The seconds became alarmed and seemed about to interfere, for they realized that there was something more than acting about this wonderful duel.
“Keep back!” ordered Frank. “It will be all right.”
“I’ll do it yet!” vowed Dunton, inwardly.
Now Merriwell was toying with the stage villain, a true villain at heart, and, realizing what a poor showing he was making, Dunton set his teeth and made a last bold dash for the life of his foe.
Right there Merriwell caught Dunton’s blade on his, let it slip past till the hilts met, and then tore the weapon from the fellow’s hand, sending it spinning into the air.
Dunton fell back, with a cry of amazement and horror.
Down came the blade, and Merry caught it gracefully, instantly offering it, hilt first, to his disarmed foe.
Dunton hesitated, then, like a flash, he snatched the weapon and tried to run Frank through!
The audience gasped.
But Merriwell was not caught. Back he went with a spring, and again his sword clanged against that of his enemy.