They then gave hostages and oaths to leave the country to Alfred, who paid them off.

We would not wish to give them more hostages than they presently control.

He didn't want to give the two gang members potential hostages.

Francis Bacon rightly said that people with children have given hostages to fortune.

But one gives it hostages, and lays one's grief upon the gods.

While there is any danger, I cannot bond with anyone to become someone's weapon- or to give hostages to fortune.

When her lawyer asked if she knew anyone in the government who might help, she gave further hostages to fortune.

He gave hostages for his good behaviour and promised to pay tribute.

He was obliged to give hostages, probably including his son Hywel.

They may then have been required to give hostages as a guarantee of future good behaviour.