We fenced with the energy of anger, and the sparks crackled from the friction of the grazing steel.

For several minutes it was a doubtful contest; but I grew cooler every instant, while a slight advantage I had gained irritated my adversary.

At length, by a lucky hit, I succeeded in planting the button of my foil upon his cheek.

A cheer greeted this, and I could hear the voice of Lincoln shouting out: "Wal done, cap'n! Whooray for the mountain-men!" This added to the exasperation of the Frenchman, causing him to strike wilder than before; and I found no difficulty in repeating my former thrust.

It was now a sure hit; and after a few passes I thrust my adversary for the third time, drawing blood.