about ten to one
His glance was a mingling of sympathy and apprehension . He knew the great dangers of the quest , but he liked John Scott and he could understand . `` John , '' he said , calling him by his first name , `` I would not send anybody upon such an errand as yours . You recognize the fact that the chances are about ten to one you 'll find a bullet at the end of your search . '' `` I think I 'll get through . '' `` It 's a good thing to hope . I think I can procure this commission for you from General Vaugirard .