To the stranger's confident smile, Ben-Hur opposed an earnestness which, had his skill been known, would have been accepted fair warning of danger.

Both knew the combat was to be mortal.
Ben-Hur feinted with his right hand.

The stranger warded, slightly advancing his left arm.

Ere he could return to guard, Ben-Hur caught him by the wrist in a grip which years at the oar had made terrible as a vise.

The surprise was complete, and no time given.