"Ready, sir," added Prescott.

"This fight," announced the referee, "is to be to a finish.

The rounds will last two minutes each, with a minute's rest between.

Queensbury rules will be followed as far as they can be made to apply.

This being a bare-knuckle fight for a matter of principle, the combatants will not shake hands." There was an impressive pause, the referee turning to look at each fighter in turn.
Spurlock stood at ease, his arms folded over his chest, a grin on his face.
Plebe Prescott looked less confident.