On their way to the spot Frank stripped off his coat and vest and removed his collar and necktie, giving these articles to Bart.
Fuller tried to apologize to Merry, but Frank checked him.
“You’re not in the least to blame,” he said. “You can’t be responsible for the behavior of every member of the club.”
“Manton will be expelled.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t do that! Don’t do it on my account. I can look out for myself.”
“He’s a great fighter. He was the champion boxer at Yale in his day.”
“Don’t worry, Fuller. I’ll try to take care of myself.”
The moment they reached the spot chosen Manton advanced on Merry. There were no preliminaries and no delay. They were at it in a hurry, crouching, sparring, circling, seeking an opening. No rules had been mentioned. It was a fight to the finish in such a manner as they chose.
Manton feinted with his right and tried for Frank’s jaw with his left.