Use "make firm" in a sentence

1. As you all know, our air forces have been able up to now to slow down and hurt badly from the air the German counter-attack forces, which still have to make firm contact with our left flank

2. "On the contrary, mademoiselle," said the young man, in a voice which he tried to make firm and brave, but which still trembled, "anything that concerns you interests me to an extent which perhaps you will one day understand