In giving ground Prescott stepped backward, his feet becoming entangled with a vine running along the ground.
Down went Dick, just in time to save himself from a savage blow in the face.
"Stand up to the fight, like a man!" roared Dodge, for he felt that he was winning.
Dick drew himself to his knees. Ere he could gain his feet Bert landed a smashing blow on his left cheek. Down went Dick again.
"Stop that sort of thing, Dodge!" flared Dave Darrin. "Either man who goes down must have safety until he's on his feet again."
"Shut up!" flared Bert, but this time he waited, afraid to try to hit his opponent until Dick was on his feet.
"Can't Dodge run his own fight, hang you?" Bayliss demanded.
This was the first word he had had the courage to utter.
Quick as a flash Dave wheeled, running toward Dodge's companion.
"This isn't wholly Dodge's fight, Bayliss," Darry cried, his anger at a white heat. "Prescott has some rights in the game, and you know it, too."
"You're too fresh!" snapped Bayliss.