Tomaso would have chosen pistols, for he was an excellent shot, and it gave him the superiority; whereas, although not altogether unskilled in fence, Toro's superior weight and size gave him a great advantage with the sword.
However, there was nothing for it now but to fight.
The combatants stripped to the waist, and each received his weapon from his second.
They were long, heavy swords, cut and thrust, like the heavy cavalry carry, and with these there could be but one result.
Death!
There were no half measures with these weapons.
"Now, then," exclaimed the Italian, impatiently, "why this dallying? On guard."
"I am ready," cried Tomaso, gripping his sword firmly.
The swords met with a clash which sent forth a shower of sparks, and both men recoiled with the force of the shock.
Recovering themselves quickly, however, they went to work in real savage style, and chopped away at each other with vicious earnestness.