You understand me ?" "I think so," I replied, meeting her steady look with one equally composed.

Part of my strength--and I think I have some strength--lies in the fact that I am quietest when most deeply roused.

"I am not to talk whatever the outcome." "Not even to me," she emphasized.
Stirred still further and therefore outwardly even more calm than before, I stopped her as she was moving on and ventured a single query.
"This position--involving secrecy--is it one you would advise me to take, even if I did not stand in need of it so badly ?" "Yes.

The difficulties will not be great to a discreet person.

It is a first-class opportunity for a young woman as experienced as yourself." "Thank you," was my abrupt but grateful rejoinder; and, obeying her silent gesture, I opened the door of the sitting-room and passed in.