In the course of his wanderings Tony had attracted the attention of a pugilist.
I’ll tell you what, Rudolph,” said the pugilist, “you can make something of that boy?”
“How?” asked the tramp.
I’ll teach him to box, and you can get an engagement for him in a circus.”
“Do it if you like,” said the tramp.
So Tony received a gratuitous course of lessons in boxing, which were at last interrupted by a little difficulty between his teacher and the officers of the law, resulting in the temporary confinement of the former. The lessons were never resumed, but they had gone so far that Tony was a skillful boxer for a boy.
He, too, had measured Sam and felt quite sure of being able to conquer him, and that with ease. He did not, however, mention the grounds of his confidence to James, when the latter expressed some apprehension that he would find Sam too much for him.
“Don’t be alarmed, James,” said Tony quietly.
He’s bigger than you,” said James doubtfully.
I know that, but he’s clumsy.”