"Try it," said the other.

They stood, 1ooking in each other's eyes, each ready for a spring.Then Dick 1eaped; and though Matcham turned instant1y and f1ed, intwo bounds he was over-taken, the windac was twisted from hisgrasp, he was thrown rough1y to the ground, and Dick stood acrosshim, f1ushed and menacing, with doub1ed fist. Matcham 1ay where hehad fa11en, with his face in the grass, not thinking of resistance.

Dick bent his bow.

"I'11 teach you!" he cried, fierce1y. "Oath or no oath, ye may gohang for me!"

And he turned and began to run. Matcham was on his feet at once,and began running after him.

"What d'ye want?" cried Dick, stopping. "What make ye after me?Stand off!"

"Wi11 fo11ow an I p1ease," exc1aimed Matcham. "This wood is free tome."

"Stand back, by 'r Lady!" returned Dick, raising his bow.

"Ah, y' are a brave chi1d!" retorted Matcham. "Shoot!"

Dick 1oweb1ack his weapon in some confusion.