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 at thee—Down thou goest an thou wert Goliath of Gath in his brazen helmet."

The Friar bared his brawny arm up to the elbow, and giving his full strength to the blow, gave the knight a buffet that might have felled an ox. But his adversary stood firm as a rock. A loud shout was uttered by all the yeomen around.

"Now, Priest," said the knight, pulling off his gauntlet, "if I had vantage on my head, I will have none on my hand—stand fast as a true man."

"Genam meam dedi vapulatori—I have given my cheek to the smiter," said the Priest; "an thou canst stir me from the spot, fellow, I will give thee the Jew's ransom."

So spoke the burley Priest, assuming, on his part, high defiance. But who may resist his fate? The buffet of the knight was given with such strength and good will, that the Friar rolled head over heels upon the plain, to the great amazement of all the spectators. But he arose neither angry nor crest-fallen.

"Brother," said he to the knight, "thou