There was no doubt he thought himself sincere.

At that moment he almost believed he loved Trina conscientiously, that he was sacrificing himself for the sake of his friend.

The two stood up and faced each other, gripping hands.

It was a great moment; even McTeague felt the drama of it.

What a fine thing was this friendship between men! the dentist treats his friend for an ulcerated tooth and refuses payment; the friend reciprocates by giving up his girl.