"I have to be closer to the base than that," he explained, keeping his voice level with an effort.

"No," Nick answered in a voice he kept even with an effort.

But he kept his face straight with an effort.

"Very well," she said, keeping her voice cold and hard with an effort.

She almost stumbled once again, but kept her balance with an effort.

He kept his mind on his work with an effort.

I asked in real surprise, keeping my voice level with an effort.

She kept the smile on her face with an effort.

John Lucas took a deep breath, keeping control of himself with an effort.

Lee kept his voice low and steady, but only with a distinct effort.