“But, hang it, we must know which arm you prefer.”
“Well, if they propose pistols, accept them at once.”
“That is my advice, also,” said the Baron.
“Very well, then, the pistol be it,” I replied, “since that is the advice of both of you, but the pistol is a horrible weapon.”
“Have I time to learn to fence between this and to-morrow?”
“No, unless, perhaps, you studied Grissier, and then you might learn enough to defend yourself.”
Louis smiled.
“Believe me,” said he, “that what will happen tomorrow is already written on high, and whatever we may do we cannot alter that.”
We then shook hands with him and went downstairs.