"I feel it give a little," said he; "but, though I am exceptionally strong in the fingers, it would take me all my time to break it.

An ordinary man could not do it.

Now, what do you think would happen if I did break it, Mr.Holder?
There would be a noise like a pistol shot.

Do you tell me that all this happened within a few yards of your bed and that you heard nothing of it ?" "I do not know what to think.

It is all dark to me." "But perhaps it may grow lighter as we go.