"There ain't any fellow in Westville can stop me from going where I please!" howled the squire's son, and once more he started to walk on.
With a quick movement, Ralph stepped in front of the aristocratic bully.
"Not another step, until you pay the toll!" he exclaimed, his eyes flashing their determination.
"Out of my way, you upstart!" roared Percy.
And, raising his fist, he aimed a heavy blow at Ralph's face.
The young bridge tender caught the blow on the arm, and the next moment had Percy jammed up against the iron railing to one side.
"Now, you either pay your way or go back just as quick as you can!" he said, firmly. "I want no more trouble with you."
"Let go of me!"
"Not until you promise to do one thing or the other."
"I'm not going to pay!" fumed Percy.