They were not ill-matched. Both were big
men, both of gigantic strength, both skilled swordsmen. But the
Highlander had by far the greater experience of duelling; it was, in
fact, the pride of his life to pick a quarrel and to slay his
antagonist. Moreover, he had his target, which was of immense assistance
in warding off blows; and Ringan had no guard other than his sword,
which fact, in itself, made the combat unequal. And, to crown all, the
Highlander was infinitely the fresher. But the dour, fiery, old Border
blood had brought Ringan to this pass, when he was in no way fit to
fight, and, whatever the cost, he must now go through with it.
So to it they fell. Long they fought, and fiercely, till the breath came
hard-drawn and short, and the red blood ran fast from both combatants.
Only, the Highlander was less distressed than Ringan, his wounds fewer
and less serious. Still, they kept on without pause, till to the fierce
joy of the Highland onlookers, and the dull misery of others, it became
quite plain that Ringan's time had come. Human nature could do no more;
he was beaten, and was being driven slowly back and back, his defence
each minute getting less vigorous and confident, his attack less to be
dreaded. Loud rang the exulting Gaelic yells to Rory to finish him, to
"give his flesh to the eagles.
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