It's a long story; and I have much to do, but I swear to you, Claiborne, that my hands are clean; that the game I am playing is no affair of my own, but a big thing that I have pledged myself to carry through.

I want you to ride down there in the valley and keep Marhof quiet for a few hours; tell him I know more of what's going on in Vienna than he does, and that if he will only sit in a rocking-chair and tell you fairy stories till morning, we can all be happy.

Is it a bargain--or--must I still hang your head down the well till I get through ?" "Marhof may go to the devil! He's a lot more mysterious than even you, Armitage.

These fellows that brought me up here to kill me in the belief that I was you can not be friends of Marhof's cause." "They are not; I assure you they are not! They are blackguards of the blackest dye." "I believe you, Armitage." "Thank you.

Now your horse is at the door--run along like a good fellow." Armitage dived into his room, caught up a cartridge belt and reappeared buckling it on.
"Oscar!" he yelled, "bring in that coffee--with cups for two." He kicked off his boots and drew on light shoes and leggings.
"Light marching orders for the rough places.