But here the causeway was so narrow that while their strength lasted, two men were as good as twenty, nor, because of the mud and water, could they be got at from either side.

So after all it was but two to two, and the brethren were the better two.

Their long swords flashed and smote, and when Wulf's was lifted again, once more it shone red as it had been when he tossed it high in the sunlight, and a man fell with a heavy splash into the waters of the creek, and wallowed there till he died.

Godwin's foe was down also, and, as it seemed, sped.
Then, at a muttered word, not waiting to be attacked by others, the brethren sprang forward.

The huddled mob in front of them saw them come, and shrank back, but before they had gone a yard, the swords were at work behind.