Do your worst, and may God forgive you for your cruelty.' 'Dare not to speak that holy Name, apostate and worshipper of idols, eater of human flesh.

Let Sarceda be summoned.' A messenger went out, and for a while there was silence.

I caught Marina's glance and saw pity in her gentle eyes.

But she could not help me here, for Cortes was mad because no gold had been found, and the clamour of the soldiers for reward had worn him out and brought him to this shameful remedy, he who was not cruel by nature.

Still she strove to plead for me with him, whispering earnestly in his ear.