sheets of green water that fell away from the prow as the sloop cut her way through the waves.
"Well, friend Tom, so we are off at last." "Yes, my lord; but I have not heard yet whither." "No; and, like a wise and prudent fellow, have not desired to know too much.

You are a model of patience, Tom--an excellent companion to have.

But the time has come when I can safely enlighten you as far as you need be enlightened.

I shall not tell you all I know; for, in truth, you would not understand it." "That may very well be," answered Tom humbly.
"But I will tell you this much, Tom; we are bound upon an errand of peril.

We have some difficult journeyings to make, and there will be certain persons lying in wait for messengers from Marlborough; and we may be sore beset to avoid them.