"I have the means to make myself deadly, but that by itself, you understand, is absolutely nothing in the way of protection.

What is effective is the belief those people have in my will to use the means.

That's their impression.

It is absolute.
Therefore I am deadly." "There are individuals of character amongst that lot too," muttered Ossipon ominously.
"Possibly.

But it is a matter of degree obviously, since, for instance, I am not impressed by them.