human
Not a sound, mind, or I'll twist your throat as I would a meadow-lark's. Why were you following me?
gpt
Let me speak, then--you hurt me.
human
Go on.
gpt
You are a Stockader, and there is a young man with you, fair-haired and with dark eyes--Constans by name? Do you know him?
human
Well, and if I do?
gpt
Will you tell me where and how I can see him? Just a word, or, if not, then to send him a message.
human
It is impossible, said Piers Minor, stolidly.
gpt
This is a time of war, and only for life and death----
human
It is a question of that,
gpt
Speak out, can't you? What is it that he would care to know?
human
Tell him, then, that last night Esmay disappeared, and yet still remains in Arcadia House. He will understand, for he knows Quinton Edge.
gpt
A woman! ejaculated Piers Minor, in supreme disdain.
human
Always that.
gpt
Yes, always that,
human
You are a bold one, he said, half admiringly.
gpt
Well, I will tell him; I promise you that. And now what am I to do with you?
human
We may part as we have met, with no one the wiser.
gpt
I am not so sure of that, said the other, suspiciously.
human
You are a Doomsman, and you know me to be a Stockader--a spy, if you like. If it were for myself alone I might trust you, but so much may hang----
gpt
The only sure way lies at my knife-point.
human
Good! said Piers Minor, heartily.
gpt
Although, indeed, I could never have done it. Yet I must bind and gag you,
human
No; I will not have you touch me.