The crowd watched the movements of the contestants with the greatest interest.
Dan Carver was on hand, and, after a moment, he offered to bet even money that the Irish boy would take the first fall. He was able to get up a small amount, and then, hands in pockets, he calmly regarded the contest.
Barney was tempted once or twice to try the trip, but was not quite satisfied with his opportunity. If he tried and failed, the Indian might throw him heavily by sharply jerking him backward.
Twice Whirling Bear jerked Barney forward to get him off his guard and then tried the inside click, but failed to throw the sturdy Irish youth.
This seemed to anger the redskin, for it was plain he had looked on the white boys with no small contempt, and had anticipated securing an easy victory.
Furiously he went at Barney, and this gave the white boy the very opportunity he sought.
Quick as thought Barney turned his left side toward his opponent, got his hip partly beneath him, and then, with a rapid movement, crossed both his legs and lifted him from the ground.
Down went Whirling Bear, with Barney uppermost!
It was a pretty fall, and it awoke the admiration of the spectators so that they cheered the Irish lad heartily.
Barney sprang up, but the Indian arose almost as swiftly, and, before any one realized it, the struggle was on again.