“Don’t gamble!” exclaimed the officer. “How can you play cards if you don’t gamble. Come on now, we need two more players.”
“No,” said Hal, decidedly. “We shall have to ask you to excuse us.”
Even Alexis glanced at the lads in astonishment. Plainly this was beyond his comprehension, as gambling among the Cossacks is an ordinary pastime. But the other officer was not satisfied. He arose and came directly up to Hal.
“You must play with us,” he said.
“I am sorry,” replied Hal, “but we do not care to play.”
“Afraid, eh?” said the Russian.
“No,” replied Hal, “we are not afraid. We simply don’t care to play.”
“You are cowards,” said the Russian, and jostled Hal with his shoulder.
Hal stood his ground and refused to be pushed aside. The Russian reached out a thumb and finger and pulled Hal’s nose. Then he staggered back, for Hal had sent his fist crashing against his chest.
Quickly the Russian officer drew his sword and sprang upon the lad, who also drew his weapon and stood on guard. But now Alexis leaped to his feet, and his own sword struck up the weapons of the others.