They conferred together for several minutes, when Simpson deposited the bundle of kites in the arms of one of his gang and stepped forward.
"Come on, then," he said, at the same time pulling off his coat.
Joe handed his to Fred, and sprang toward Brick.

They put up their fists and faced each other.

Almost instantly Simpson drove in a fierce blow and ducked cleverly away and out of reach of the blow which Joe returned.

Joe felt a sudden respect for the abilities of his antagonist, but the only effect upon him was to arouse all the doggedness of his nature and make him utterly determined to win.
Awed by the presence of the fireman, Simpson's followers confined themselves to cheering Brick and jeering Joe.

The two boys circled round and round, attacking, feinting, and guarding, and now one and then the other getting in a telling blow.