"But wait a while! Caesar Basterga does not forget, and his turn will come! Where is my cap ?" He had let it fall on the floor, and he turned to pick it up, stooping slowly and with difficulty as stout men do.

As he raised himself, his head still low, he butted it suddenly and with an activity for which no one would have given him credit full into Claude's chest.

The unlucky young man, who had lowered his weapon the instant before, fell back with a "sough" against the wall, and leant there, pale and breathless.

Anne uttered one scream, then the scholar's huge arm enfolded her neck and drew her backwards against his breast.
"Up! up! Messer Blondel!" he cried.

"Now is your chance! Up and surprise her!" And with his disengaged hand he gripped Claude, for further safety, by the collar.