There was little effort now to parry, for each fighter had become intent on bringing the other to earth.
Tom was soon panting as he fought, for his opponent was heavier, taller and altogether out of the youth's fistic class.
"If I can only reach his wind once, and topple him over!" thought Reade.
A blow aimed at his jaw he failed to block.

The impact sent the young engineer half staggering.

Another blow, and Tom dropped, knocked out.
At that very instant a street door near by opened noiselessly.
"I've got him," leered the bully, bending over the senseless form of Tom Reade.
"Bring him in!" ordered a voice behind the open doorway..