"I say: this is more sensible than for us two to fight now." "Think so ?" "Yes: oh yes; only, of course, our fight has to come.

Yes, when these people are cleared off." "We can't have three sets of enemies," said Ralph gravely; "and I can't help thinking that if we do not act, they will get more and more daring, and drive us out." "Pooh!" said Mark defiantly.
"Ah, I laughed at the idea at first; but they might take Cliff Castle or Black Tor by surprise some night." "Well, they might take Cliff Castle," said Mark, in rather a contemptuous tone, "but not the Black Tor.

And they shan't even try to take either," he added quickly, as if repenting his words.

"We'll surprise them, and to-night." "One moment," said Ralph.

"We must be careful, for it's quite possible that some of the ruffians may be out on an expedition, and if we met them in the dark, it might cause a serious mistake." "We'll settle all that when we meet," said Mark.