The blow must be struck whilst the iron is hot.

Thus and only thus can we be secure of the promised victory." Walter spoke quietly, yet with an undercurrent of deep enthusiasm that struck an answering chord in Cuthbert's heart.

All true and deep feeling moved him to sympathy.

His friend was talking in riddles to him; but he felt the earnestness and devotion of the man, and his sympathy was at once aroused.
"What hour?
what blow?
what deed ?" he asked wonderingly.

"I know not of what thou speakest." Walter drew his brows together and regarded him with an expression of intense and wondering scrutiny.