Frank was not duped, although he accepted the hand extended. He was prepared when Hashi instantly tried to obtain the arm lock which would have rendered him helpless.
Merry had a grip of steel, and he exerted it suddenly, crushing the fingers of the Jap.
Hashi was baffled again. Even though it seemed that the American would take his hand off, the little man did not wholly lose his persistent smile.
When he had baffled his antagonist, Frank suddenly changed his method and caught the fellow in a wrestling grip. Together they went to the mat, where Merry obtained a half-Nelson hold.
As Hashi felt his head bent under him and realized he must quickly go over upon his back, he flung his feet straight up into the air, and, using his head for a pivot, attempted to spin out of the hold like a top.
Merry anticipated that.
With his free arm he caught the Jap about the waist and checked the spinning. Then he promptly turned Hashi over flat and fair upon his back.
“Great—great work!” cried the spectators.
Merriwell was up, cool and unruffled.