180 THE BARONET 



some sawdust, and then come and see 

 that Mumford has fair play. Mr. C. will 

 take care of me." 



"Yes, Stephen," replied the butcher, 

 "and then see me give your master a 

 lesson. I'll serve him out." 



Stephen put on one of his arch grins ; he 

 presently returned with the sawdust, which 

 having strewed, he retired to a corner. 



The Baronet leisurely took off his coat 

 and waistcoat ; which having carefully de- 

 posited, he divested himself of his cravat, 

 &c. He advanced to meet his antagonist, 

 who stood with his arms up, ready to re- 

 ceive him ; but a ferocious glance of his 

 dark eye seemed to confound or disarm the 

 butcher, who received a blow right through 

 his guard that laid him prostrate. Stephen 

 picked him up. In the next minute, but 

 little daunted, he endeavoured to close 

 with the Baronet, who exhibited first-rate 

 strength and science in keeping him at a 

 distance, parrying his blows with his left, 



