Typical. The Doctor could feel him, just lurking, listening, waiting... and he knew he was only trying to torment him, but it was working. He could hardly stand it, and a part of him wanted to just tell him to leave him alone... but this problem was more important than his stupid pride. And if the Master didn't do it, then at least he'd tried.
If I don't die, it seems likely I'll be turned into a vampire. If that happens... you have to promise to stake me. Both hearts.
He squeezed his eyes tighter shut; he'd just given the Master permission to kill him, so really it was a win-win situation.