No more words passed between us, but with a gesture he signed to me to move a little: and thus he adjusted our places till we were opposite one another, about two yards between us, and each presenting his side direct to the sun, so that its slanting rays troubled each of us equally, and that but little.
Then he said: "I will step back five paces, and do you do the like.

When we are at the distance, do you count slowly, 'One--two--three,' and at 'Three' we will fire." I did not like having to count, but it was necessary that one of us should; and he, when I pressed him, would not.

Therefore it was arranged as he said.

And I began to step back, but for an instant he stayed me.

He was calm now, and he spoke in quiet tones.
"Even now, if you will go!" said he.