My opponent was strong, but I showed the girl--who had often taunted me for being a weakling because I obeyed my father in everything--that I need yield to no one.

I could not have borne to be vanquished before her and I flung the heathen to the ground and slew him with my axe.

I was only vaguely conscious of her presence, for during my severe struggle I could see nothing but my adversary.

But suddenly I heard a loud scream, and Miriam sank bleeding close before me.

While I was kneeling over his comrade one of the Blemmyes had crept up to me, and had flung his lance at me from a few paces off.