"And what is the pass-word at the gate?"
"The sword of Levi," replied the Marquis; "but if you will receive my pledge of honour, I will go with you, escort you through every guard, and set you at full liberty with a passport."
"I might trust you, my lord, were your throat not already black with the grasp of my fingers;—as it is, beso los mamos a usted, as the Spaniard says. Yet you may grant me a passport;—are there writing materials in your apartment?"
"Surely; and blank passports ready to be signed. I will attend you there," said the Marquis, "instantly."
"It were too much honour for the like of me," said Dalgetty; "your lordship shall remain under charge of mine honest friend Ranald MacEagh; therefore, prithee let me drag you within reach of his chain.—Honest Ranald, you see how matters stand with us. I shall find the means, I doubt not, of setting you at freedom. Mean time do as you see me do; clap your hand thus
