In the corner by the window, three officers with drawn swords, were defending themselves against the attacks of some twenty Greeks, armed with knives.

In the confusion, none had noticed the entry of the boys.
"Pick up a chair, Jack," Hawtry said, recoiling from the idea of rushing with his dirk upon unprepared men.
The two lads each seized one of the strong, but light, chairs scattered on the floor, and, with a sudden hurrah, flung themselves upon the Greeks.

Two or three of these were knocked down and the rest, taken by surprise by the sudden attack, recoiled, and the boys were speedily by the side of the assailed officers.
The Greeks drew back, but seeing how slight was the reinforcement, again advanced to the attack.

Three of their number lay upon the ground, and several of the others were bleeding freely.

Upon the other hand, one of the officers leant against the wall, badly wounded, while both of the others had received nasty cuts.