But instead, they saw the huge bully fly backward with terrific force and measure his length upon the track of the gymnasium.
He had been dealt a blow by Mark that half-stunned him, and amazed all, for the young sailor had never before shown what he could do with his fists, and his latent strength was never once suspected, unless it was by Scott Clemmons.
With a howl of rage Barney Breslin arose and rushed again upon Mark, who cried out:
“Back, Breslin, or you will regret it!”
A cry of defiance was Breslin’s only answer, and as the cadet struck up Mark’s guard, he was enabled to seize him in his long, powerful arms.
But only for a moment did he retain his hold, for he was raised bodily from his feet and dashed to the floor with a force that shook the building, and he lay limp and dazed from the fall.
Though astonished at Mark’s grand exhibition of strength, and glad as many were to see Barney Breslin punished, the cadets could not let the charge about the gold coin go by, and several called out:
“Prove that you know nothing about that coin, Merrill, or it will go hard with you.”
Mark was not in the least disturbed, as he faced those who demanded an inquiry into the cruel charge against him, and said in his quiet way, as he stood over the fallen Breslin:
“I have nothing to say for myself, but shall ask Mr. Dillingham to speak for me, after which Mr. Nazro can speak.”