"There is no time," Eliza said, "and your advice is of little value, as ‘Gertrude’ does not expect to participate in any sword-fights ." And Eliza drew breath as if to expound upon this theme at greater length. But Daniel’s withered hand suddenly lay gentle on her arm. She faltered. "Gertrude" and Johann had locked their eyes together across the room. Eliza could have detonated a barrel of gunpowder and they would not have heard it.