"I give you to-day the most indubitable proof that I consider you one of ourselves. Give me your hand."
Eric did so, and shuddered as he touched the iron ring on the man's thumb.
Sonnenkamp continued:—
"I recognize and honor your reserve."
Eric's eyes wandered uneasily. What did all this mean?
After several hasty puffs at his cigar, Sonnenkamp continued:—
"You have never, in any way, alluded to what has been going on among us, though you cannot have failed to be aware of it."
Eric still trembled. Sonnenkamp kept making such unusual pauses.
At last, bringing the words out with an effort, he said:—
"You know that I am about to receive a title?"