One of them crowded his way in, but M.
Rubempre, in a very quiet way, delivered a blow on the end of the assailant's nose, which caused him to retreat, with the red fluid spurting from the injured member.
Taking his place, two others pushed forward, and aimed various blows at the two defenders of the position; but both of them were skilled in this sort of play, and warded off the strokes, delivering telling blows in the faces of the enemy.

Mr.Alwayn had partially closed the door; but he was not so cowardly as to shut out his two volunteer defenders.

As soon as they understood his object, they backed in at the door, dispersing the ruffians with well-directed blows, and the consul closed and locked the door.

Before any further mischief could be done, the police came and dispersed the rioters.

The consul fared better on this occasion than on several others, in one of which he was quite seriously injured.
As soon as order was restored, Mr.Alwayn conducted his defenders to his office, where he thanked them heartily for the service they had rendered him.