Sometimes you have to pound things into some people, you understand." "I'd advise you to try nothing of the sort, Nick," said Hugh, steadily.
At that the other laughed aloud.
"Why, you don't mean to tell me you'd stick in your little oar, Hugh, and try to teach me a few tricks, do you?
I could put you on your back with one hand behind me.

Fellers that are tied to their mother's apron strings ain't apt to know a heap about how to take care of themselves in a stand-up fight.

Mebbe now you're meaning all of you to pick on me?
Well, I've got a few nervy pals hangin' around who'd like nothing better than to have you try that game." Owen had not attempted to escape while Nick's attention was thus taken up with the newcomers, though possibly he might have been forgiven had he done so, considering all the conditions.

But evidently Owen had plenty of nerve, even though he might be lacking in brawn equal to the bully's larger figure.
Nick now turned again upon the other.

His gestures became even more offensive, as though despite Hugh's grave warning, he meant to attack Owen, come what might, and give him the drubbing which according to his, Nick's light, was long overdue.
Suddenly, without the least warning, his fist shot out.