compelled him to drop it.

"What do you mean by that, you loafer?" demanded Peter, his eyes blazing
with anger.

"To stop your fun, if that's what you call it."

"I've a good mind to give you a thrashing."

Gilbert put himself in a position of defense.

"Sail in, if you want to!" he responded.

"Help me, Simon!" said Peter. "You grab his legs, and I'll upset him."

Simon, who, though younger, was braver than Peter, without hesitation
followed directions. He threw himself on the ground and grasped Gilbert
by the legs, while Peter, doubling up his fists, made a rush at his
enemy. But Gilbert, swiftly eluding Simon, struck out with his right
arm, and Peter, unprepared for so forcible a defense, tumbled over on
his back, and Simon ran to his assistance.

Gilbert put himself on guard, expecting a second attack; but Peter
apparently thought it wiser to fight with his tongue.

"You rascal!" he shrieked, almost foaming at the mouth; "I'll have you
arrested."

"What for?" asked Gilbert, coolly.