This had the result that Mark desired, for a glance back showed him that Ralph was coming on fast, and in a few minutes he had overtaken him, just as he sprang off his pony and faced round.
“Oh, it is you,” said Mark haughtily.
“Yes,” said Ralph, meeting his eyes boldly.
“I thought it was. Well, you are not lame now?”
“No.”
“And I see you have a sword.”
“Yes, I have my sword.”
“Then as we are equal now, and if you are not afraid, we may as well have a little conversation with them.”
“Fight?” said Ralph quietly. “Why?”
“Ha-ha!” laughed Mark, with his face flushing. “Why? Because we are gentlemen, I suppose; because we have been taught to use our swords; at least I have; and it’s the worse for you if you have not.”