Six several times he repeated this manoeuvre, and six times I stopped the stroke with the usual guard.

Baffled and furious, he tried it again, but--probably because of failing strength--less swiftly and adroitly.

My opportunity had come.

Quick as thought I ran under his guard, and, thrusting his right arm aside with my left hand, passed my sword through his body.
Then there were cries of bravo, for the popular feeling was on my side, and my seconds congratulated me warmly on my victory.

But I said little in reply, my attention being attracted by a young man who was kneeling beside Griscelli's body and, as it might seem, saying a silent prayer.