On the other hand, Alleyne had used his weapons in constant exercise and practice for every day for many months, and being by nature quick of eye and prompt of hand, he might pass now as no mean swordsman.
A strangely opposed pair they appeared as they approached each other: Tranter dark and stout and stiff, with hairy chest and corded arms, Alleyne a model of comeliness and grace, with his golden hair and his skin as fair as a woman's.

An unequal fight it seemed to most; but there were a few, and they the most experienced, who saw something in the youth's steady gray eye and wary step which left the issue open to doubt.
"Hold, sirs, hold!" cried Norbury, ere a blow had been struck.

"This gentleman hath a two-handed sword, a good foot longer than that of our friend." "Take mine, Alleyne," said Ford.
"Nay, friends," he answered, "I understand the weight and balance of mine own.

To work, sir, for our lord may need us at the abbey!" Tranter's great sword was indeed a mighty vantage in his favor.

He stood with his feet close together, his knees bent outwards, ready for a dash inwards or a spring out.