CHAPTER VIITHREE IN A ROW “Who are to be killed first?” asked Nick Carter, when they had been looking into the amphitheater for some minutes. “Well,” returned Lord Slava, “the first three are malefactors who deserve no better fate. But after that comes the challenge.” “What challenge?” burst out the inquisitive Patsy. “According to custom, there must be a challenge before any person of high degree may be put to death. The next victim on the list is the wife of that man who ran amuck in the street and whom you saw slain this morning.” “A woman?” exclaimed Chick, in horror. “Yes. But we are determined to save her if we can. So, after the challenge, in the pause before she is brought in, I will give you the signal,” said Lord Slava, addressing Nick Carter. “But what is the challenge?”