Characterization. There are nine persons, each deftly made a living part of the assembly. They are, in approximate order of importance: Nicholas Colcord and his wife Evelyn. (They may be spoken of as untried gold); Professor Simec (the assayer); Jeffery Latham and Sybil his wife (tried gold); Arnold Bates (alloy); Jerry Dane and his wife Bessie (baser metal); Dr. Allison and his wife(?).
In spite of the rather generous number of characters, the part each has is so definite, serving by contrast and comparison to emphasize the main character—Nicholas Colcord—as to seem well-nigh indispensable. Moreover, apart from plot values and unity of effect, the number at the table works for verisimilitude. It is just the right size for a party in a conservative home, and it embraces the variety of types one finds in any similar group.
The dramatic method of characterizing is used to greatest extent: the men and women describe themselves in their remarks and in their behavior, particularly in the matter of measuring up to the test proposed. Go through the story with an eye to the speeches of each. Is any one person given many remarks? Who is the prominent spokesman? Why?
Analysis of Plot as Presented. The first significant step in the action lies in Nick’s remark (page 399) that he would give his life if in so doing he could end the war. (The foil to this remark is in Bates’s, “I’m with Nick.”)
The dramatic climax is sounded on page 403: “Suppose ... that I could make this absurd condition ... exist....” It is emphasized in the clear call on page 404: “I am going to ask you to make your offer good.”
The climax of action lies in Colcord’s words (page 408): “When do you want me?” (This speech is emphasized by contrast in Bates’s, “I withdraw right here.” It is strengthened by Evelyn’s acceptance of her husband’s sacrifice.)
The dénouement is left to the reader.
Details. Carefully study the circumstances preceding the initial impulse of the story action noting the details of preparation. For example, the “national colors merged with those of the allied nations” (page 391); “Rumor credited to him at least one of the deadliest chemical combinations” (page 392); “There’s a sort of grace given, I fancy” (page 396); “Sacrifice, Mrs. Colcord” (page 397) deepening the note of patriotism.
Whose angle of narration is used? Does the author anywhere depart from it, preferring his own angle? Does he anywhere seem to turn from the angle of the chosen one, putting her under the spot-light, instead? If you find these shifts, can you justify them by showing that the author makes a gain greater than the loss he sustains? If he makes no shift, how does he widen the narrow range afforded only one person?
By what preparation does Mr. Perry create the needed impression that the Colcords were fully aware of the sacrifice involved? (Note, especially, the preparation in Evelyn’s response to Latham’s comment, page 393, ... “you make me shiver!”)