"But now, no more converse.

If you are quite ready, drink this." He held out to me a small tumbler filled with the sparkling volatile liquid he had poured from the flask.

For one moment my courage almost forsook me, and an icy shiver ran through my veins.

Then I bethought myself of all my boasted bravery; was it possible that I should fail now at this critical moment?
I allowed myself no more time for reflection, but took the glass from his hand and drained its contents to the last drop.

It was tasteless, but sparkling and warm on the tongue.