"I can take care of myself, and I'll fight him." Alvarez laughed derisively and the others echoed the laugh of their master, but Paul held up his own sword, also, until it glittered in the light.

Every nerve and muscle became taut, and the blood went back from his brain, leaving it cool and clear.
"Come on," he said to Alvarez.

"I'm ready." They stood in a level glade, and the two faced each other, the sunshine lighting up all the area enclosed by the cypresses.

Around them stood Braxton Wyatt and the followers of Alvarez.
FOOTNOTES: [Footnote B: It is probable that the bluff, indicated by Paul, is the one on which the present city of Memphis stands.].