The knot is a peculiar one; an Indian taught it to me.

If you set to work at once, you will get it untied before nightfall.

That you may not think it the Gordian knot and treat it as such, I have put your sword where you can get it only when you have worked for it.

Your familiar, my lord, may prove of use to us; therefore we will take him with us to the haunted wood.

I have the honor to wish your lordship a very good day." I bowed low, swung myself into my saddle, and turned my back upon his glaring eyes and bared teeth.