ce the books with Flemming."

Fred forced a scornful laugh.

"A very fine speech!" he cried. "I assure you, Merriwell, you shall have
the opportunity to square matters. I could wish something somewhat more
businesslike than a mere wrestling match, but that may come later--if
you have as much nerve as you wish persons to think you possess. To
begin with, I'll show you that I spoke the truth when I said you know
nothing of the art of wrestling. I am satisfied to have Hugh Heffiner
for judge and referee."

Merriwell had chosen Heffiner because he knew Hugh was a square man, and
they were not at all chummy, so he could not be accused of having
selected a person who would favor him. Heffiner was in the gymnasium,
and had been attracted by the struggle between Merriwell and Diamond, so
he had overheard all that passed between Frank and Fred.

Diamond was standing at one side, his arms folded, a look of
satisfaction on his face. For all of Flemming's reputation as a
wrestler, Diamond felt sure that Merriwell was making no false moves. He
knew Frank too well to think he would deliberately challenge his enemy
to wrestle without feeling certain of his own ability to accomplish his
defeat.

Flemming was eager for the struggle, while Merriwell was calm and
deliberate in his movements. Flemming's friends gathered about him,
giving him advice.

Then Frank was not a little astonished to find Tad Horner at his side,
and heard the little junior say:

"Look here, Merriwell, I want you to understand that I am not your
enemy, although appearances may be against me."

"You were one of the Flemming gang at Jackson's."

"I acknowledge it but with shame," said Tad, and, to Frank's surprise,
the little fellow colored deeply. "At the same time, you will remember
that I did not lift a hand against you. You are a white man, Merriwell,
and I think you all right."

Frank was impressed by Tad's sincerity.

"Thank you," he said. "It is not necessary for every fellow who dislikes
me to be a rascal. I am sure that all of Flemming's friends are not
rascals. It is quite probable that a great many honest fellows think me
in the wrong, but I am glad to know that you, who were present at
Jackson's, do not think so."

Tad retired, quite satisfied with this. He had long admired Merriwell,
and he felt it his duty to come out on this occasion and express himself
openly. He did not mind that Flemming and his friends regarded him with
anger and sco