A regular ring had been roped off, and the men entered from opposite sides at a signal.

Much to his disgust, Kelley was not allowed to take any part in the affair.
Both lads were stripped to the waist.

Merriwell was clean limbed, but muscular, while Browning was stocky and solid.

The sophomore had gotten rid of his superfluous flesh in a wonderful manner, and he looked to be a hard man to tackle.
The gloves were put on, and then the rivals advanced and shook hands.

An instant later they were at it, and the decisive struggle between them had begun.
Their movements were so rapid that it was difficult for the eyes of the eager spectators to follow them.