Hodge went past like a leaping panther, but the other man had darted behind a tree and melted away amid the underbrush in a most surprising manner, and while Bart slashed about in search of the fellow who had disappeared, Merriwell fought the other, who was a gigantic man of remarkable strength.
The child had crept away a short distance, where it crouched on the ground, watching the battle in fascination and fear.
“Dern yer!” growled the ruffian. “Whatever do ye mean by botherin’ two peaceable gents in this yar way?”
“We mean business,” answered Frank.
“Waal, danged ef I don’t cut yer inter ribbons!” declared the giant, as he made a movement and wrenched forth a knife.
Frank moved swiftly, and was barely in time to fasten his fingers on the wrist of the murderous wretch.
“No, you don’t!” he exclaimed. “I object to anything of the sort!”
“Object and be dished!” came from the other. “Why, do you think yer kin hold that yar hand? Ye’re nothin’ but a kid!”
Then the ruffian made a furious, wrenching twist to get his hand free, but, to his surprise, the grip of the beardless youth was like steel, and he failed utterly in his attempt.
This was the fellow’s first surprise; others followed swiftly.