"Do you know that you try me?" he said, smiling. "I am a patient sort of man, but my pulse is quickening."
"Whatever happens, you will befriend me, Mr. Moore? You will give me the benefit of your self-possession, and not leave me at the mercy of agitated cowards?"
"I make no promise now. Tell me the tale, and then exact what pledge you will."

"I am a patient man," he said, smiling, "but my pulse is quickening. Tell me the tale."
