“Morbleu!” cried Philippe, “open the gate to me!”
“Pardon, monsieur,” said Charny, “but you acknowledged my right to be first.”
“Then be quick, for I am in a hurry to begin.”
“I wished to try other methods before resorting to this, for I am not much more fond of inflicting a caning than M. Reteau is of receiving one; but as he prefers it to fighting, he shall be satisfied;” and a cry from Reteau soon announced that Charny had begun.
The noise soon attracted old Aldegonde, who joined her voice to her master’s.
Charny minded one no more than the other; at last, however, he stopped, tired with his work.
“Now have you finished, sir?” said Philippe.
“Yes.”
“Then pray return me my sword, and let me in.”
“Oh, no, monsieur!” implored Reteau, who hoped for a protector in the man who had finished with him.