“There!” grunted the big fellow; “now we will proceed with the festivities. Let the band play on!”
The gamblers were astounded, for they were beginning to believe that the intruders all enjoyed fighting. Many of the rascals were bruised and bleeding, and they were beginning to weaken. Welch urged them on.
Bunker waded into it again, and, aided by Welch, he led the gang to another assault.
Frank singled out the man who had tried to stamp upon him. He forced his way toward Bunker, reached him, went at him again.
“You are the one I am looking after?” he cried. “I have a score to settle with you, and I am going to settle it!”
Then they went at it again, but now Merriwell showed himself the man’s superior. He hit Bunker repeatedly.
One of his blows brought about a remarkable result. The beard on Bunker’s face was knocked away and nearly came off.
“It’s false!” thought Frank.
At that moment the hanging lamp came down with a crash and went out, leaving the room in absolute darkness. Browning caught hold of Merriwell and Diamond and forced them out through the door, Hodge following instantly. All four rushed out to the open air, where Hans Dunnerwust joined them.
“It’s all over,” said Frank. “Let’s get away quickly. This row will bring a crowd to this spot, for it must have been heard.”