"It sounds easy enough," he said. "But take my word for it, I know what I
am talking about."

"Well, show me," said Ivan.

"I will some time," was the reply. "Right now we'll have to tie Nicolas
up and finish our sleep."

But when Nicolas had been safely secured, Ivan declared that he would not
go to sleep until he had proven to Chester just how easy it would be to
handle him.

"Well, all right, then," said Chester, "I'll show you. But remember,
don't you crack me too hard if you do happen to land."

Chester placed himself quickly in an attitude of defense, left arm
extended slightly, right arm well back. Crouching slightly and treading
on his toes, he stepped lightly around Ivan, who, with arms wide, waited
for him to come in.

Chester feinted quickly with his left and brought his right forward as he
stepped in close. The right fist bumped the giant's chin gently, for
Chester had not struck hard. A moment later his left landed almost in the
same spot, a trifle harder, and he escaped Ivan's rush and wild swing by
side-stepping nimbly.

There was a puzzled expression on Ivan's face as he followed the lad
about the cavern, Chester dancing nimbly first to this side and then
that. Once the lad let the giant come close, and when he swung, Chester