Zorro Rides Again - Heavy Hilt

He remained propped against the wall, the gag in place, his hands behind his back. He was feverish to spring up, get his sword, escape from the presidio, but held himself in check, waiting for the proper moment.

Don Esteban lurched to the table to fill the wine goblet once more, turning from Zorto to do so. Zorro tore off the gag and sprang to his feet.

He darted lightly across to the table and seized his sword.

"Ha, señor!" he cried, almost in Don Esteban's ear.

Don Esteban gave a screech of surprise and turned swiftly, so swiftly that he tottered and was off balance. He fumbled for his sword. But the heavy hilt of Zorro's weapon crashed against the side of his head, and he swayed and collapsed to the floor.

Through the adjoining room Zorro dashed, to leave the building the same way he had entered it.


- Zorro Rides Again, Chapter 16