frame active and massy, yet when measured with the Herculean size of the
Dead Boxer, he appeared to have no chance.

"Now," said he to the black, "by what rules are we to fight?"

"If you consult me," said the other, "perhaps it is best that every man
should fight as he pleases. You decide that. I am the challenger."

"Take your own way, then," said O'Rorke; "but you have a secret,
black--do you intend to use it?"

"Certainly, young fellow."

"I have my secret, too," said Lamh Laudher; "an' now I give you warning
that I will put it in practice."

"All fair; but we are losing time," replied the man of color, putting
himself in an attitude. "Come on."

Their seconds stood back, and both advanced to the middle of the stage.
The countenance of the black, and his huge chest, resembled rather
a colossal statue of bronze, than the bust of a human being. His eye
gleamed at Lamh Laudher with baleful flashes of intense hatred. The
spectators saw, however, that the dimensions of Lamh Laudher gained
considerably by his approximation to the black. The dusky color of the
Boxer added apparently to his size, whilst the healthful light which lay
upon the figure of his opponent took away, as did his elegance, grace,
and symmetry, from the uncommon breadth and fulness of his bust.

Several feints were made by the black, and many blows aimed, which Lamh