A silent chap with fighting blood in his veins is generally regarded as formidable and dangerous when aroused, but once in a while it happens that a talkative chap is just as dangerous.
Those who saw and heard Brad for the first time were almost certain to fancy he would show the white feather at the last moment. Those who had seen him often and knew him well never doubted that he would unflinchingly enter a den of roaring lions if he felt it his duty to do so.
The natural chivalry of Buckhart’s nature had been stirred by the appearance of the girl and by her appeal for protection, and therefore he was ready to lay down his life in defense of her right there on the plateau of the Acropolis.
It was but natural that Professor Gunn should be much alarmed over the situation, for he felt that, to a large extent, the safety of the boys was in his hands and he was responsible for them.
Therefore the old man now proposed that they should all go to a magistrate or some official who had proper authority and that the case should be submitted to him.
To his astonishment this seemed to infuriate both the Greeks. They cursed him and the boys for interfering and sneered at the proposal of submitting the matter to any official. One more demand they made for possession of the girl, and it was plain they meant to take her by force if refused.
They were promptly refused by both boys, who placed themselves shoulder to shoulder in front of the shrinking maiden.
With a snarl of rage, the younger Greek drew a knife.
“Oh, heavens!” moaned Professor Gunn. “There will be bloodshed!”
Then, to his greater horror, he saw Dick and Brad attack the men, declining to wait to be attacked themselves.