I did not move, but gripped my sword a little tighter, and stood ready for the worst.
"You will not yield, then?" he went on, after watching me intently for a moment.
"Try me and see," I answered curtly.
"Which means a threat of further violence," quoth he.
"Nay, a simple invitation," I replied.
"Ah, so you mock me, eh?"
He took a threatening step towards me.
"Have a care! I pray you have a care!" sang Harland from behind. "That sword of his is over-ready, as my poor comrade Adam Blunt proved to his cost."
"Perchance your comrade lacked my skill," returned the leader sneeringly. "Again I ask, young man, wilt yield?"
"And again I answer--try me and prove the matter," I replied.