He was not at all sure of his ground.

He did not know what Etta's position was in regard to Steinmetz.

Behind the defiant woman there lurked the broad shadow of the man who never defied; who knew many things, but was ignorant of fear.
Unlike Karl Steinmetz, De Chauxville was not a bold player.

He liked to be sure of his trick before he threw down his trump card.

His method was not above suspicion: he liked to know what cards his adversary held, and one may be sure that he was not above peeping.
"Karl Steinmetz is no friend of yours," he said.
Etta did not answer.