My first is one or many men

Puzzle

My first is one, or many men;
My second comes apace;
My whole's a pledge to be redeemed
Within a certain space.

Hint

Answer

References

• Loyd, Sam [1914]. in Loyd, Sam, Jr.: Sam Loyd's Cyclopedia of 5000 Puzzles Tricks and Conundrums (in English). New York: Lamb Publishing company, page 52.