His opponent sprang upon him.

Paolo caught the man's right wrist as he struck at him with his knife, and drew his own from his girdle.

His assailant threw his other arm round him, and, grappling, they fell on to the ground.

Hector could do nothing to assist him, for the other two men were trying to circle round him, keeping beyond the swing of his axe but watching for an opportunity to spring upon him.
Keeping his back against the wall he made feints against them.

Presently one of the men passed between him and the two antagonists struggling on the ground.