His henchmen ran forward to obey. An unexpected intervention stopped them. A one-armed little man who had drifted down the street in time to see part of the fracas pushed forward.

“I reckon not just yet. Goliath's had a turn. Now David gets his.”

“Lemme up,” sobbed Goliath furiously.

“Say you're whopped.” Jeff's fist emphasized the suggestion.

“Doggone you!”

This kind of one-sided warfare did not suit Jeff. He made as if to get up, but his backer stopped him.

“Hold on, son. You're not through yet. When you do a job do it thorough.” To the former champion he spoke. “Had plenty yet?”

“I—I'll have him skinned,” came from the tearful champion with a burst of profanity.

“That ain't the point. Have you had enough so you'll be good? Or do you need some more?”

“I'm goin' to tell Webber.”