The visitors applauded.
"Ah, that's it, Thomas.

I was sure you could do it." Thomas relaxed a little, but not unduly.

He was not sure what was yet before him.
"Now we will get that 'sentries shriek.' See, Thomas, like this a little," and she read the words with fine expression.
"You must put more pith, more force, into those words, Thomas.

Speak out, man!" interjected the minister, who was wishing it was all over.
"Now, Thomas, I think this will be the last time.

You have done very well, but I feel sure you can do better." The minister's wife looked at Thomas as she said this, with so fascinating a smile that the frown on Thomas' face deepened into a hideous scowl, and he planted himself with a do-or-die expression in every angle of his solid frame.