`` Nay , none know the word but the three chiefs , '' returned Dick ; `` but here is your great good fortune , that , on this very evening , I should be the bearer of a spell to open it . It is a thing not trusted twice a year beyond the captain 's wallet . '' `` A spell ! '' said Arblaster , half awakening , and squinting upon Dick with one eye . `` Aroint thee ! no spells ! I be a good Christian . Ask my man Tom , else . '' `` Nay , but this is white magic , '' said Dick . `` It doth naught with the devil ; only the powers of numbers , herbs , and planets . '' `` Ay , ay , '' said Pirret ; '' 't is but white magic , gossip . There is no sin therein , I do assure you . But proceed , good youth . This spell -- in what should it consist ? '' `` Nay , that I will incontinently show you , '' answered Dick . `` Have ye there the ring ye took from my finger ? Good ! Now hold it forth before you by the extreme finger-ends , at the arm 's - length , and over against the shining of these embers . 'T is so exactly . Thus , then , is the spell . ''
With a haggard glance , XXXXX saw the coast was clear between him and the door .
't Arblaster Ay Christian Dick Pirret Tom embers finger-ends year