Though Tom hated to do it, there was no alternative but to choke the powerful bully.

Bellas soon let go, dazed and gasping.

Ere the big fellow came to his senses sufficiently to know what he was about, Reade had hoisted Bellas to one shoulder.
Down by the checker's hut the crowd of curious workmen gasped as they saw Tom Reade jogging along with this great load over one shoulder.
Reaching the line, Tom gave another heave.

Bellas rolled on the ground.
He was conscious and could have gotten up, but he chose to lay where he had fallen and think matters over.
"Don't think I'm peevish, men," Tom called pleasantly.

"I wouldn't have done that if Bellas hadn't attacked me.