In a minute he heard the guard outside move and come to the door, then the key was inserted in the lock and the door opened.
"What on earth are you doing now ?" Philippo asked as he entered.
Francis was standing close to the door, so that as his guard entered he had his back to him, and before the question was finished he sprang upon him, throwing him headlong to the ground with the shock, and before the astonished man could speak he was kneeling upon him, with the point of the dagger at his throat.
"If you make a sound, or utter a cry," he exclaimed, "I will drive this dagger into your throat." Philippo could feel the point of the dagger against his skin, and remained perfectly quiet.
"I do not want to kill you, Philippo.

You have not been harsh to me, and I would spare your life if I could.

Hold your hands back above your head, and put your wrists together that I may fasten them.

Then I will let you get up." Philippo held up his hands as requested, and Francis bound them tightly together with a strip of twisted cloth.

He then allowed him to rise.
"Now, Philippo, I must gag you.