The stranger set the hammer, and the click of it going on full cock was plainly heard in the deep stillness.
"Clap the muzzle to your temple," ordered the president, and the suppliant obeyed without hesitating.
The silence deepened over all; the lamps seemed to fade, and the bystanders had no more breath than ghosts.
"Fire!" exclaimed the president.
The hammer fell and the flint emitted sparks in the pan; but it was only the powder there which took fire and no report followed its ephemeral flame.
An outcry of admiration burst from nearly every breast, and the president instinctively held out his hand toward the novice.
But two tests were not enough for some doubters who called out: "The dagger!"
"Since you require it, bring the dagger," said the presiding officer.
"It is useless," interrupted the stranger, shaking his head disdainfully.
"What do you mean?" asked several voices.