We prepared for the combat by covering our bodies with grease; and I had my long hair securely tied up into a kind of "chignon" at the back of my head.

My opponent was a far bigger man than myself, but I felt pretty confident in my ability as a trick wrestler, and did not fear meeting him.

What I did fear, however, was that he would dispute the findings of the umpires if they were in my favour, in which case there might be trouble.

I had a shrewd suspicion that the chief was something of a coward at heart.

He seemed nervous and anxious, and I saw him talking eagerly with his principal supporter.