He bustled in
with the quiet air of possession with which the ring master enters the
circus.
"It's Mr. Stapleton, the referee from London," said Wilson.
"How do you do, Mr. Stapleton? I was introduced to you at the big fight
at the Corinthian Club in Piccadilly."
"Ah! I dare say," said the other, shaking hands. "Fact is, I'm
introduced to so many that I can't undertake to carry their names.
Wilson, is it? Well, Mr. Wilson, glad to see you. Couldn't get a fly
at the station, and that's why I'm late."
"I'm sure, sir," said Armitage, "we should be proud that anyone so well
known in the boxing world should come down to our little exhibition."
"Not at all. Not at all. Anything in the interests of boxin'. All
ready? Men weighed?"
"Weighing now, sir."
"Ah! Just as well that I should see it done. Seen you before, Craggs.
Saw you fight your second battle against Willox. You had beaten him
once, but he came back on you. What does the indicator say--163lbs.--
two off for the kit--161lbs. Now, my lad, you jump. My goodness, what
colours are you wearing?"
"The Anonymi Cricket Club."
"What right have you to wear them? I belong to the club myself."
"So do I."
"You an amateur?"
"Yes, sir."
"And you are fighting for a money prize?"
"Yes.
Pages:
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134