And hearing from more than one a likely report of you, and knowing you myself that you are the sort of fellow I need--honest, strong in the arm, and quick of wit--I resolved to offer you the service.

And as for wage, if you will come, marry I value a good servant so well that there shall be no question betwixt us on that score.

Here is a purse for thy first month's service; and if you be the man I take you for, you shall have the like each month you serve me." "I am mightily beholden to you," said I, gaping at the money and smelling villainy in it all.

"And by your leave, Sir Captain, what may be your service ?" "Easy enough for a lad of thy mettle.

Indeed, whether you take my service or no, you shall keep that purse, provided you tell me where a certain maiden, ward to the Lady Cantire and daughter to the O'Neill, is now ?" Now I guessed whose messenger I talked with, and what his business might be with me.
It surprised me that he came to the point so quickly.