Each night the narrator envisions himself as becoming more dominant and disciplined as time slowly passes; he uses the words "boldly" and "courageously" when he describes his thorough planning and superior ability to wait until the exact time is right. "never before that night had i felt the extent of my own powers i could scarcely contain my feelings of triumph." he chuckles at his own brilliance, but this may have disturbed the old man’s sleep, for "he moved suddenly, … as if startled." at this, the narrator question 9 options: withdraws quietly remains immobile crouches low slowly continues