“I do not believe you can budge it.”
“You shall see.”
Then the man bent his broad back, obtained a hold on the stone with his hands, and, to the astonishment of Hodge, lifted it fully two feet from the ground with no great apparent effort.
“What do you think now?” he cried triumphantly, as he let it drop.
“I think it is remarkable!” exclaimed Hodge, looking at the man in wondering admiration.
“I knew you would,” said the stranger, with a show of satisfaction. “Can you keep a secret?”
“I believe so.”
“Then I will tell you something.”
“Go on.”
“I am the strongest man in the world!”