With a hoarse shout of victorious fury, Marline thrust straight at Frank's breast!
Merriwell succeeded in foiling the thrust with the part of his weapon that remained in his hand, but Marline's sword passed through Frank's shirt sleeve at the shoulder.
The seconds and the surgeon had started forward to interfere, but, with a gasping curse, Marline flung his sword on the ground and covered his eyes with his hands, his whole body quivering.
Diamond caught up the weapon the Southerner had flung down, muttering:
"There's no telling what he may try to do next. I'll keep this out of his reach."
But Marline had no thought of resuming the duel. When he lowered his hand from his face, his shame was betrayed.
"Mr. Merriwell," he said, his voice quivering, "I wish to apologize to you."
All were astonished.
"For what?" asked Frank, calmly.
"You have shown yourself more honorable than I," said Marline, although every word cut him like the stroke of a knife. "Twice you disarmed me and took no advantage of it. But when my turn came, my hatred for you was so great I lost my head. I tried to kill you. I offer a humble apology, and say what I never expected to say to any living being—you have shown yourself more honorable than I."