There, then, they sat contemplating one another, each, as it were, in the exercise of some particular power, which, in this case, appeared to depend altogether on the expressions of the eye.

The gaze was long and combative in its character, and constituted a trial of that moral strength which each, in the peculiar constitution of his being, seemed to possess.

After some time, however, Woodward's glance seemed to lose its concentrative power, and gradually to become vague and blank.

In a little time he felt himself rapidly losing ground, and could hardly avoid thinking that the eyes of his opponent were looking into his very soul: his eyelids quivered, his eyes assumed a dull and listless appearance, and ultimately closed for some moments--he was vanquished, and he felt it.
"What is the matter with you ?" said his companion at length, "and why did you look at me with such a singular gaze?
I hope you do not feel resentment at what I said.

I hesitated to believe you only because I thought you might be mistaken.".
"I entertain no resentment against you," replied Woodward; "but I must confess I feel astonished.