Blind to the blows that rained upon him, he eventually bore his staggering enemy by sheer onset and surprise to the earth.

Amidst the general alarm, the strength of half a dozen hastily summoned teachers was necessary to unlock his hold.
Even then he struggled to renew the conflict.

But his adversary had disappeared, and from that day forward Clarence was never again molested.
Seated before Father Sobriente in the infirmary, with swollen and bandaged face, and eyes that still seemed to see everything in the murky light of his own blood, Clarence felt the soft weight of the father's hand upon his knee.
"My son," said the priest gently, "you are not of our religion, or I should claim as a right to ask a question of your own heart at this moment.

But as to a good friend, Claro, a good friend," he continued, patting the boy's knee, "you will tell me, old Father Sobriente, frankly and truthfully, as is your habit, one little thing.

Were you not afraid ?" "No," said Clarence doggedly.