“What! Freiderich von Bernstrum not a fighter!” exclaimed the big German in surprise.
“We have only your word for it,” said Hal quietly.
Von Bernstrum paced up and down excitedly. He stopped suddenly.
“Let me bring swords!” he exclaimed, “and you shall see whether I can fight!”
He made as if to leave the room.
“Not so fast!” exclaimed Hal. “The clash of steel would bring the whole fortress down on us. But I shall try you out.”
“How?” exclaimed the German eagerly.
“Alexis!” called Hal.
The big Cossack approached.
“Here,” said Hal to the German, pointing to Alexis, “is a foeman worthy of your steel. You shall try with him.”