The Mississippian, as light on his feet as a leopard, leaped away and countered with his left, a blow so quick and hard that Dick, although he threw his head to one side, caught a part of its force just above his ear.

But, guarding himself, he sprang back, while Woodville faced him, laughing lightly.
Dick shook his head a little and the singing departed.

Just above his ear he felt a great soreness, but he was cool now.

Moreover, he was losing his anger.
"First blow for you," he said.

"I see that you know how to use your fists." "I hope to prove it." Woodville, stepping lightly on his toes and feinting with his left, caught Dick on his cheek bone with his right.