None the less, he
nerved himself to step resolutely out, and as he did so the
pressure melted away. There was a low murmur of applause.
"He is of stout heart," said the voice. "Can you bear pain?"
"As well as another," he answered.
"Test him!"
It was all he could do to keep himself from screaming out, for an
agonizing pain shot through his forearm. He nearly fainted at
the sudden shock of it; but he bit his lip and clenched his hands
to hide his agony.
"I can take more than that," said he.
This time there was loud applause. A finer first appearance had
never been made in the lodge. Hands clapped him on the back, and
the hood was plucked from his head. He stood blinking and
smiling amid the congratulations of the brothers.
"One last word, Brother McMurdo," said McGinty. "You have
already sworn the oath of secrecy and fidelity, and you are aware
that the punishment for any breach of it is instant and
inevitable death?"
"I am," said McMurdo.
"And you accept the rule of the Bodymaster for the time being
under all circumstances?"
"I do."
"Then in the name of Lodge 341, Vermissa, I welcome you to its
privileges and debates.
Pages:
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201