His fighting blood was up at last, and still he smiled. Bart Hodge was the only one who realized how dangerous Merriwell really was when he smiled in that manner.
“It will disgrace the club!” exclaimed Fuller.
“No need for it to be generally known if Mr. Manton will step down here a short distance behind the trees.”
“I’ll step anywhere you say,” panted the pugilist; “but don’t you try to run away!”
“You don’t know him!” muttered Hodge, whose eyes were gleaming. “You’ll be better acquainted with him in a short time.”
Fuller was regretful, but he finally agreed to let Merry and Manton settle the trouble if they would retire to the spot designated by Frank.
They did so, the witnesses accompanying them. Frost urged Manton on.
“Smash his face!” hissed he. “Spoil his beauty! You’ve got to do it!”
“Leave it to me!” growled the pugilist. “If I don’t beat him up I’ll commit suicide!”