The thing about to be done was to him a test of manhood.

It was a call upon the courage of the soul, a challenge of life, strength, and will.
As Mallow entered the grounds, the thought of Sheila Llyn crossed Dyck's mind, and the mental sight of her gladdened the eyes of his soul.

For one brief instant he stood lost in the mind's look; then he stepped forward, saluted, shook hands with Mallow, and doffed his coat and waistcoat.
As he did so, he was conscious of a curious coldness, even of dampness, in the hand which had shaken that of Mallow.

Mallow's hand had a clammy touch--clammy, but firm and sure.

There was no tremor in the long, thin fingers nor at the lips--the thin, ascetic lips, as of a secret-service man--but in his eyes was a dark fire of purpose.