Once more Giovanni pressed upon Del Ferice, and Del Ferice broke ground.

In answer to a quick feint, Giovanni made a round parry and a sharp short lunge in tierce.
"Halt!" yelled Casalverde.

Old Saracinesca sprang in, and Giovanni lowered his weapon.

But Casalverde did not interpose his sword.

A full two seconds after the cry to halt, Del Ferice lunged right forward.
Giovanni thrust out his arm to save his body from the foul attempt--he had not time to raise his weapon.