"Ten thousan' tarantulas!" he howled. "Let me git my paws on him!"
He made a rush for Frank, who seemed to stand still to meet him, but stepped aside just as the ruffian tried to fold him in his arms.
Then the big wretch was somehow caught about the body, lifted into the air, and sent crashing to the ground, striking on his head and shoulders. The young athlete from Yale handled Brazos Tom with such ease that every witness was astounded.
The big fellow lay where he fell, stunned and finished.
Gonchita looked at Frank with a light of the most intense admiration in her dark eyes.
"How you do eet so easee?" she asked.
"That's nothing, with a bungler like him to meet," said Merry quietly.
The ruffians said nothing, but exchanged meaning glances. They had been foiled for the time being by the girl and by the cleverness of their captive.