A moment later the major thrust the carved stock into my hand, and I looked at it curiously.
"Gentlemen," he said clearly, stepping to one side, "we will make this as simple as possible.

You will take positions here, back to back." The sound of his voice, the sharp ring of authority in it, awoke me to the reality as though I had received an electric shock.

I felt the fierce beat of my heart, and then every muscle and nerve became steel.
Without a tremor, my mind clear and alert, I advanced to the point designated, and stood erect, facing the south; an instant, and Le Gaire's shoulders were touching mine.
"Now listen closely," said Hardy, his voice sounding strangely far off, yet each word distinct.

"I am to give the first word, and Bell the second.

When I say 'forward' you will take ten paces--go slowly--and halt.