"Did he know you?"
"May I ask what business that is of yours?"
"Shut up, you little street tramp, you!" retorted Ferris. "Do you know what I've a good mind to do?"
"I must admit I do not."
"Give you a mighty good thrashing."
"Two can play at that game," replied Hal, with a nervous little laugh.
"What, do you mean to say you can stand up against me?" demanded Ferris. "Maybe you don't know I am an athlete."
"And perhaps you are not aware that I am perfectly able to take care of myself," returned Hal.
"Take that!" cried Ferris.
He hauled off and aimed a wicked blow at the youth's nose. Had it struck Hal it would have injured him considerably.