Rupert Holliday was as active as a cat, and was ever on the move, constantly shifting his ground, advancing and retreating with astonishing lightness and activity.

At first he was too eager, and his instructor touched him twice over his guard.
Then, rendered cautious, he fought more carefully, although with no less quickness than before; and for some minutes there was no advantage on either side, the master's longer reach and calm steady play baffling every effort of his assailant.
At last, with a quick turn of the wrist, he sent Rupert's foil flying across the room.

Rupert gave an exclamation of disgust, followed by a merry laugh.
"You always have me so, Monsieur Dessin.

Do what I will, sooner or later comes that twist, which I cannot stop." "You must learn how, sir.

Your sword is so; as you lunge I guard, and run my foil along yours, so as to get power near my hilt.