The steel was flexible and true. Then he put
himself on guard, and physically he was a splendid figure of a man, tall,
compact, and obviously skilled with his weapon.
Long Jim Hart writhed again in his bonds. His heart yearned over Paul, his
young comrade.
"Stop it! stop it!" he cried. "It's murder, I say, fur a man used to them
weepins to set upon a boy."
"Shall we gag this fellow, Captain?" asked Braxton Wyatt, who enjoyed the
scene.
"No," replied Alvarez, scornfully. "Let him make as much noise as he
pleases."
Paul heard Long Jim's second protest, but now he did not answer. He was
intently watching Alvarez. He had read the look in the eye of the Spanish
leader, and he knew that Alvarez not only intended to punish him, but also
to make that process as mortifying as possible. But Paul was yet unafraid.
Although not as large and powerful as Henry, he was nevertheless a very
strong youth, used to the open air and exercise, and wonderfully flexible
and alert. He held the sword lightly but firmly with the point well
forward, ready for any movement by his antagonist.
Alvarez came a step nearer. His sword flashed, but Paul dextrously caught
the stroke upon his own weapon, and the blade glanced off, ringing.
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