It was a wicked blow, and its force was great enough to hurl the whole body back.

The man whirled away under it, and he went toppling down, with his arms thrown up wildly.

As he fell, he pitched still further back, in his effort to save himself, and his head struck the wainscoting as he reached the floor.

Blood gushed from his cut cheek.
It was a moment or two before he clambered slowly to his feet.
"Shall I hit you just once more ?" was Harlson's query.
The man did not answer.

The woman stood looking on curiously, but saying nothing.