In this way they all traversed the short distance to Clerkenwell Green, either party echoing the other's objurgations along the thinly-peopled streets.

At length arrived the suitable moment.

Near St.James's Church Jack Bartley made a stand, and defied his enemy to come on.

Bob responded with furious eagerness; amid a press of delighted spectators, swelled by people just turned out of the public-houses, the two lads fought like wild animals.

Nor were they the only combatants.