He was sorry that he had turned the professional swordsman loose on Paul--it had been an unwise deed--and another act of violence in a single day was unworthy a man of his self-control.

No, a new and better plan came suddenly into his mind.
The two sat for a few moments gazing steadily at each other.

Alvarez was in the higher chair, and that gave him the physical advantage, but the look of the fearless youth was like the sharp sword that cuts scornfully through the maze and web of intrigue and trickery.

Alvarez was forced to turn his gaze aside, and his soul was full of tumult and anger because he had to yield.

The new plan that he had conceived in regard to this daring boy now seemed a peculiarly happy thought.