The results obtained rendered a just decision difficult.

It seemed, however, that in the end armour-plate would have to give way to projectiles.

Nevertheless, competent men had their doubts.

At the latest experiments the cylindro-conical shots of Barbicane had no more effect than pins upon Nicholl's armour-plate.

That day the forger of Philadelphia believed himself victorious, and henceforth had nothing but disdain for his rival.