By the time Merriwell was well rubbed down one of the freshmen came in and reported that Diamond had come around all right.
"They're going to bring him in here and give him a rubbing," said the freshman.
Frank hastened to get into his clothes, in order that Diamond might have a chance. Rattleton had brushed the dirt and sawdust off those clothes, so they looked pretty well, and Merriwell showed no traces of what he had passed through when he stepped out of the little room.
Some of the boys were trying to induce Diamond to be rubbed down, but he objected, declaring he was going directly to his room. The blood had been washed from his face, and one or two cuts had been patched up with court-plaster, but his eyes were nearly closed, and he presented a pitiful appearance.
Frank hesitated a moment, and then he stepped up to his foe, saying in a manner most sincere:
"Old man, I am sorry this affair took place. I had the advantage, because I have taken boxing lessons, but you made a beautiful fight. I hold no hard feelings. Let's call it quits and shake."
Diamond's reply was to turn his back squarely on the proffered hand.
An additional flush arose to Merriwell's cheeks, and he dropped his hand by his side, turning away without another word.
A few moments later Diamond left the building, accompanied by a single companion, and that companion was not Roland Ditson.
Ditson remained behind, and he was among those who crowded about Frank Merriwell and offered congratulations.
"I was Diamond's second," said Roll, "but I am satisfied that the best man won. He is no match for you, Merriwell. I shouldn't have been his second, only he urged me to. I was glad to see you do him up."
He got hold of Frank's hand and held on, but received no friendly pressure in return. When he said he was glad that Merriwell did Diamond up Frank looked incredulous.
"As for me," said the victor, "I was sorry to have to do him up."
Somewhere about the place Rattleton had found an old floral decoration representing a harp. He brought it forward and presented it to Frank.
"Take it," he said. "You'll need it pretty soon. Your wings must be sprouting already!"
"It looks to me like a blasted lyre," said Merriwell. "You'd better give it to Ditson."