At that moment they were startled by a boisterous laugh close beside them, and the fellow calling himself Count Calli slapped Max on the back, saying in French:-- "Nicely done, my boy, nicely done.

But you are far too considerate.

Why kiss a lady's hand when her lips are so near?
I will show you, Fraeulein Castleman, exactly how so delicate a transaction is conducted by an enterprising gentleman." He insultingly took hold of Yolanda, and, with evident intent to kiss her, tried to lift the veil with which she had hastily covered her face.
Max struck the fellow a blow that felled him to the ground, but Calli rose and, drawing his dagger, rushed upon Max.

Yolanda stood almost paralyzed with terror.

Max was unarmed, but he seized Calli's wrist and twisted it till a small bone cracked, and the dagger fell from his hand to the ground.