One of the three won the throw, time after time, and crowed so loud at each success, that the others (as was only natural), turned first surly, then angry.

But the winner heeded not their wrath, but continued to cackle insultingly, until their patience being all spent, they knocked over the table, and fell to blows.

Now, surely, thought I, is the time for us.

But my comrade still lay low, and signed to me to do the same.

For we were unarmed, and had we been too soon, all had been spoiled.
The fight that followed was short and sharp.