It was what he must be.

It was what he was.

The idea was a clue and, instead of darkening the prospect, projected a certain clearness.

Strether made out in this quick ray that a Pagan was perhaps, at the pass they had come to, the thing most wanted at Woollett.

They'd be able to do with one--a good one; he'd find an opening--yes; and Strether's imagination even now prefigured and accompanied the first appearance there of the rousing personage.