Frank understood French even better than Darleton, and he was warned of what to expect.
Therefore when the Midwestern man sought an opening by “absence,” Merry declined to spring into the trap and expose himself. To many it seemed that the visitor lost a chance to score, but all were aware that he prevented Darleton from counting when the latter followed the “absence” by a flashing thrust. This thrust was turned, but Darleton had learned his lesson, and he recovered and was on guard so suddenly Frank found no advantageous opening.
Although his pupil had failed to score, L’Estrange showed some satisfaction, for he saw that Darleton was now awake to the danger of failing to cover himself instantly after an attack of any kind. At last the Omaha man knew he would have to exert himself to the utmost to defeat the stranger he had held in scornful contempt.
“Now he knows!” whispered L’Estrange to himself. “Now he will defeat Merriwell with ease!”
A moment later Darleton met and turned a fierce attack. Then he counted cleanly.
“Touch!” cried Frank promptly.
Harry Rattleton gave a gasp of dismay.
“I knew it!” he palpitated. “You see I’m right! He’ll win over Merry!”
“You’d better go die!” grated Hodge. “Frank has counted on him twice already!”
“Only once.”