A top marksman does not live under the tainted shadow of prevarication but beneath the assuring brightness of calm submission. Liam’s deep-set eyes and creased brow tell us he was home with his choice. Through those striking windows to the soul, he lets us glimpse the understanding that his mind had roamed many places. And had come to accept whatever consequences followed his choice.

When the one they call the sweet Psalmist of Israel found himself in a certain place one day where the only question that bothered him was Who shall abide in God’s tabernacle and dwell in his holy hill, he received an answer that helped shaped part of the creed of the top marksman. Among other things, the individual must be someone who swears to his own hurt, and changes not. Because he has accepted to live with the consequences of his choices.

In his books, thorns follow roses like bees follow nectar. The one is not without the other. The mission is not without the markers.